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Emirates Woman
14-05-2025
- Emirates Woman
7 cultural spots that define Dubai's heritage
After unifying in 1971, the UAE has come a long way and there are several cultural spots that mark its rich heritage. In Dubai, there are many sites that display the nation's history and pay homage to where it all began. As an ode to the UAE's long-standing cultural heritage, here are seven renowned sites to visit in Dubai. Coffee Museum Designed to pay homage to the UAE's coffee culture, this concept features different roasting and brewing styles close to the country's heritage. From Middle Eastern techniques to a wide selection of coffee documentaries, visitors are educated about the ins and outside of its historical significance in Dubai. Located in Al Fahidi in Bur Dubai, this heritage hub promises a relaxing atmosphere with traditional regional architecture. For more information visit Etihad Museum View this post on Instagram A post shared by Etihad Museum (@etihadmuseum) Designed to highlight the nation's history and how the seven emirates came to unity 1971, this heritage site displays a fascinating collection of artefacts. The museum is a masterful tribute to the manuscripts on which the union agreement was originally signed. With key photographs and interactive audio-visual exhibits, visitors can experience the UAE's archival symbolism in a creative manner. Located in Jumeriah St. 1, it's open daily from 10am to 8pm. For more information visit Old Souq This expansive area is nothing short of lavish gold jewellery, handwoven fabrics, traditional oud perfumes and exquisite souvenirs. For visitors and tourists wanting to take back a piece of the UAE, they can opt for bespoke jewellery pieces as a special memento. Known for an array of exotic spices, this neighbourhood has a plethora of high-quality spices and locally-blended teas to take home. Additionally, visitors can discover the colourful textile market in the heart of Bur Dubai. Hatta Heritage Village View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Hatta (@ Go back in time to the life of ancient villagers with a host of citadels, forts and towers in Dubai's mountain town. With springs and lush valleys, visitors can experience the life of villagers who have adopted a sustainable technique of living. To visit nature's beauty first-hand, the Hatta Dam provides activities such as kayaking for that picturesque spot. For an insight into the UAE's traditional techniques, visitors can view the villagers' inherited traditions that include jewellery making, weaponry, pottery and more for an ideal afternoon getaway. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding View this post on Instagram A post shared by SMCCU (@smccudubai) Founded in 1998, this centre was founded to educate expats from different communities living and visiting the UAE. Located in a beautifully restored wind tower house in the historic, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai, where visitors can interact with local Emiratis and learn about traditional cuisine. With a 360-degree experience, guests can take a seat on the Bedouin-style carpets and indulge in a traditional Emirati meal, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner and experience a guided tour of the neighbourhood. For more information visit Arabian Tea House To experience fine Emirati hospitality, this venue has provided the first Emirati cuisine since 1997. With authentic elements such as rattan chairs, lace curtains, turquoise benches, visitors can enjoy a cup of traditional Arabic coffee known as gahwa to explore the city's past. As a relaxing oasis to talk and unwind, customers can go back in time to when old architecture reigned supreme. This concept is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood which was previously known as Al Bastakiya. For more information visit Dubai Museum View this post on Instagram A post shared by DUBAI MUSEUM (@dubaimuseum) To delve into life before the discovery of oil, this ancient museum takes visitors on an unseen journey in a quaint, low-slung military fort from the 1700s. From pearl diving to fishing, light is shed upon ancient occupation and other archaeological finds. The galleries recreate scenes from the creek, traditional Arab houses, mosques, the souk, date farms and desert and marine life. Again, the museum is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Built in 1787, this fort was once the monarch's base and highlights the history of the UAE. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @dubaimuseum
