DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, (AP) – The United Arab Emirates wants its citizens to respect local laws including bans on face veils while traveling abroad.
The National newspaper reports Monday that the country has launched an awareness campaign for Emirati travelers. Thousands of fliers are being handed out advising citizens not to carry too much cash and providing tips on dealing with airport body scans.
A ministry official says Emirati authorities are concentrating on face veils, reminding Emiratis that “every country has its laws” that must be respected. France banned full face veils last month.
The UAE has liberal dress codes, but most Emirati women wear traditional black coverings, called abayas, in public. Some also choose to cover their faces.