Arabic Coffee and Hospitality Traditions in the UAE
How Arabic coffee is served and received in the UAE, from pouring etiquette to its UNESCO recognition.
A practical guide to UAE customs, heritage and places
An independent cultural magazine covering customs, heritage and places in the United Arab Emirates. Practical articles on majlis etiquette, traditional crafts, historic sites and official community opportunities, with verified sources to help plan your visit.
All topics
Customs and etiquette
Guidance for visitors and residents on hospitality etiquette, serving coffee, appropriate dress and expected behaviour in majlises and public spaces, based on official visitor advice.
Guest Etiquette in the UAE: Official Visitor Guidance
Practical notes from official UAE visitor guidance on refreshments, handshakes, standing for guests and photography.
Majlis Culture and Visitor Etiquette in the UAE
An overview of the majlis as a cultural and social space in the UAE, its community functions, heritage transmission, and visitor etiquette based on UNESCO and government guidance.
What to Wear at Cultural Sites and Public Places in the UAE
UAE guidance on dressing modestly in public spaces, malls and conservative areas, plus specific expectations for mosque visits.
Heritage and crafts
Articles on internationally and locally recognised heritage practices including weaving, falconry and performing arts, focusing on knowledge transmission and the social context of each craft.
Al-Ayyala: A Shared Performing Art of the UAE and Oman
An overview of Al-Ayyala, a traditional performing art practised throughout the UAE and north-western Oman. UNESCO inscribed it on the Representative List in 2014.
Al Sadu Traditional Weaving in the UAE
An overview of Al Sadu, a traditional weaving practice associated with Bedouin women in the United Arab Emirates, covering its UNESCO inscription history and safeguarding programme.
Falconry as Living Heritage in the UAE
How falconry is defined, transmitted and inscribed on the UNESCO multinational list, with the UAE as a participating state.
UAE Pearling Heritage and Dubai Creek
How Dubai Creek, Al Shindagha Museum and Qasr Al Hosn connect to the UAE's coastal pearling history.
Places and landmarks
Historic neighbourhoods, museums and oases across the UAE, detailing local architecture, traditional irrigation systems and planning a visit using official sources.
Al Ain Oasis: Falaj Irrigation and Date Palms
An overview of Al Ain Oasis, its UNESCO World Heritage status, falaj irrigation channels, date palms, and the Eco-Centre.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: Traditional Architecture Along Dubai Creek
A practical overview of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, its preserved infrastructure along Dubai Creek and the traditional materials found in the district.
Al Shindagha Museum: Dubai Creek and Maritime Trade
Al Shindagha Museum in the Dubai Creek area presents a multimedia exhibition on maritime trade, alongside the Perfume House.
Heart of Sharjah: Exploring the Heritage District and Souqs
A practical overview of Heart of Sharjah, covering its coral-stone walls, historic pathways, museums and Souq Al Shanasiyah.
For families
Editorial suggestions for museum visits and educational activities suitable for children, drawing on official institutional resources to help parents plan.
Visiting Etihad Museum with Children: Understanding the UAE's Founding
Approaching a family visit to Etihad Museum in Dubai, focusing on the documented founding of the UAE and practical editorial suggestions for planning.
Heritage Learning for Children: Museums and Al Sadu Weaving Skills
A practical overview of Abu Dhabi's cultural education inventory, Al Sadu weaving transmission, a home activity suggestion and details to confirm with operators.
Family and School Learning at Louvre Abu Dhabi
A guide to self-guided learning resources and school programmes at Louvre Abu Dhabi, including interactive activities and exploration-based educational routes.
Qasr Al Hosn: Exploring Abu Dhabi's History with Children
Abu Dhabi Culture describes Qasr Al Hosn as a historic landmark and national living memorial. A practical overview of the Inner Fort, Outer Palace and cultural education programmes for visiting families.
Celebrations and occasions
National and religious occasions in the UAE such as Eid Al Etihad, Flag Day and Ramadan, distinguishing historical facts from annual programming.
Eid Al Etihad and the Formation of the UAE Federation
How six emirates formed the UAE federation on 2 December 1971, the official name Eid Al Etihad, and Union House in Dubai.
Eid Traditions and Family Gatherings in the UAE
How official holidays, Ramadan customs and Al Talli embroidery feature in family life in the UAE.
Ramadan in the UAE: A Visitor Guide to Iftar and Etiquette
Practical notes for visitors during Ramadan in the UAE, covering moon sighting, suhoor, iftar customs and official etiquette guidance.
UAE Flag Day: Meaning, Practice and the 1971 Distinction
UAE Flag Day is observed on 3 November. This article explains its origin, how it differs from 2 December 1971, and what official guidance covers.
Community and participation
Official volunteering platforms, public libraries and cultural workshops offered through government entities, with guidance on checking current requirements and registration.
Finding Cultural Workshops in the UAE
A practical overview of educational activities, heritage programmes and craft workshops available across cultural sites in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Public Libraries as Community Spaces in Dubai
An overview of the Dubai Public Library network, its branches, digital portal and shared facilities managed by Dubai Culture.
The Seven Emirates: A Cultural and Administrative Introduction
An overview of the seven emirates of the UAE, their federation history, local government structures and official destination profiles.
Volunteering in the UAE: Using Volunteers.ae
How to register on Volunteers.ae, browse opportunity categories and check eligibility requirements for volunteering in the UAE.