Potential problems
​
Norway, the way to the north. A land of fjords, taxes, and beautiful mountains. Planning on going, or just planning to meet a Norwegian? We’re giving you this handy guide to avoid the worst pitfalls. Please share it with anyone who has anything to do with Norwegians and Norway.
Tipping is allowed in Norway :
-
Service is included in your bill. It is common courtesy to round up your bill, but a tip of more than 10 per cent is just not normal. And the custom of tipping is not established in the UAE, although it is customary to tip in restaurants (around 5%), parking (5 dirhams) and other services such as taxis.
Don’t talk to Strangers :
-
Norwegian never talk to a stranger on the bus, on the train or on the tram. Emirates people doesn't mind talking to strangers just of courtesy.
Norway isn’t expensive :
-
For the people getting their wage from companies based in Norway, that is. As a tourist, it’s something entirely different. Don’t criticize, though, they won’t go for that. What goes on inside of your head is ok, but even if a Norwegian says something is expensive you shouldn’t agree. As they say in Star Wars: It’s a trap!
Unlike the UAE its an expensive country. In addition, UAE considered as 21 of 25 countries costly cities for expatriates.
Don’t mention the Swedes :
-
The Swedes kinda occupied Norway for 100 years (sort of) from 1814 to 1905. And after that, the Swedes beat Norway in almost everything from clothes to car-making and the Eurovision Song Contest. Until Norway found oil. Norwegians still see themselves as a little brother, and no – Norway is not a city in Sweden. Also In the UAE, when speaking about the countries of the area, you must say Arab Gulf states and not Persian Gulf states.
But do mention the War :
-
The second world war, that is. Norwegians like to tell stories of their exploits and how they fought bravely against the German occupation. Just nod and say that you’ve heard it was very impressive, and that the American president told the world to look to Norway.
​
Taxes Taxis are not allowed :
-
Taxis are so expensive that it may sometimes be cheaper to hire a car for the same distance. Try to look for public transport. Uber is illegal.Also, UAE does not have any enforce federal income tax legislation for general business.
Don’t wear shoes inside :
-
Take them off if you visit someone's private home. Remember clean socks. In a very twisted logic, it is socially accepted, in many parts of Norway, to wear socks in your sandals. It's similar to UAE, you must take them off and physical contact and giving objects with the left hand must be avoided. This hand is considered impure –it is the one used in the toilet. You should neither sit cross-legged pointed out toward the speaker nor showing the soles of the shoes, as this is thought to be a derogatory gesture.
​
Don't Try to Haggle :
-
Each item has a fixed price, so unless the item is damaged trying to bargain on price with the seller will only get a puzzled look. Unlike UAE, bargaining is acceptable and its an usually.
Keep Your Hands to Yourself :
-
There is little personal touching in public in Norway unless you are a really close friend or a member of the family - and even then, touching is kept to a minimum. A hearty handshake in greeting is expected, but a kiss is not. And in the UAE, The form of greeting is a short and soft handshake when you introduce yourself and when you leave. Among them, they bring noses together in a kiss on both cheeks.
​