Khaleej Times
25-03-2025
- Khaleej Times
How a humble courtyard iftar outshines Dubai's flashiest Ramadan tents
One of Dubai's most memorable iftars isn't plated at a luxury buffet or served in a grand hotel hall. It's shared cross-legged on a carpet, beneath the stars, in a historic courtyard where the food is traditional and the conversations are transformative — an experience that lingers long after the last cup of gahwa is poured. Each evening during Ramadan, as five-star hotels across the city compete with elaborate buffets and dazzling ambience, a more grounded and authentic experience unfolds in the heart of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Inside a 150-year-old wind tower, the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) hosts an iftar that continues to hold its own, and, for many, surpasses the city's glitzier options. Long before the call to Maghrib prayer echoes through the alleyways, scores of guests from across the globe settle cross-legged on carpets, shoulder-to-shoulder, in a courtyard packed with people and stories. The seating is simple: traditional cushions, low tables, lanterns, and retro décor that transports visitors back in time. The atmosphere is immersive. 'This is my third iftar since arriving in Dubai, and while the hotel ones were impressive, nothing comes close to this,' said a tourist from Germany. 'There's something real and human about sitting on the floor with strangers and learning about the culture this way.' The evening begins with hosts Noura and Hamad, dressed in traditional Emirati attire, welcoming guests and offering a brief introduction to Islamic beliefs and Ramadan customs. As the sun sets, everyone breaks their fast with Khalas dates and crispy sambosas, followed by small handle-less cups of gahwa, Arabic coffee flavoured with saffron and cardamom. 'The cups are called finjan,' Noura explains with a smile. 'They're never filled to the brim, because in our tradition, a full cup means you want the guest to leave. And if you want more coffee, just extend your hand with the cup. If you're done, shake it slightly, of course, when it's empty.' Noura also explains that the Khalas variety of dates is prized for its sweetness, which is why Emiratis often don't add sugar to their coffee. 'The coffee itself is light and fragrant, meant to complement the dates.' Dinner is a hearty spread of traditional Emirati dishes, served buffet-style. Guests dig into chicken machboos, lamb tharid, and vegetable salona. The spirit of Arab hospitality is unmistakable: warm, generous, and communal. After the meal, guests are taken on a short, guided tour of a nearby mosque, where they gain deeper insight into Islamic practices. The evening ends with rooftop desserts — umm ali, luqaimat, and tea — alongside cultural games and live cooking. One of the most engaging segments is the open Q&A session. No question is off limits. Noura and Hamad answer everything from religious customs to everyday traditions with candour and humour. 'Why do most Emirati women wear black abayas while men wear white kandouras?' a curious guest asks. 'It's not religious, just tradition,' Noura replies, before walking guests through a live demonstration of traditional Emirati attire. She showcases a sheila, the elegant black headscarf, and a richly embroidered dress often worn beneath the abaya. Then, holding up a metallic-looking mask, she captures everyone's attention. 'It looks like metal, but it's actually made of delicate fabric and it's called burqa or burghu' she explains. 'Bedouin women used to wear it to signal they were married. These days, you'll mostly see young women wear it for selfies.' She goes on to explain the practical roots of the abaya. 'In the past, women owned just two or three dresses. The abaya acted as an extra layer to protect their clothes from fading in the sun, and it helped preserve modesty, too.' Hamad chimes in to explain the men's attire. 'The white kandoura, also called dishdasha, is practical for the heat. And this black cord on my head called an agal was used to tie the front legs of camels so they wouldn't wander away.' The SMCCU iftar costs Dh180 per person, but the experience it offers is priceless. For over 25 years, the centre has played a vital role in bridging cultural gaps between UAE nationals and the country's vast expatriate population, under the motto 'Open Doors. Open Minds.' 'Our Ramadan experience is more than just a meal,' says Hamad. 'It's a chance for people to connect, learn, and understand one another a little better. That's what this month and this country is all about.'
