Emirati Etiquette · Lesson 7 of 8 · 8 min

Titles and forms of address in the UAE

In the Gulf, titles signal family, rank and public office. Using them correctly is a mark of good upbringing.

Common titles

Sheikh (men) and Sheikha (women): members of ruling families and some tribal leaders. Use the title with the full name: 'Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid'.
Note that 'Al Shaikh' can be a family name rather than a title.
His/Her Excellency (HE): ministers, senior officials and ambassadors.
Your Highness: used when speaking to a Ruler; after the first address, 'Your Highness' or 'Sir'.
In writing: 'His Highness Sheikh [full name], Ruler of [Emirate]'.
Doctor (Dr): people with a PhD or medical degree.

Everyday respect

Address older people you don't know formally until invited otherwise.
Many families use respectful kinship terms for elders who are not relatives, such as 'Ammi' (uncle) or 'Khalti' (aunt). Follow your family's custom.
When unsure, listen to how others address the person and follow their lead.

Practise in real life

Tick each one off when you have done it.

Find the correct title and full name of your emirate's Ruler and write the formal written form.
Ask your parents which respectful terms your family uses for elders who are not relatives.

Remember

Sheikh/Sheikha + full name.
HE for ministers and ambassadors.
Your Highness for Rulers.
Formal until invited otherwise.

Note: The forms-of-address details come from Oxford Business Group, The National and formsofaddress.info rather than an official UAE protocol office. The kinship-term point is general cultural practice.

Check yourself

1. How do you address an ambassador in writing?

2. How is a UAE Ruler addressed in speech?

3. Is 'Al Shaikh' always a title?

4. A minister is styled: