7 Ways to Experience Emirate Culture in Dubai

Delve deep into the diverse culture of the Emirate

Various aspects of the seven United Arab Emirates bear the imprint of the blending of the cultures of Arabia, Islam, and Persia (UAE). The lifestyle, cuisine, customs and traditions, dance, music, and many other aspects of the country all exhibit the rich culture of the United Arab Emirates.

It’s beneficial for tourists to have a better understanding of the vast culture of Dubai. This will enable you to enjoy your trip and engage with locals without offending anyone and help you avoid any cultural faux pas. Visitors to any Emirate should be aware of some modest gestures in daily life because Emirati culture differs significantly from Western equivalents in many aspects. This is a comprehensive guide to UAE behavior and customs.

To learn more about the rich history and culture of the Emirates, keep reading this page.

Let’s get started!

• How Emiratis greet each other

The Khusmak, or Emirati kiss, is a distinctive and unusual method that Emiratis greet one another. It involves men touching noses. Other typical greetings include a firm handshake with the right hand and a cordial embrace between people of the same gender.

The woman is frequently not greeted with a handshake or an embrace due to religious observance. A quick nod with the hand on the heart and a grin are also frequently used as an alternate greeting.

Other behaviors that are disapproved of in the UAE include taking pictures of people—especially women—without their consent, admiring or gazing at women, insulting Islam, and dressing badly in public. Furthermore, it is illegal and criminal by law for anyone to demonstrate any kind of public affection.

• Devote some time at the mosque

Everyone is welcome at the mosque, locals give escorted tours six days a week. Visitors can learn more about Emirati culture and religion on these tours. All faiths are welcome to visit.

• Indulge in Emiratis customs and traditions

Emiratis follow a wide range of traditions and customs that are particular to their nation. For instance, as a sign of hospitality, Arab coffee is provided to visitors in this nation in the Arabic coffee pot known as the Dallah. Refusing it when it is offered as a welcome gesture is regarded as impolite and disrespectful.

Another long-standing tradition in the UAE that represents the Bedouin character of the country is falconry. The falcon, known as “Saqr,” is regarded as a symbol of courage, resoluteness, the strength of character, elegance, and satisfaction.

In the UAE, falconry is a significant “sport” and has been practiced in the Arabian Peninsula for more than 4,000 years. Since ancient times, raising, training, and caring for falcons have been a significant aspect of UAE culture.

• Explore the menu full of authentic Emirati cuisine

Visitors should take the time to savor some of the delectable Emirati cuisines because it is so good. The people of the UAE love to eat and frequently praise God before and after meals.Emiratis love to consume dates and camel milk. It’s vital to remember that locals don’t drink, therefore it’s preferable to choose a restaurant without alcohol if you’re going out to dinner with an Emirati buddy. Additionally, never serve pork to locals or Muslims in general because doing so is against their faith.

• What the architecture reflects?

Persian, Arabian, and Islamic architectural forms have greatly affected and inspired the architecture in this region, and it serves as a representation of the United Arab Emirates and the Emiratis’ rich cultural heritage as well as their long-standing traditions and way of life. To guarantee that people have enough ventilation and privacy, local architects carefully assess the climatic conditions and use a variety of materials. An Iranian architectural feature known as a “Barjeel” or “Windtower” is used to create natural ventilation. The UAE’s malls and hotels boast the nicest architecture because so many tourists frequently visit these establishments.

• Experience desert adventure

A luxurious overnight desert safari offers a look into the past and a picture of bedouin life in the desert. The fully immersive camping safari is perfect and transports you to an earlier time so you can explore Dubai. Spend a memorable evening around the bonfire in a traditional majlis, go on an environmental walk to spot nocturnal creatures, and get expert astronomical advice on how to interpret the night sky. After that, you’ll spend the night in an authentic Arabic tent and awaken just in time for a delicious gourmet breakfast. By selecting a hot air balloon flight in the early morning, you can further customize your vacation.

• Try different attire

Islamic writings that encourage modesty and conservatism have a profound influence on Emirati dress, and both men and women commonly wear outfits that conceal the majority of their bodies.

Women in the Arab Emirates typically wear an abaya, a long, black cloak that covers everything save the feet, hands, and face. Women frequently couple it with the niqab and gafaaz to cover their hands and faces. When women go out in public, they cover their entire body and face with a burqa, an outer garment worn over their regular clothing, to prevent skin exposure.

Men in the Arab Emirates typically match their Kandura, a long, loose-fitting robe that is typically white in color, with Ghutrah, a traditional headscarf that can be tied in a variety of ways. The length of the Kandura is frequently used to gauge a person’s rank; the longer the robe, the wealthier the wearer. Additionally, in areas like Dubai, some people, particularly young people and foreigners, are seen wearing more western clothes, such as jeans and T-shirts.

• Final thoughts

Finally!! After reading about these fantastic cultural activities, readers will undoubtedly want to travel to the UAE and experience these traditions and customs themselves. You are sure to love the rich history and culture of the UAE, whether it is because of the breathtaking architectural sights in Dubai and Abu Dhabi or the mouthwatering seafood provided there.