DO'S:

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1. Choose the right license type
   Mainland? Free zone? Offshore? Choose wisely - it's like picking your Hogwarts house, but with tax implications.

2. Research your market
   Don’t try selling snow to camels. Know your target audience, their needs, and the competition.

3. Partnering with a local sponsor (if needed)
   If you're setting up a mainland business, you’ll need a local Emirati partner (aka “sponsor”) owning 51% - unless the sector is fully foreign-owned.

4. Open a local business bank account
   Bring your paperwork, and we do mean all of it - no, more than that. Now double it. now you're ready.

5. Stay compliant
   VAT? Labor laws? Licensing renewals? Keep up with the rules. Dubai loves entrepreneurs who play by the book.

6. Network like a pro
   Coffee meetings, business breakfasts, LinkedIn schmoozing — connections matter more than you think.

7. Dress the part
   It’s a city where appearance says a lot about your business vibe so - be sharp, modest & confident !

8. Respect the working hours (and prayer times)
   Meetings during Friday prayer? Hard pass. Also, summer timings can shift - especially for outdoor workers.

9. Take advantage of government support
   Dubai LOVES innovation. Check out programs like Dubai SME and Dubai Future Foundation for help.

10. Keep your visa status updated
    No one wants to be that person who overstayed their welcome. Keep it tidy and more importantly legal.

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 DON'TS:

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1. Don’t assume one-size-fits-all for business licenses
   Each activity has a specific license. Consultancy? Coaching? Import/export? Do your homework.

2. Don’t operate without proper approvals
   Running a business without a license here is like skydiving without a parachute - risky and illegal.

3. Don’t underestimate cultural etiquette in business
   Respect titles, handshakes, and hierarchy. And when in doubt, a little extra formality goes a long way.

4. Don’t ignore public holidays
   Things will close - especially during Eid or National Day. Plan ahead.

5. Don’t skip the Arabic version of legal docs
   In legal matters, Arabic is the official language. Even if your docs are in English, ensure there’s an Arabic counterpart.

6. Don’t try to cut corners with employees
   Labor laws are strict. Contracts, insurance, and proper payment of wages are all mandatory.

7. Don’t be flaky with payments
   Late payments (especially to suppliers or landlords) can land you in hot water - even court.

8. Don’t overpromise and underdeliver
   Word spreads fast in the business community here. Your rep is everything.

9. Don’t forget to renew your trade license annually
   Missing it = fines, shutdowns & sad emojis.

10. Don’t post complaints or vent business frustrations online
    Social media rants can be seen as defamation. Keep it offline and professional. Nobody likes a fine or a court case.

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GENERAL DO’S & DON’TS WHILST INSIDE DUBAI

 

 DO'S:

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1. Dress modestly in public areas 
   Shoulders and knees covered, especially in malls or government buildings. Think classy, not beach party. This is especially important for women.

2. Use your “indoor voice” in public
   Loud arguments or shouting can cause drama you don’t want.

3. Respect Ramadan customs
   No eating, drinking, or chewing gum in public during daylight hours. You’ll find food courts behind curtains.

4. Stand when the national anthem plays
   Respect is huge here - you’ll see it played before movies in the cinema and other places.

5. Learn a few Arabic phrases
   A simple “Shukran” (thank you) goes a long way.

6. Smile and be polite
   It’s a friendly place. A little kindness can open big doors.

7. Use ride-hailing apps or taxis
   Public transport is good, but for convenience, Careem or Uber are your best buds.

8. Recycle and be mindful of the environment
   Sustainability is a big deal here now — Dubai is getting greener by the day.

9. Tip (when you feel like it)
   10-15% is appreciated, especially for great service, but not obligatory.

10. Enjoy the diversity
    Dubai is a mix of the whole world. Embrace the cultures, cuisines, and perspectives!

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 DON'TS:

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1. Don’t show public displays of affection
   Holding hands is fine (for married couples), but save the kissing and cuddling for private time.

2. Don’t be drunk in public
   Alcohol is fine in Dubai, but staggering out on the street? A big no-no.

3. Don’t swear or use rude gestures
   Even mild curse words can lead to fines or legal issues. Yes, seriously. so just be nice.

4. Don’t take photos of people without asking
   Especially women or families. It’s a privacy thing - and it’s taken seriously in Dubai.

5. Don’t insult Islam or the royal family
   Ever - Online, offline, anywhere. It’s not just rude, it’s illegal and will get you into trouble.

6. Don’t eat or drink on public transport
   Metro and buses are clean for a reason. Respect the rules.

7. Don’t talk politics or religion too openly
   Best left for private settings. Keep convos light and respectful.

8. Don’t live together unless married (officially)
   Laws have relaxed recently, but it’s still best to double-check your visa and housing status.

9. Don’t bring banned substances
   Even certain prescription meds (like codeine) can get you in trouble. Always carry a doctor's note.

10. Don’t forget where you are
    Dubai might feel like Vegas in the desert sometimes, but it's still the UAE — a deeply respectful and conservative society under all of the glam.

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 Bonus Pro Tip:

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When in doubt, ask a local or a long-time expat
They’ve been there, googled that, and survived all of the paperwork.

They’ll save you hours of time (and possibly hundreds in fines).

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