31 Dec 2025
Business Lunch Etiquette in Dubai: Do’s and Don’ts
Business lunch deals Dubai etiquette is not about a thousand rules one should remember. It is about some major concepts that provide respect and keep the focus where it belongs, on the work.
The general principle is easy to grasp: combine international professionalism and local sensitivity. That's it. This is the way that actually looks on the ground.
Get the Tone Right First.
Dubai runs on relationships. So the first 10-15 minutes? That's not wasted time. It's essential. Enquire about the trip, the family, the weekend. Get the discussion going then slip into the agenda. It matters.
Respect hierarchy. The pace is normally dictated by the senior individual. Allow them to take the first discussion, allow them to choose the seat, allow them to take their cue when it is high time to start the business. It is not about talking but observation.
The Practical Do's.
- Be on time. Traffic is the universal excuse, but don't rely on it. Arriving late has a bad effect on the very beginning.
- Choose food that is neat to eat. Do not touch anything that is messy, saucy, or needs a wrestling match to eat. You are here to talk, not to do a lobster surgery.
- Alcohol consumption should depend on the host's behavior. If he doesn't order a drink, you don't either. If he does, one is enough. This is a business meeting, not a nightclub.
- Put your phone away. Face down on the table isn't "away." In your pocket or bag is away. Glancing at it screams disinterest.
The Simple Don'ts.
- Don't talk about politics, religion, or overly personal money. Simply, do not. The risk is not worth it.
- No sharing of the bill. The one who invited is the one who pays. If you are the guest, then a nice "please, let me get this" is polite, however you should not insist. If you are the host, then take care of the check quietly and without drawing attention to it.
- Do not be in a hurry. Always let the conversation take its natural course even if you have time limit. Pushing for a hurried finish feels dismissive.
- Don't use your left hand for passing. A small thing, but noticed. Use your right hand to pass dishes, the bread basket, or a document.
Tipping & The Wrap-Up.
Check the bill. Many places add a service charge. If it's there, you're covered. If service was exceptional, adding 5-10% in cash on the table is a good gesture.
In the end, it is simply this: pick a restaurant that facilitates this. A place that is tranquil, with considerable distance between tables, where the service is efficient and not intrusive. A calm environment does half the etiquette work for you.
Get these basics right, and you won't just have a lunch. You'll build trust. And in Dubai, that's the whole point.
