Unique signals of sexuality

I recently returned from a holiday in Dubai. What a fascinating place! The mixture of the local Emiratis, only making up only 20% of the population, the large amount of low-wage labourers, mostly made up of Indians and Pakistanis, and the ex-pat contingency, consisting of Brits, Aussies, and a few North Americans, makes for an interesting mix of culture.

Each of these cultures, has their own style of flirting, and, the locals would have a different idea as to what flirting is then the ex-pats. In fact, 'flirting' seems to have a disreputable reputation in Dubai. Poor flirting is *so* misunderstood.

However, I noticed an interesting trend amongst the Emirati women(and I specify Emirati because saying 'Arab' women when referring to the women in one country would be like saying 'Europeans' when referring only to the French) is to wear very strong perfumes. Which, I can only assume, is a way to still show their femininity, beneath a long, black, cloak. Because most of their body and hair is covered, thereby eliminating the traditional way that women have embodied their womanliness, Emirati have found other ways, even if it's less obvious. This includes perfectly manicured and pedicured digits, as well as flashes of fabulous jewelry beneath the burkas.

This shows us that just as there is no obvious formula to flirting, signals of sexuality also differ according to context. But, if you look closely, it's always there.