The National
04-03-2025
- The National
How the UAE's Ramadan dining rules have changed in recent years
Over the past few years, the UAE's rules regarding restaurant operations during Ramadan have softened. Until recently, food courts were behind opaque partitions for the holy month. Before that, many would not even open until sunset. However, things have changed. Sara Yousef, a cultural speaker for the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding, says: 'The easing of rules has made things more inclusive because not only do non-Muslims not fast, but there are also cases where Muslims are exempt from fasting. 'This includes the age factor – from children to the elderly and others who might have certain health conditions – to women on their period or those who have recently given birth. As such, having fewer restrictions around daytime dining is helpful both for visitors and residents who are not fasting.' Here's a look at some rules that have changed over the years and a few that haven't – plus tips on being respectful despite the easing of restrictions. No matter the time of day, food courts in most shopping centres in the UAE are often teeming with people. Until a few years ago, though, things were different during Ramadan. 'Back in the day, we had to take permits for restaurants to be operational before iftar hours,' says Somya Jain, chief executive of Chatori Gali, an Indian street food restaurant. 'After that, the law changed to no permit, but outlets were required to cover the dining area with curtains or a barricade. For the past few years, operations are as normal.' By 2018, food courts were allowed to serve during the day, albeit behind screens or curtains. By 2021, mall restaurants and cafes across Abu Dhabi and Dubai were allowed to remove the partitions, even during fasting hours. This year, eating and drinking are allowed in all parts of a mall in both emirates. The rules vary in other emirates, though. In Sharjah, for example, restaurants need to apply for permits to cook, display and serve food, so it's best to check with the mall or restaurant before visiting. 'Although the rules have changed, we try to keep dining low-key and prioritise filling indoor seats first to avoid assigning tables in the outdoor areas as a sign of respect for those who are fasting,' Jain says. As with malls, standalone restaurants – indoor and outdoor – are allowed to serve food and drinks during the day. When ordering in, especially at the workplace, Yousef recommends eating in another room out of respect for colleagues. 'The majority of people who fast do not have an issue if someone is eating when they are not,' she says. 'When a colleague comes in with a hot coffee that smells so good, it's challenging for someone who has not had their morning cuppa, especially in the first week of Ramadan. So be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.' While beach clubs and other open-air restaurants are open during fasting hours, loud music is not permitted outdoors until iftar, with some venues such as Surf Club on West Palm Beach playing no music in the daytime and Chouchou on J1 Beach playing only quiet lounge music. Most venues tend to stick to ambient music. Raspoutine in DIFC will remain open for the first time this year, playing only background music, the same goes for Lock Stock and Barrel in Abu Dhabi, which will not host any DJs or live bands. Concerts continue to stop during Ramadan, adds Yousef. 'While rules for the volume of music differ by venue and even by emirate, concerts in outdoors arenas come to a stop during this month as there is a chance of the music being audible even to those passing by the area.' Live music, however, is allowed for private gatherings in hotel ballrooms, as well as on cruise ships and yachts after sundown. Open-air events continue to be on the down-low or disallowed. Holi, the Indian festival of colours, falls on March 14 this year, with some venues hosting events either in February or after Ei Al Fitr. Being discreet and respectful is important throughout the holy month. 'It's important to stay mindful, which can be done by curating meaningful iftar experiences, keeping the ambience respectful and embracing community initiatives,' says Joshi, who adds that the changes to Ramadan rules are 'blending tradition with innovation and making this time of year even more special for everyone'.
