Is Bartenders in Dubai Sexually Harassed?

Dubai, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, is known for its lavish lifestyle, luxurious hotels, and thriving nightlife. Among the many jobs in the hospitality industry, bartending is one of the most sought-after roles. However, working as a bartender in Dubai can come with its own challenges, including the issue of sexual harassment. This article explores whether bartenders in Dubai face sexual harassment, the factors contributing to it, and what can be done to address this issue.

The Role of a Bartender in Dubai

Bartenders in Dubai work in high-end hotels, bars, and clubs that cater to both locals and tourists. Their responsibilities include mixing and serving drinks, maintaining a clean and organized bar, and creating a welcoming environment for customers. Dubai’s nightlife is vibrant, with many bars and clubs open until the early hours of the morning, making bartenders an essential part of the entertainment industry.

While the job can be rewarding and fun, it also comes with a set of challenges. The nature of the work, which involves close interactions with customers, sometimes exposes bartenders to inappropriate behavior, including sexual harassment.

What is Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?

Sexual harassment in the workplace is any unwanted or inappropriate behavior of a sexual nature. It can include verbal harassment, physical contact, or suggestive comments. For bartenders, this often takes the form of rude remarks, inappropriate touching, or customers making sexual advances.

While Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, it still adheres to traditional values, especially when it comes to public conduct and behavior. However, in nightlife settings, the relaxed atmosphere can sometimes blur the line of acceptable behavior.

Do Bartenders in Dubai Face Sexual Harassment?

The question of whether bartenders in Dubai face sexual harassment is complex. Like in many other cities, bartenders in Dubai sometimes encounter customers who cross the line. However, because Dubai is a city with strict laws, especially concerning public behavior and harassment, many victims of harassment fear reporting incidents. They may worry about facing legal or social consequences, especially in a city where certain types of behavior are heavily scrutinized.

One of the main challenges in addressing sexual harassment is the lack of a clear mechanism for bartenders to report such incidents. Many bars and hotels do not have proper support systems or policies in place for addressing harassment complaints. In some cases, bartenders may feel that speaking up could cost them their job, as they rely on tips and a steady income from their employment.

The Role of Management in Preventing Harassment

Some establishments in Dubai are proactive in preventing harassment by creating a safe work environment for their staff. This includes offering training on appropriate behavior, implementing clear anti-harassment policies, and encouraging bartenders to speak up if they feel uncomfortable.

However, not all workplaces in Dubai have these measures in place. The responsibility falls on both the employer and the employee to maintain professionalism and ensure a harassment-free workplace.

Read Also: Top Benefits of Bartender Job in Dubai

Snoopy Circle: A Positive Step Towards Safety

Snoopy Circle is a community-driven initiative that aims to protect bartenders and other hospitality workers from harassment in Dubai. The organization provides a platform where bartenders can share their experiences, offer advice, and support each other in a safe and confidential environment. Through this initiative, bartenders can also report incidents of harassment and get advice on how to handle such situations.

Snoopy Circle not only raises awareness about the issue of sexual harassment but also works towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for bartenders in Dubai. It helps foster a culture where bartenders do not feel alone in dealing with harassment and can take collective action to address these problems.

In conclusion, while bartenders in Dubai may face instances of sexual harassment, efforts like those of the Snoopy bartender community and other organizations can provide support and solutions. It's important for both employers and employees to work together to create a safer environment where bartenders can do their jobs without fear of harassment or exploitation. Only through awareness, community support, and proper training can this issue be properly addressed and eliminated from the hospitality industry.