Culture & Lifestyle

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Culture & Lifestyle

Culture

Dubai's culture is firmly rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia. Islam is more than just a religion, it is a way of life that governs even the minutiae of everyday events, from what to wear to what to eat and drink. Thus the culture and heritage of the UAE is tied to its religion. In parts of the world, Islamic fundamentalism has given the 'outside' world a very extreme, blanket view of the religion. However, in contrast to this image, the UAE is tolerant and welcoming, foreigners are free to practice their own religion, alcohol is served in hotels and the dress code is liberal. Women face little discrimination and, contrary to the policies of Saudi Arabia and Iran, are able to drive and walk around unescorted. Among the most highly prized virtues are courtesy and hospitality and visitors are sure to be charmed by the genuine warmth and friendliness of the people.

The rapid economic development over the last 30 years has changed life in the emirates beyond recognition in many ways. However, the country's rulers are very aware of the danger that their traditional heritage will be eroded by the speed of development and increased access to outside cultures and material goods. Hence, they are keen to promote cultural or sporting events that are representative of their past, such as falconry, camel racing or dhow sailing. (Although ironically a large proportion of local entertainment focuses less on traditional pastimes and more on shopping and shopping festivals). However, traditional aspects of life are still apparent, most obviously in the clothes. On the whole the national population still choose to wear the traditional dress.

For men this is the 'dishdash(a)' or 'khandura' - a white full length shirt-dress, which is worn with a white or red checked headdress, known as a 'gutra'. This is secured with a black cord called an 'agal'. Sheikhs or important businessmen may also wear a thin black robe or 'mishlah', over their dishdasha. In public the women wear the black 'abaya' - a long, loose black robe that covers their normal clothes, plus a headscarf. The abaya is often of very sheer, flowing fabric and may be open at the front. Some women also wear a thin black veil hiding their face and/or gloves, while older women sometimes wear a mask, known as a 'burkha' which covers the nose, brow and cheekbones. Underneath the abaya women traditionally wear a long tunic over loose, flowing trousers ('sirwall'), which are often heavily embroidered and fitted at the wrists and ankles. However, these are used more by the older generation and modern women will often wear trousers or a long skirt.

Arabic culture in poetry, dancing, songs and traditional art is encouraged and weddings and celebrations are still colorfull occasions of feasting and music.

The ancient art of training falcons to hunt still thrives in Dubai, continuing a Middle Eastern tradition that has fascinating insight into the close bonds that can exist between man and bird.

The traditional practice of painting henna on the hands and feet, especially for weddings or special occasions, is still very popular with the national population. The intricate brown patterns fade after 2-3 weeks. For visitors to the emirates, a design on the ankle or shoulder can make a great momento of a visit here and costs only about Dhs. 30 (approx. $8 or $9)

In an attempt to give visitors a clearer appreciation of the Emirati way of life, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding has been established to help bridge the gap between cultures.

Arabic names have a formal structure that traditionally indicated the family and tribe of the person. Names usually start with that of and important person from the Koran or someone from the tribe. This is followed by the word 'bin' (son of) for a boy or 'bint' (daughter of) for a girl, then the name of child's father. The last name indicates the person's tribe or family. For prominent families, this has 'Al', the Arabic word for 'the' immediately before it. For instance, the President of the UAE is His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nayhan. When women get married, they do not change their name.

Language

The official language of the country is Arabic, although English, Urdu and Hindi are spoken and, with some perseverance, understood! Arabic is the official business language, but English is widely used and most road and shop signs, restaurant menus etc. are in both languages.

Religion

Islam is the official religion of the UAE, but other religions are respected. Dubai has a variety of Christian churches; Holy Trinity, Evangical Community Church, International Christian Church, St. Mary's (Roman Catholic) and St. Thomas Orthodox Church. Sharjah and the Northern Emirates also have a range of churches.

Islam

The basis of Islam, is the belief that there is only one God and that the Prophet Mohammed (Peace Be Upon Him), is his messenger. There are five pillars of the faith, which all Muslims must follow; the Profession of Faith, Prayer, Charity, Fasting and Pilgrimage. Every Muslim is expected, at least once in their lifetime, to make the pilgrimage or 'Hajj' to the holy city of Mecca (also spelt Makkah) in Saudi Arabia.

Additionally a Muslim is required to pray to Mecca 5 times a day. The times vary according to the position of the sun. Most people pray at a Mosque, although it's not unusual to see them kneeling by the side of the road if one is not near. It is not considered polite to stare at people praying or to walk over prayer mats.

The modern day call to prayer, through loudspeakers on the minarets of each mosque, ensures that everyone knows it's time to pray.

In Dubai, the city's plan is to build enough mosques, so that residents do not have to walk more than 500 meters to pray at one. Friday is the holy day.

Ramadan

In Islam, Ramadan is the holy month in which Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Koran (the holy book of Islam, also spelt Quran). It is a time of fasting when Muslims abstain from all food, drinks, cigarettes and unclean thoughts between dawn and dusk. In the evening, the fast is broken with the Iftar feast.

