In Dubai, there is really a culture of respect for individual preferences. In some other countries, sadly, going against the norm can often result in ridicule and shaming.
For example, when dining, nobody judges whether you order a medium-rare or well-done steak. Nobody shames you if you order a salad at McDonald’s. Even if your coffee is from the gas station and not Starbucks, everyone respects our different choices.
Heck, no one bats an eye if I eat my chicken with bare hands. (I grew up with people who had to use the plastic spoon and fork when eating fried chicken at fast food restaurants. At pag nagkamay ka, “nakakahiya!”)
In Dubai, everyone’s choices are respected without a hint of mockery.
People respect differences
One time, I was having dinner with a group, and I was the only Filipino. When the steak was served, two people at my table asked if it was not cooked well because they do not eat undercooked meat. They don’t even know the level of doneness. One of them said it was a personal preference, while the other simply didn’t want to give it a try. Everyone at that table respected their preferences without any “you’re missing out on life” comments or reservations.
At another team dinner, someone did not order sushi because it had raw fish. No ifs, no buts. No one ridiculed him for his choice.
Another experience with an Italian friend: while they ‘denounce’ pineapples on pizza (it’s a big no-no), they never looked down on those who relished Hawaiian pizza. It’s a typical joke with the Italians, but they do not resort to calling out people.
In my uncountable dine-outs with people from different nationalities, I’ve consistently observed how open people are about their food preferences, even if they don’t align with the norm. What’s so nice is how others respond with acceptance and understanding without resorting to judgment or shaming.
At work, I often see people enjoying salads for lunch while sitting next to others indulging in Big Macs, and they’re all having a good time together. Their camaraderie is not defined by their food choices.
This is one reason that makes this city a pleasant place to live. Contrary to some other cultures, where your personal choices are often subject to unwarranted criticism, whether it’s your food preference, clothing style, or even lifestyle decisions.
OR… did I just happen to belong to a good circle of non-judgmental people?
Could be.
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Photo from pexels.
