Abu Dhabi & Singapore - is breastfeeding in public OK?

[misshoohaa]

Off to oz this weekend and flying Etihad, which means stops in Singapore and Abu Dhabi airports. Will it be acceptable to feed my son? He's 5 months old.

Thanks!

Not been to Singapore, but not a definitive answer - culturally I would feel very uncomfortable in public. I have never worn shorts or sleeveless tops outside of the hotel. It is more common to see the full burka in Abu Dhabi than the other emirates.

I would ask the airline it is a relaxed Muslim airline allowing alcohol, however, it is still Muslim with the direction of Mecca being avaliable throughout the flight. I would think the airline will accommodate you, but maybe find you a discrete area to breastfeed in.

Thanks Lizcat, I'll only be in the airports but I might disappear into a loo I guess.... Rather not any bother, a 27 hour flight with a 5 month old is challenge enough!

I don't know about Abu Dhabi, but I fed my 8 month old son during a visit to Singapore without any issues. Take a shawl or cover if you would feel more comfortable.

I seem to remember that most baby changing areas had a chair for feeding. Singapore airport is very modern and lovely - I suggest trying out the showers if there is a long stopover. We did and it was great to freshen up. Towels were provided and we were given a family cubicle big enough for two adults plus pushchair.

Lizcat 'It is more common to see the full burka in Abu Dhabi than the other emirates' - Really? That really suprises me. Not been to AD but I'd assumed it was more relaxed, more like Dubai. That really is a suprise.

I've b/f in several ME countries and just had to be rather subtle about it, using a scarf or similar and not deliberatrely drawn attention to myself. Have also b/f on flights many many times, particularly on take off and landing as it really helps their ears. Again, just use a scarf to cover you. Don't think Etihad is a 'dry' airline, not many are now, think its just Saudi Arabian Airlines.

Abu Dhabi is considerably more traditional than Dubai as tourism is not their main income, hence more burkas.

Singapore is pretty relaxed when it comes to breastfeeding as people there generally mind their own business and love kids and babies. Women do breastfeed in public (think restaurants, coffee shops etc.) however you probably won't see many boobs flashed as they try to be very modest about it and use pashminas or these cape-type things to cover up. You will get an audience a few times though as they like to watch since breastfeeding is still quite rare in Singapore. There are many malls and hotels that have mum and baby rooms. Singapore is a very child friendly and welcoming place.

Abu Dhabi - I think you may have problems there and may need to do it in the privacy of your room. I felt very intimidated when I was there recently.

I live in Abu Dhabi and have breastfed all my children here.
You will be fine to breastfeed on the plane and in the airport. There are actually not that many burkas here - sheilas and abyas yes, but not burkas.
The maternity hospitals are very pro breast feeding.
Just use a shawl or blanket and you will be fine.
Also, while you are at the airport, you will be more than welcome to breastfeed in the ladies prayer room, just be respectful and take a seat on the side, it will be no problem and is a calm and quiet spot to breastfeed and cleaner than the toilets!
Safe Travels

God, just saw how old this thread is, you have probably finished your holiday now!