The timing of Ramadan is not fixed in terms of the Western calendar, but each year it occurs approximately 11 days earlier than the previous year, with the start depending on the sighting of the moon. Non-Muslims are also required to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public places during this time as a sign of respect. The sale of alcohol is restricted to after dusk and office hours are cut, while shops and parks usually open and close later. In addition, entertainment, such as live music is stopped and cinemas limit daytime screenings of films.

Ramadan ends with a three day celebration and holiday called Eid Al Fitr, or "Feast of the Breaking of the Fast'. Seventy days later is another Eid holiday and celebration called Eid Al Adha, or 'Feast of the Sacrifice' and this marks the end of the pilgrimage season to Mecca. For Muslims, Eid has similar connotations as Diwali for Hindus and Christmas for Christians.

A camel race - bred for the track and reared on a highly nutritous diet, the careers, health and breeding potential of the camels are closely monitored. Racing camels can change hands for as much as Dhs. 10 million (approx. $2.7 million). Races take place in the winter months.

A Khanjur and belt display.

The traditional Ayyalah dance depicts a battle scene, singing and brandishing camel sticks, the line of men advances and retreats while the girls the girls encourage them by swinging their long hair.

The role of women

Quotes from the President of the UAE:

"Nothing could delight me more than to see Woman taking up her distinctive position in society... Nothing should hinder her progress... Like men, women deserve the right to occupy high positions according to their capabilities and qualifications."

"We expect our young women to support and to proceed in accordance with all that is undertaken by their brothers, the young men of the United Arab Emirates, so that there may be fruitful cooperation between them in all spheres."

And his wife, Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, says: "We have not yet reached the target for which we strive, but we are sure that we are making substantial progress along the right path."

The women of what has become the UAE never simply stayed at home. In the pre-oil society, women in the mountains and oases played active and vital roles in agriculture. In the coastal areas where fishing and pearling were the main occupations, men were often away from home for extended periods. Women were thus left to bring up children, care for the old and infirm, and look after farms and livestock. These were considerable responsibilities and they were usually discharged with competence and awareness.

Women also played major roles in tribal affairs though admittedly often behind the scenes. The mother of the President, Sheikha Salamah for example, was to a large extent responsible for the way in which her sons worked together to bring the Emirate of Abu Dhabi through the trying times of the world economic depression and the Second World War into the beginnings of the oil era.

Tradition did mean, however, that as the country developed and its men moved to seize opportunities for education and advancement, there was a danger that women might be left behind. Fortunately, that has not occurred nor is it now likely to.