The National
17-02-2025
- The National
Visiting the UAE during Ramadan: Everything tourists need to know
This year's Ramadan is set to coincide with one of the peak months for tourism in the UAE. The holy month is expected to begin on March 1, with Eid Al Fitr predicted to fall on March 31. This crosses over with the tail-end of winter, the coolest time of year, which makes it a popular time for tourists with spring set to begin on March 20. The religious period sees Muslims around the world fasting during daylight. Iftar and suhoor takes place throughout the evening as the fast is broken, with many UAE residents joining in the daily ritual. The holy month is also a time of slowing down, reflecting and coming together. As a Muslim country, it's crucial to be respectful of those fasting throughout the month, whether you're Muslim or not, resident or a tourist. Traditionally, Ramadan was marked in a very different fashion in the UAE – with only a few restaurants open during fasting hours, and even then diners were seated behind curtains. There was no background music, and many bars and clubs were closed for the month. Fast forward to 2025 and rules during the holy month have changed. Most cafes and restaurants can operate normally, and many extend their hours to be open from morning until midnight. Yet the expectation of culturally sensitivity still applies. 'The rules have relaxed a lot and I think it is a testament to the UAE's understanding of its population and tourists visiting the UAE increasingly more and more throughout the years,' Ruqaya Al Hameeri, operations manager at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding, tells The National. While there are no rules in place for tourists visiting the UAE, there are several points visitors should be aware of during Ramadan. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit. Ramadan is a good time to be considerate, opting for more modest outfits to respect those observing the holy month. 'The recommended dress code to fit in with the Ramadan vibes is to dress more modestly by wearing something that covers the shoulders and something long enough to cover the knees,' says Al Hameeri. When you go to the mall or out in public don't wear anything too tight and perhaps have a light jacket, cardigan or scarf to cover your shoulders if you're wearing a sleeveless top. Embrace the season by wearing colourful abayas, kaftans or hand-tailored kandura, which can be bought at souqs, markets and shops across the country, then take it home as a souvenir. There's no need for women to cover their hair unless they plan to visit a mosque. That said, if you're at the beach, by the pool or at a waterpark, beachwear is acceptable, even during Ramadan. Just cover up when you leave the waterside. Of course, travellers and non-Muslims can drink water at any time during the day, but it is best to do so discreetly. Tourists do not need to fast during Ramadan, and most restaurants and cafes are open as normal. However, visitors should be discreet when eating and drinking in public during the holy month. 'There aren't any major laws during the fasting hours of Ramadan but instead we have some etiquettes that are expected from non-Muslims. Some of these etiquettes are no eating, drinking, nor smoking in public areas,' says Al Hameeri. It is advisable not to smoke in public places during the holy month. This applies to vaping, too. Selected mosques are open to tourists during Ramadan. 'Jumeirah Mosque is open to all throughout the year and especially during the month of Ramadan,' says Al Hameeri. One of only a handful of mosques open to non-Muslims, the place of worship has two daily sessions that visitors can attend, one at 10am and one at 2pm, every day except Friday. In Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcomes tourists daily, although it closes each evening for iftar before reopening until 1am. If you're in the area, you'll likely hear the iftar cannon firing, which signals the end of the day's fasting and the start of maghrib prayers. In the final ten days of Ramadan, which will be from March 31, the mosque will be closed to non-worshippers after sundown. It's advisable to research the mosque's visitor policy before attending. Children are not required to fast or follow any set rules during Ramadan. Non-Muslim and Muslim children are exempt from fasting, as Islamic law states that children do not need to fast until they reach adulthood. However, many local children choose to join in by fasting with their families. A key part of Ramadan is the daily fast, with Muslims abstaining from food and drinks during daylight hours. Iftar, the meal to break the fast each day, begins once the Sun has set and many hotels and restaurants offer special iftar menus. Go to at least one to soak in the spirit of the month. At the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, the cultural iftar experience is a fascinating way to connect with the local culture. Participants can try traditional food, learn more about the meaning behind fasting and Ramadan, have a guided tour of the mosque plus the chance to ask questions they may have to the knowledgeable Emirati guides. A long-running tradition in the UAE is the country's Ramadan night markets, when stalls are set up at spots around the cities to serve shoppers from sunset until the small hours. Shop for dates, Arabic lanterns, kaftans, oud and henna. Many vendors are local businesses or artisans, and the market is a place to showcase and sell their products. Hai Ramadan is taking place at Expo City Dubai this year, or head to Ramadan District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers Plaza Terrace where visitors can shop, snack and unwind in the shadow of Museum of the Future. 'Trying to fast during the holy month will really immerse tourists in the experience,' says Al Hameeri. To really embrace the holy month, try fasting even if it's just for a day or two. While Ramadan kareem is the most widely used greeting during the holy month, travellers who want to embrace the season have a few other options. 'My favourite is mubarak alykom al shahr – it means congratulations on the month. But another easy one is Ramadan mubarak, which means Ramadan is a blessing,' says Al Hameeri.
