Besides being known for its astounding modern skyline, luxury shopping, and vibrant lifestyle, the rich heritage and culture of the Arab world thrive in Dubai. It holds in store a spectrum of traditional activities that await one for an authentically Arabian experience in Dubai- letting one fully indulge in the region’s history, traditions, and way of life.
From taking a ride on the camels across the deserts to savoring aromatic hookah electric in typical ambiance, here is how you can take a sneak peek at the authentic Arabic culture of Dubai.
1. Camel Rides and Desert Safaris
Of course, no visit to Dubai would be complete without taking in the Arabian city’s endless, undulating deserts. Camel rides give a taste of the old Bedouin style of life, where these dignified creatures were once the main mode of transportation across the parched expanse. Many tour operators offer escorted camel hikes, sometimes as part of broader desert safaris.
These safaris promise a thrill of dune bashing in 4x4s, traditional Arabic entertainment that includes belly dancing and the famous Tanoura performances, and feasting sumptuously on an Arabian feast under the stars. You are taken in some of these tours to a Bedouin campsite where tourists can understand the art of survival in deserts and some handicrafts. The golden hues of the desert during the sunset, along with the rhythmic gait of the camel, make for an unforgettable experience.
2. Explore Al Fahidi Historic District
Experience old Dubai at Al Fahidi Historic District: narrow lanes, wind towers, and centuries-old architecture, as removed from Dubai’s modern skyscrapers as it gets. Al Fahidi is a living homage to Dubai’s past, a show that this little fishing village has grown into a global city.
Wander through the district to see traditional Arabian houses, art galleries, and museums like the Dubai Museum, which is situated in a historic Al Fahidi Fort. Indeed, it might be the perfect place to understand the emirate’s history with its exhibits containing ancient artifacts, pearl diving tools, and depictions of Dubai’s everyday life pre-oil boom.
3. Enjoy Authentic Emirati Cuisine
It is said that food forms a big part of any cultural experience, and Dubai has plenty of traditional Emirati cuisine that reflects its Bedouin sands and coastal location. For an authentic taste of Emirati dishes, check out local restaurants like Al Fanar or SMCCU’s cultural lunches and dinners for the aromatic rice dish machboos, cooked with spice-smeared meat or fish, or luqaimat, sweet dumplings oozing with date syrup.
Sign up for a cultural dining experience at SMCCU, which includes the opportunity to sample traditional Emirati cuisine and learn about local customs, etiquette, and the role of food in Emirati life. Make sure to have Arabic coffee-so-called gahwa-and dates, a common welcoming treat throughout the region.
4. Experience Traditional Arabic Markets (Souks)
The traditional markets or souks of Dubai are the places one should never miss in the quest for a colorful trade culture in the Middle East. The Gold Souk enchants you with row after row of glittering gold jewelry, while the Spice Souk titillates your senses with an array of herbs, spices, and incense. Equally unmissable is the Textile Souk, selling glossy fabrics and embroidered garments.
Wandering through these bustling marketplaces, you’ll be able to practice the art of bargaining and immerse yourself in the rich energy of old-world commerce. Many of these souks come upon the Dubai Creek, where the traditional abras make for a short but pretty ride across the water, giving new perspectives on the city’s older trading quarters.
5. Indulge in Shisha at a Traditional Cafe
No cultural experience in Dubai would be complete without enjoying shisha, one of the names for a hookah or water pipe, in a traditional cafe. For Arabs, smoking shisha is a social activity that features flavored tobacco and is usually enjoyed in the company of friends and family.
Take your dose of serenity at Al Shindagha Heritage Village or Khan Murjan at Wafi Mall, with strong mint tea or Arabic coffee and relaxed aromatic smoke from shisha. Middle Eastern decor will remind you to take your time and see and learn about the culture around you.
Modern Dubai seems to eclipse more of the traditionally rooted Arabic flair, discover historic districts with the local flavors, go on camel rides, and participate in traditional activities like shisha. All in all, this shows the true heart and pulse of this vibrant city, be it the serenity of the desert or the lively rhythm of its souks; Dubai is full of ways to dip into the varied culture of the Arabs.