The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a remarkable country situated in the middle of the Middle East. It features both modern marvels and ancient traditions. The most profound aspect of Emirati culture is it’s customs, traditions, and of course, the Arabic language. These are not merely cultural identifying features, but rather building blocks of the nation’s identity. Now, I want to share with you how history has shaped Arabic and Emirati life in this wonderful country.
Arabic: More Than Just Words – It’s the Soul of the UAE
When someone talks about the UAE, the first thing that pops in their mind is modern shopping, luxury, and tourist attractions like skyscrapers. But everything has a bound, and in this case the bound is the language Arabic. Arabic is associated to the country’s motor and still remains the single unifying factor in everything. Emiratis speak it in a unique dialect called Gulf Arabic, which represents the region’s historical heritage as well as its aspirations.
The local dialect also known as Gulf Arabic is not the same as Modern Standard Arabic used by the media and literature. Unlike the latter, it is filled with phrases that depict local traditions and social subtleties. Every single word captures a glimpse of the vast world together with deep cherished family values.
Some important key phrases are:
As-salaam alaykum (السلام عليكم) – “Peace be upon you” (used to wish someone well)
Masha’Allah (ما شاء الله) – “What God has willed” (used to show admiration)
Alhamdulillah (الحمد لله) – “Praise be to God” (used to show gratitude)
Knowing a few key phrases is helpful, but above all, it demonstrates an attempt to appreciate the culture and build relationships with Emiratis who will admire your approach.
Arabic Calligraphy: The Art of the Written Word
No matter where in the world you go, every language has a peculiar form of artistic representation. In the UAE, Arabic Calligraphy is held in high esteem as one of the most ancient art forms. Because of its graceful curves and fluid strokes, it finds its place on the walls of mosques and palaces and even on the streets.
Emirati Customs: A Tapestry of Tradition
The UAE stands as a lighthouse of innovation and development, but its culture is something that still holds importance to it. Learning and understanding its customs gives a person profound insights into the life routines of the Emirates and gives them a better understanding of the East. Here is a brief overview of some important details related to Emirati customs:
- Generosity: The Domain Of Emirati Hospitality
The UAE enjoys a quiet fame for its hospitality, which is a sufficiently common custom. In the event that you receive an invitation to an Emirati home, get ready to be treated like a monarch. Sharing of food and beverages, which includes Arabic coffee (Gahwa) and dates, is offered not as courtesy but rather is considered an obligation. The guest is being honored and respect is being shown to the guest. - The Spirit Of Family
Everything revolves around family in the UAE. You should bow down to elders as it is highly reinforced, and the wider family is an important part of everyday life. It is frequented for several generations to live within the vicinity, and all of them usually join together to relish the company, which includes children and grandparents. There is a healthy and strong sense of community here and friendships tend to feel more like familial bonds. - Modesty in Fashion
In the UAE, modesty is a vital value, specifically in clothing. The country is modern compared to several others in the region. Still, visitors are advised to observe modesty in dress code while in public areas. Women usually wear abaya, a long black robe with a hijab covering in formal settings or religious services. For men, long sleeves and trousers are the standards.
- Ramadan: A Time for Reflection
The month of Ramadan is sacred for Muslims, being a time of self-reflection. Emiratis spend this month fasting, refraining from food and drinks from dawn to dusk. This practice cultivates compassion towards those who have less while deepening their connection with Allah. The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called Iftar, which is celebrated with friends and family.
- Falconry: The Royal Sport
We cannot complete the discussion regarding Emirati customs without adding falconry, a practice that started centuries ago. In the UAE, falcons are regarded with immense fondness and are, more often than not, pampered. These magnificent creatures are considered the epitome of power, freedom and strength, and even today, falconry is practiced as a sport and tradition. Indeed, there are cultural festivals and competitions where falcons are shown off as they are bestowed with their own passports.
Modern UAE Meets Tradition
The UAE is one of the most modern and progressive nations in the Middle East, but with all the forward-looking prospects, the country respects its deep-rooted traditions. The astounding development of cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi— which have some of the most famous skyscrapers in the world— is juxtaposed with the Arabic culture and hospitality that keeps the soul of the nation alive.
Tourists to the UAE and its locals are encouraged to familiarize themselves with its language, as calligraphy, custom, and traditions in one’s native tongue offer deeper insights into its culture. Learning Arabic enables the traveler to appreciate traditions as well as modern developments in this breathtaking country. Hence, get ready to be introduced to the world of fantastically charming Arabic.