Public behavior is generally conservative, so men and women should dress modestly, avoid overt displays of affection, and be mindful of physical contact with the opposite sex unless it is clearly appropriate. In everyday settings and especially in more traditional areas, gender segregation can still matter in family spaces, mosques, and some social gatherings, while in cosmopolitan cities like
Dubai and Abu Dhabi the rules are often applied more flexibly but modesty and respect remain important.