Traditions of Dubai
A creek port that grew into a global city, still keeping pearl diving, dhow, falconry and majlis hospitality.
Dubai began as a fishing and pearl-diving village on a creek. Emirati customs of hospitality, poetry and falconry sit alongside the world's tallest buildings. The old quarter of Al Fahidi and the dhow wharfs on the creek preserve the older city, and Emirati families still gather in the majlis, a room for receiving guests.
Pearls, sails and majlis
Pearl diving, once the main trade, is remembered in songs, in the Heritage Village and at the Al Shindagha museum. A traditional dhow race is held in the winter. In the majlis, guests are served dates and Arabic coffee, with host and guest sitting on cushions, and conversation and poetry follow.
At the table
Harees, wheat and meat slow-cooked until smooth, and machboos, spiced rice with fish or meat, are classic Emirati dishes. Luqaimat, fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup, are the sweet of Ramadan and festivals. Karak, strong sweet milk tea with cardamom, is the city's drink.
Signature traditions of Dubai
Also part of it, and being written: Emirati cuisine (The food of the UAE.), Pearl hunting (The old pearl diving trade.), Luqaimat (The festive sweet dumplings.), Falconry (The art of hunting with falcons.).
A trail idea for Dubai
- Al Fahidi Historical District Walk the wind-tower houses.
- Dubai Creek by abra Cross the water on a wooden boat.
- Deira Spice Souk Smell saffron, frankincense and dried limes.
Written by the EveryParampara desk with AI assistance. Opening hours, markets and festival dates change; check locally before travelling. Customs differ from place to place and family to family. If this is your tradition and we have it wrong, tell us.
