Dubai is home to people from many different countries, making it one of the world’s most diverse and exciting cities. The city is growing fast, with a strong economy, modern facilities, and great job opportunities. That’s why people from all over the world move here to work, invest, and have a better life. Different cultures live together in Dubai, creating a mix of old traditions and modern life. If you plan to visit or live in Dubai, learning about its people and their way of life can help you have a better experience.
About Dubai
Dubai is one of the most important cities in the United Arab Emirates. It is also one of the top places in the world for business and tourism. The city is about 3,585 square kilometres and is next to the Persian Gulf. Dubai is famous for its modern buildings, big shopping malls, and fun attractions. More than 3.6 million people come from many different countries and cultures. Dubai is a big business center with many international companies. It is also home to famous places like the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island. Because of all these things, Dubai is one of the most popular tourist places.
Culture and Traditions of the People of Dubai
Dubai’s culture follows Islamic traditions. Even though the city is modern, these traditions are still important. However, Dubai is also an international city, and people from all religions are welcome. They can practice their religion freely. People in Dubai can wear what they like, but it is good to respect local customs. Alcohol is allowed in hotels and clubs, but drinking in public is not permitted and can lead to a big fine. During Ramadan, hotels and restaurants still serve food to tourists because Dubai is an international city. However, since Dubai is a Muslim city, eating and drinking in public during the day is not allowed. Visitors should follow this rule to avoid problems. People in Dubai are very kind and friendly. They welcome tourists and treat them with respect.
Religion in Dubai
Islam is the main religion in Dubai, and most people living there are Muslims. Islam is important in Dubai’s culture, laws, and daily life. There are many mosques in the city, and five times a day, you can hear the call to prayer from loudspeakers. But Dubai is also home to people from different religions. Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and others can pray in their own places. However, some Islamic rules still apply in public, like dressing modestly and following alcohol restrictions.
Clothing in Dubai
In the UAE, wearing a hijab is not required, and people can wear whatever they want. However, some Arab and Muslim women in Dubai wear a niqab (a face covering) and long, dark clothes. Women with higher education often dress more freely and wear comfortable clothes. On the other hand, women with less education may follow more traditional dress codes, like wearing a headscarf or face veil and following religious rules. Even though wearing a hijab is not required, you will see many different styles of clothes in Dubai. You can wear what you like, and no one will bother you. However, since Dubai is a Muslim city, it’s best to avoid clothes that are too revealing to respect local customs and feel comfortable.
Traditional Clothing of People in Dubai
Men in Dubai wear a traditional outfit called dishdasha or kandura, a long white shirt. They also wear a white or red head covering called a keffiyeh, which is held in place with a black rope called agal. Sheikhs and traders wear a thin black or brown cloak called a bisht or Mishnah over the dishdasha for special events.
The traditional dress for women is the abaya, a long black robe covering their whole body. Some women wear a thin black face veil (niqab) and gloves to cover their faces. Older women wear a leather mask called a burqa, which covers the nose, eyebrows, and chin.
Official Language of the People of Dubai
The primary language spoken in the United Arab Emirates is Arabic. It is used in official papers, government work, and the news. But, because many people from different countries live in Dubai, English is also commonly used in daily life and business.
Hospitality in Dubai
Hospitality is significant in Dubai. When guests arrive, people serve Arabic coffee with special flavours like clove and cardamom. The people of Dubai care a lot about traditions and being kind to guests, and they expect visitors to follow these customs, too. If you visit a traditional house in Dubai, you should wear loose, long clothes and take off your shoes. When meeting someone for the first time, some men from the UAE may touch their noses, but visitors do not have to do this. When sitting, it is considered rude if your toes point toward someone. Also, during evening meals, people often eat with their hands, which is a part of Dubai’s culture. In general, the people of Dubai are very friendly and welcoming.
Food in Dubai
Food in Dubai is very special and full of great flavours that tell you about the people and their culture. In Dubai, people only eat halal meat, which is prepared according to Islamic rules. Some of the most popular foods are kebabs, which are pieces of grilled meat served with rice, bread, or vegetables. Another tasty food is falafel, which is made from chickpeas and spices and is often served with bread or salad.
Food in Dubai is not just for eating; it’s also a way for people to spend time with family and friends. The food comes from many different countries, like the Middle East, India, and Asia. It tastes strong because of spices like cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon. If you visit Dubai, you will get to try many different yummy foods unique to the city.
Marriage Traditions in Dubai
In Dubai, marriages must be officially registered, and the legal age to get married is 18. Before marriage, couples must get a health check certificate. In the past, weddings were held at big family homes, and guests were served camel meat. Now, weddings are usually held in halls or hotels. The marriage proposal, engagement, and wedding are the most important parts of the ceremony. These events are filled with celebrations, food, drinks, music, dancing, and traditional clothing. The bride and groom wear unique clothes. These traditions show the culture and values of the people in Dubai.
Dubai’s culture is a mix of customs, traditions, and social values that reflect the city’s cultural diversity. The people of Dubai pay attention to local customs, respect religions, and wear appropriate clothing. Social interactions and friendly behaviour in relationships with others are every day, and respect for religion and religious ceremonies is one of their core principles.
