To Hold or Not to Hold

It must be said that I am breaking all the rules. No not rules, laws—those things punishable by jail time. Even the best goodie-two-shoes can find themselves in the slammer in Dubai. Ok maybe not “in the slammer” but definitely not in good graces with the local Emirates.

I was once again reminded of my heathen Western actions this morning as the local newspaper reminded me that handholding in Dubai is deemed “inappropriate behavior.” I confess; I am an avid hand holder, an action that is punishable by a fine or eek…prison time!

Now I have broken some rules before in the US (I’ll never tell!), but I also had the right to a lawyer and a speedy trial. I’m not too sure how the jail process is here, but getting your license is hassle enough for me to know I don’t want to be there.

Now let’s not go overboard—usually if you get caught being immoral in Dubai it is because you are WAY out of line (anyone remember the sex on the beach scandal?) I do these acts of indignity within reason and always on the down low. In addition, 95% of the time your punishment is a severe warning by the police or an extremely dirty look from a local.

Overall, I have great respect for the local culture and tradition of the UAE and feel that they have every right to protect what is important to them. I would if the situation were reversed! I have donned the veil on many occasions and will still only wear my “beach apparel” to the beach and not the mall. I know there are locals there—and I would just feel rude and out of line. But on the other hand, I value hand holding and will continue to do so within reason.

You just can’t have it all, but you can try.