The Independent
29-01-2025
- The Independent
‘I went to Dubai on a budget – here's my top tips'
Across the creek from the bright lights and skyscrapers of Dubai, I feel like I'm another world away in a quiet and still traditional Emirati -style house. People come from all over the globe to climb the world's tallest building, see the heaviest gold ring or to try and get their hands on the viral Dubai chocolate bar made famous on TikTok. But there is another side of Dubai, rich with Emirati traditions, and dare I say it, even accessible on a budget. From a dull and cold morning in the UK, it's a shock to the system as I land in 38C heat and a city that even at 2am is busy and bustling. A drive across the creek to the historic Al Seef area transports me to some welcome tranquillity. We are greeted at the Al Seef Heritage Hotel by Hilton with a cool glass of pomegranate juice before a golf buggy speeds us to our rooms in a low, flat-roofed building, complete with veranda offering stunning views of the lights and city skyline on the other side of the water. Tastes, sights, sounds of old Dubai I'll never say no to walking in the footsteps of Beyoncé. The next morning, I follow her lead by visiting the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) in one of the oldest areas of Dubai for a feast of both food and culture. Over a brunch that includes a chicken biryani, rice, bread and small round donuts covered in date syrup, guide Noora Al Marzooqi explains traditional hospitality in Dubai. Noora describes the layout of the old house and how the rooms were once used for living and hosting. She reveals that being served a small cup of coffee illustrates affection for guests – implying the hosts want you to stay with them for longer. No questions are off limits, from clothes to traditions to headwear, as she patiently explains how local garments protect Emiratis from the searing heat while working outside. Exploring the souks Dubai's oldest network of souks in the Al Khor area are another evocative way to feel the soul of the city. I find vendors selling everything from spices to gold to flowers, clothes, perfumes and many varieties of food lining the narrow streets. Ketki from Frying Pan Adventures describes the areas as the arteries of the city, as she brings us to a number of the most popular food outlets. These include the Al Shaiba Bakery, where despite the heat, Afghan bread is baked day and night for one of the tastiest and least expensive snacks in the city. Still hot from the oven, honey is soon dripping down my fingers as I bite into the cheese and honey bread, and sip on some hot sweet tea. Part of the tour includes a short boat transfer across the creek to another section of souks, where a Hindu influence is evidenced with bright colours and fresh flowers. Our tour concludes at the Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant, where the owners pride themselves on the traditional decor and local favourites such as a mouthwatering lamb biryani served on a low table. A desert safari One of the most magical experiences of my trip is a Heritage Safari by vintage Land Rover. The company, Platinum Heritage, ensures we are well prepared, wrapping our heads with scarves to protect from the sun as we set off in vintage Land Rovers into sands as far as the eye can see. Conservation guide Amjad Mehmood clearly has a passion for the landscape and wildlife, explaining conservation efforts, and slowing down to let us get a sight of oryx and the more elusive little sand lizards, which scuttle about the dunes. As the sun starts to set, we arrive for a falcon display before going on to a beautifully set up camp for a feast under the stars. After a camel ride, we enjoy a musical performance and lie on carpets and low sofas for a guided star gazing session with shisha pipes. Luxury in the modern city It's impossible to visit Dubai and not marvel at the aspects that have made the city world famous. Alongside the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, is the Frame, an audaciously huge gold frame stretching into the sky. It has the added bonus of an exhibition charting the city's rapid transformation from the mid-20th century to current day. An elevator zooms up the 48-floor structure in just 75 seconds for panoramic views across the city. Yacht tours from Dubai Marina offer another view of the city, passing towering skyscrapers at various stages of construction. But no trip to Dubai is complete without visiting the famous Palm Jumeirah where some of the most luxurious hotels in the world are located, and the seven-star Burj Al Arab, which is close by. Yes, you can save and splurge on an extravagant visit, but you can also have an authentic experience without breaking the bank.
