A couple more pointers. Dubai I've gotten searched a lot, something like 1/3rd of the time I've gone there. I always say, "Salaam malakum" to the searcher ("Pe

A couple more pointers. Dubai I've gotten searched a lot, something like 1/3rd of the time I've gone there. I always say, "Salaam malakum" to the searcher ("Peace be with you" in Arabic), and they get a bit friendlier after that. Same with most countries. A polite salutation or a few words goes pretty far in most places. Ironically, and unfortunately, the two nastiest countries I've been, with the meanest and most capricious officials, are the USA and UK. And I'm an American. Now, caveat emptor, but I've found a slight bit of condescencion and skpeticism - very, very slight - works well with American officials. Mix it with the utmost politeness. When I'm pulled aside by an American official, I'm friendly and polite, and then I drop, "Pardon me, sir, could you tell me a little about why I was selected? Is it random, like every few passengers, or do I fit a profile as a young person traveling, or some such?" The guy always gives me attitude back. Always. Well, not always. Some guys are friendly, and I drop it, and they let me go soon. But the hardasses always give me attitude. To which I drop, "Okay, I understand, I know you're doing your job and respect that. I'm just always curious how our country is being run - a couple members of my family are with the government, and they encourage me to ask questions like this." That tends to mildly put the fear of God in these petty, powerless bullies who like to go on their crazy airport power trips. The key is the slightest, oh-so slightest tone that you're better than them mixed with the utmost politeness. Caveat emptor, but it's worked well for me.