Dubai: Expatriates and Emiratis have to make the effort socially to make Dubai successful, says a UAE commentator on socio-economic affairs.
Mishaal Al Gergawi says there are two types of expatriates: one comes here for a specific time and the other who settles for a while. The former has limited knowledge of UAE culture and sensitivities, but the latter considers the country home and hence has a much better understanding of the land.
The interpretation of the legal code, Al Gergawi points out, is not very clear. There is no differentiation between a kiss in greeting and a passionate one. "An emotional hug could offend someone, who then complains to police," he tells Gulf News.
As an Emirati, he is offended on seeing scantily clad women in malls. "What is appropriate clothing on the beach or an Italian restaurant is not in a mall, which is a mixed environment," he argues.
Cultural values
In defence of expatriates, Al Gergawi says some have made the effort to learn about the Emirati way of life, but programmes or organisations that help bridge the cultural gap are few in number. Moreover, given the large expatriate population, Emiratis, who are smaller in number, find it difficult to engage this vast section.
"Emiratis lead a classical way of life. We are tolerant, but we cannot embrace the liberal expatriate ethos. You have a way of life and I have mine. We will co-exist in a coffee shop and at work, yet we are distinct," he says.
Expatriates must not cross the line. While Emiratis are accommodating, expatriates too have a responsibility to adhere to a code of living.
"There is a section of expatriates that has been insensitive to Emirati cultural values. In a world of contradictions, people are getting along. But for Dubai to succeed, expatriates and Emiratis should make the effort socially," Al Gergawi stresses.
