From the golden sands of the Arabian Gulf to the towering heights of its world-famous skyline, Dubai
is a vibrant city that holds a deep connection to its past.
As you explore this modern metropolis, you’ll uncover a rich cultural history through the sights, sounds, and stories of its Emirati people. The Emirates has long been a crossroads for trade and travel between East and West, an ancient bridge between the Middle East and the rest of the world. Here are just some of the ways you can experience rich Emirati culture during your Dubai holidays!
Dubai is a city that boasts a unique blend of modernity and tradition. At the heart of this global
metropolis lies the rich Emirati culture, which has shaped the city’s identity for generations. This
culture is a celebration of time-honoured values, strong familial ties, and deeply rooted customs that
continue to influence the day-to-day lives of both locals and visitors alike. Emiratis are renowned for
their warmth and hospitality, welcoming guests with open arms and often inviting them into their
homes to share a meal and leave with treasured memories. As you wander through the vibrant
alleys and bustling souks, you are likely to come across artisans showcasing their age-old
craftsmanship, such as pearl diving, falconry, and weaving. Moreover, the tantalizing aroma of
traditional Emirati dishes, like al harees and al majboos, is bound to stimulate your senses, luring you
into a world of culinary delights that embody the essence of Dubai. As the city continues to develop
and innovate, the Emirati culture remains deeply entrenched, ensuring a rich and diverse experience
for those who wish to discover the soul of this remarkable destination.
Visit Historical Sites
A great way to get a glimpse into historic Emirati culture is by visiting some of Dubai’s iconic
historical sites. The Al Fahidi Historical District (formerly known as Bastakiya) is home to five wind
towers which were built in the 19th century for cooling purposes. Today, these traditional structures are
preserved as part of Dubai’s Museum, which also houses artifacts from prehistoric times through to
the present day.
Within walking distance from the museum lies Jumeirah Mosque – one of only two mosques open to
non-Muslims in all of Dubai. Built-in 1979 in classic Fatimid style with intricate carvings and mosaic
tiles throughout, it’s well worth a visit if you’re interested in getting an insight into local customs and
beliefs.
Experience Local Customs
If you want to truly immerse yourself in local culture, why not try attending a traditional wedding
ceremony? Weddings are often celebrated over several days with lots of singing and dancing, lavish
feasts prepared by family members, and lots of gifts exchanged between guests – it’s quite an
experience! You can also sample traditional Emirati cuisines such as Thareed (meat stew served over
bread) or Machbous (a popular rice dish). And no trip would be complete without trying Arabic
coffee – served sweet with cardamom for extra flavour.
Exploring Emirati culture is an important part of any visit to Dubai. From exploring ancient ruins at
the Al Fahidi Historical District to tasting traditional cuisine or attending a wedding ceremony – no
matter how much time you have available there’s something for everyone to enjoy here! So don’t
miss out on experiencing this unique slice of global heritage while you explore one of the most
exciting cities in the world!
