- Dubai Visa Guide
- On 14.04.2025
- Rupali Tanwar
Cultural Differences and Similarities Between Dubai and India

A rich history, vibrant culture and diverse traditions are common to both Dubai and India. Dubai, a modern city in the UAE, is known for its opulence and glamour, while India, a vast country, is known for its vibrant heritage. While in many ways, Dubai and India are different, there are some cultural similarities as well. Form a better understanding of these two places by studying their contrasts and connections.
Before delving into the details of Dubai Vs. India cultural differences and similarities, let’s look into a basic requirement of travelling to Dubai from India—a visa.
Dubai Visa from India
Indian citizens have the option of applying for a Dubai visa from India through dubaivisitvisa.in. The most commonly issued visas are the 14, 30 days Dubai visa and 90-day tourist visas. Certain documents are needed when applying for a visa. These are:
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A passport that’s valid for at least six months
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A passport-sized photo with a white background taken recently
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A copy of return tickets
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Hotel bookings
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Proof of sufficient funds being available
The processing time for a Dubai visa is usually 3-5 working days. Additional documents may be needed for business or transit visa Dubai. We suggest that you apply at least a week before you plan to travel so you have enough time in hand if there are any unexpected delays. In order to get hassle free visa services, make sure you get in touch with our experts today!
The Differences and Similarities in Culture Between Dubai and India
Now that we know about the visa formalities, let’s see how Dubai and India show both cultural similarities as well as differences.
Language and Communication
The difference in language between Dubai and India is one of the most noticeable. In Dubai, the official language is Arabic, but English is also widely used, especially in business communication and daily interactions. On the other hand, with 22 official languages including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil and Telugu, India is a multilingual country. English is a commonly used language, especially in educational and professional environments. To enter the country, you should know the different types of visit visa from India and get the best one.
Despite the differences in language, effective communication is valued in both cultures. Depending on the region, people in India greet each other with “Namaste”. Greetings like “As-Salaam-Alaikum” are common among Arabs in Dubai, and politeness is valued in both cultures. One must mention the language of Urdu here that’s widely spoken in India, which has strong Arabic influences.
Religious Beliefs and Practices
While the role of religion in the lives of the people in both India and Dubai is important, the dominant religions differ. In Dubai, Muslims are the predominant religious community and Islamic practices are followed widely here. People pray five times daily in Dubai, and they fast during the holy month of Ramadan. Islamic festivals like Eid-Al-Fitr and Eid-Al-Adha are celebrated with much fervour in Dubai.
On the other hand, India is a secular country with great diversity in the religions practiced here. While Hinduism is the most commonly practiced religion here, there are many followers of Islam, Sikhism, Buddhism, Christianity and Jainism. The diversity in the practice of religions in India finds reflection in the many religious festivals of India like Diwali, Holi, Christmas, Gurpurab, and Navratri.
While there are differences, there’s a great respect for religious practices in both cultures. In both Dubai and India, there’s a tolerance and brotherly feeling among people of different faiths. As such, both Dubai and India have a multicultural environment. Therefore, when we make a Dubai and India cultural comparison, we notice many signs of religious synergy marked by inter-faith bonhomie. To observe all these beliefs and religious stuff, you can easily apply for a 60 days Dubai visa today!
Food and Cuisine
The culinary traditions in both Dubai and India are rich, and food is a major part of the cultural identity of both. The cuisine in Dubai is marked by a strong influence of the Middle East, Asia and the West. Dishes like shawarma, kebabs and hummus are the local favourites, while Indian and Pakistani food are also popular, owing to the large presence of the two communities in Dubai. However, to experiene all these, you have to apply for a Dubai visa. Moreover, check which visa is best for Dubai from India and apply for the right one.
There’s incredible diversity in Indian cuisine,e and the regional specialities are different between states. There’s an amazingly wide range of ingredients and flavours in Indian food, which is evident in the myriad dishes served here right from the south’s spicy curries to the north’s rich butter chicken. Street food is also very popular in India, with the favourites being pani puri, vada pav and samosas.
Hospitality is valued in both cultures, and bonding occurs through the sharing of meals. In Dubai, gathering for communal meals during special occasions is common. In India too, food brings people together and families gather to share traditional dishes, especially on special occasions.
Conclusion
While Dubai and India are culturally different in many ways, you’ll still notice a strong Indian cultural influence in Dubai, especially during the celebration of Diwali. Similarly, Dubai’s cuisine has had a strong influence on India with shawarma being a popular dish being served in India as well these days. Both places respect diversity, and when we understand the similarities and differences in culture between the two places, we can appreciate their beauty more. To get into the city, you must apply for 60 days Dubai visit visa and get the visa free experience.
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