	Amanda Jane Edwicker \| home Geography \| History \| Culture & Lifestyle \| Other Information \| Pictures of Dubai Culture & Lifestyle Culture Dubai's culture is firmly rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia. Islam is more than just a religion, it is a way of life that governs even the minutiae of everyday events, from what to wear to what to eat and drink. Thus the culture and heritage of the UAE is tied to its religion. In parts of the world, Islamic fundamentalism has given the 'outside' world a very extreme, blanket view of the religion. However, in contrast to this image, the UAE is tolerant and welcoming, foreigners are free to practice their own religion, alcohol is served in hotels and the dress code is liberal. Women face little discrimination and, contrary to the policies of Saudi Arabia and Iran, are able to drive and walk around unescorted. Among the most highly prized virtues are courtesy and hospitality and visitors are sure to be charmed by the genuine warmth and friendliness of the people. The rapid economic development over the last 30 years has changed life in the emirates beyond recognition in many ways. However, the country's rulers are very aware of the danger that their traditional heritage will be eroded by the speed of development and increased access to outside cultures and material goods. Hence, they are keen to promote cultural or sporting events that are representative of their past, such as falconry, camel racing or dhow sailing. (Although ironically a large proportion of local entertainment focuses less on traditional pastimes and more on shopping and shopping festivals). However, traditional aspects of life are still apparent, most obviously in the clothes. On the whole the national population still choose to wear the traditional dress. For men this is the 'dishdash(a)' or 'khandura' - a white full length shirt-dress, which is worn with a white or red checked headdress, known as a 'gutra'. This is secured with a black cord called an 'agal'. Sheikhs or important businessmen may also wear a thin black robe or 'mishlah', over their dishdasha. In public the women wear the black 'abaya' - a long, loose black robe that covers their normal clothes, plus a headscarf. The abaya is often of very sheer, flowing fabric and may be open at the front. Some women also wear a thin black veil hiding their face and/or gloves, while older women sometimes wear a mask, known as a 'burkha' which covers the nose, brow and cheekbones. Underneath the abaya women traditionally wear a long tunic over loose, flowing trousers ('sirwall'), which are often heavily embroidered and fitted at the wrists and ankles. However, these are used more by the older generation and modern women will often wear trousers or a long skirt. Arabic culture in poetry, dancing, songs and traditional art is encouraged and weddings and celebrations are still colorfull occasions of feasting and music. The ancient art of training falcons to hunt still thrives in Dubai, continuing a Middle Eastern tradition that has fascinating insight into the close bonds that can exist between man and bird. The traditional practice of painting henna on the hands and feet, especially for weddings or special occasions, is still very popular with the national population. The intricate brown patterns fade after 2-3 weeks. For visitors to the emirates, a design on the ankle or shoulder can make a great momento of a visit here and costs only about Dhs. 30 (approx. $8 or $9) In an attempt to give visitors a clearer appreciation of the Emirati way of life, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding has been established to help bridge the gap between cultures. Arabic names have a formal structure that traditionally indicated the family and tribe of the person. Names usually start with that of and important person from the Koran or someone from the tribe. This is followed by the word 'bin' (son of) for a boy or 'bint' (daughter of) for a girl, then the name of child's father. The last name indicates the person's tribe or family. For prominent families, this has 'Al', the Arabic word for 'the' immediately before it. For instance, the President of the UAE is His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nayhan. When women get married, they do not change their name. Language The official language of the country is Arabic, although English, Urdu and Hindi are spoken and, with some perseverance, understood! Arabic is the official business language, but English is widely used and most road and shop signs, restaurant menus etc. are in both languages. Religion Islam is the official religion of the UAE, but other religions are respected. Dubai has a variety of Christian churches; Holy Trinity, Evangical Community Church, International Christian Church, St. Mary's (Roman Catholic) and St. Thomas Orthodox Church. Sharjah and the Northern Emirates also have a range of churches. Islam The basis of Islam, is the belief that there is only one God and that the Prophet Mohammed (Peace Be Upon Him), is his messenger. There are five pillars of the faith, which all Muslims must follow; the Profession of Faith, Prayer, Charity, Fasting and Pilgrimage. Every Muslim is expected, at least once in their lifetime, to make the pilgrimage or 'Hajj' to the holy city of Mecca (also spelt Makkah) in Saudi Arabia. Additionally a Muslim is required to pray to Mecca 5 times a day. The times vary according to the position of the sun. Most people pray at a Mosque, although it's not unusual to see them kneeling by the side of the road if one is not near. It is not considered polite to stare at people praying or to walk over prayer mats. The modern day call to prayer, through loudspeakers on the minarets of each mosque, ensures that everyone knows it's time to pray. In Dubai, the city's plan is to build enough mosques, so that residents do not have to walk more than 500 meters to pray at one. Friday is the holy day. Ramadan In Islam, Ramadan is the holy month in which Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Koran (the holy book of Islam, also spelt Quran). It is a time of fasting when Muslims abstain from all food, drinks, cigarettes and unclean thoughts between dawn and dusk. In the evening, the fast is broken with the Iftar feast. The timing of Ramadan is not fixed in terms of the Western calendar, but each year it occurs approximately 11 days earlier than the previous year, with the start depending on the sighting of the moon. Non-Muslims are also required to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public places during this time as a sign of respect. The sale of alcohol is restricted to after dusk and office hours are cut, while shops and parks usually open and close later. In addition, entertainment, such as live music is stopped and cinemas limit daytime screenings of films. Ramadan ends with a three day celebration and holiday called Eid Al Fitr, or "Feast of the Breaking of the Fast'. Seventy days later is another Eid holiday and celebration called Eid Al Adha, or 'Feast of the Sacrifice' and this marks the end of the pilgrimage season to Mecca. For Muslims, Eid has similar connotations as Diwali for Hindus and Christmas for Christians. A camel race - bred for the track and reared on a highly nutritous diet, the careers, health and breeding potential of the camels are closely monitored. Racing camels can change hands for as much as Dhs. 10 million (approx. $2.7 million). Races take place in the winter months. A Khanjur and belt display. The traditional Ayyalah dance depicts a battle scene, singing and brandishing camel sticks, the line of men advances and retreats while the girls the girls encourage them by swinging their long hair. The role of women Quotes from the President of the UAE: "Nothing could delight me more than to see Woman taking up her distinctive position in society... Nothing should hinder her progress... Like men, women deserve the right to occupy high positions according to their capabilities and qualifications." "We expect our young women to support and to proceed in accordance with all that is undertaken by their brothers, the young men of the United Arab Emirates, so that there may be fruitful cooperation between them in all spheres." And his wife, Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, says: "We have not yet reached the target for which we strive, but we are sure that we are making substantial progress along the right path." The women of what has become the UAE never simply stayed at home. In the pre-oil society, women in the mountains and oases played active and vital roles in agriculture. In the coastal areas where fishing and pearling were the main occupations, men were often away from home for extended periods. Women were thus left to bring up children, care for the old and infirm, and look after farms and livestock. These were considerable responsibilities and they were usually discharged with competence and awareness. Women also played major roles in tribal affairs though admittedly often behind the scenes. The mother of the President, Sheikha Salamah for example, was to a large extent responsible for the way in which her sons worked together to bring the Emirate of Abu Dhabi through the trying times of the world economic depression and the Second World War into the beginnings of the oil era. Tradition did mean, however, that as the country developed and its men moved to seize opportunities for education and advancement, there was a danger that women might be left behind. Fortunately, that has not occurred nor is it now likely to.