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Traditional Dress of UAE For Female & Male

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There are only a few countries where the culture and traditions are openly represented by the locals and UAE is among those countries which take pride in exhibiting their culture through their traditional dress.

When it comes to choosing attire for them, Emiratis are very much concerned about it and take their traditional dress very seriously. They stick to their traditional dress as it makes them feel close to their rich cultural values.

UAE is the land of glitz and glam, but when it comes to their traditions, they keep it comfortable while also being close to their religious beliefs. If you are visiting UAE, you might have seen the locals in particular UAE traditional dress, favoring modesty and comfort simultaneously. Since the weather is hot most of the time, traditional attire also protects the skin from hot and warm weather conditions.

Importance of traditional dress for Emiratistraditional dress for Emiratis

In a country such as the UAE, where the majority of the population is foreigners, the local Emiratis feel delighted to represent themselves through their traditional clothing. In most of the states of UAE, you will see people following their traditional dressing style more strictly as it differentiates them from foreigners and also provides them with an identity of being a local Emirati.

Dubai is an exception because thousands of people from all across the world visit Dubai every year, and with such touristy influence, it is not possible to opt for a specific dress code here. In the remaining states of UAE, The Emiratis are conservative about Emirati clothes and do not limit them only to specific events and celebrations.

Since the world is not aware of the Islamic dressing style and UAE is an Islamic country, it aims to make the world aware of Islamic traditions through their modest attires.

Traditional Dress of UAE for Females

The traditional dress of UAE for women revolves around the black color. From Abaya to Burqa, you will see the majority of females wearing black traditional attire. These can also be in light colors, depending on personal preference.

1. AbayaAbaya

Abaya is the traditional outfit of an Emirati woman, and she keeps plenty of them in her closet. Abaya is basically a black-colored loose cloak that is flowy and is worn on top of the clothes. You can wear the outfit of your choice under the dark-colored Abaya. It covers the body from top to bottom except for the feet and palms.

Abaya is not limited only to UAE, but in the majority of Islamic countries, women wear an abaya to show their Islamic identity and to keep themselves covered. Traditional Abaya is usually plain black; however, a bit of embellishment and embroideries along with modern cuts can also be seen, which are quite popular among Emirati females. It can be made with cotton, linen, or crepe which is a commonly used material for Abayas. The Abaya designs introduced by Chanel and Dior have made people from all across the world to know and explore this UAE national dress for females.

2. Shylashyla

Abaya is worn with Shyla which is used to cover the head. Shyla or also known as Shela and Shaila, is basically a headscarf that is draped loosely around the head. It is a long rectangular scarf that is put across the shoulders to the head. Shyla is usually black in color. There are various other colors and designs that one may choose accordingly.

3. BurqaBurqa

Although Burqa is not very much popular among Young Emirati females, it is still worn by an older generation of Emirati women. The burqa is a kind of facemask that is designed to cover the entire body along with the face except for the eyes. In South Asia, the concept of Burqa is to cover the body from head to toe in a loose attire; however, in Gulf, Burqa has some strict principles attached to it. It gives a distinctive look and comes with a mask.

The mask is designed in a way that covers the forehead and upper lips in a distinctive pattern. These masks are made of metallic cloth and save a female’s face from the heat and dust while also symbolizing her connection to the Gulf states.

4. GishwahGishwah

Some Emirati women also like to cover their faces with a see-through layer of Gishwah that covers the entire face, including the eyes. The fabric is light in weight and somehow hides the facial identity to symbolize the female’s modesty.

5. JalabiyyaJalabiyya

The Emirati Jalabiyya epitomizes the grace of a female and is common among the females of Gulf states. Jalabiyya or commonly known as Kaftan is a long, flowy, and comfortable robe that comes in a variety of colors and prints. Kaftans are usually embroidered or have fancy embellishments and are worn by females on special occasions.

The Emirati females wear Jalabiyyas even with gold embroidery that truly depicts how important this Arabic dress is for them. Made with fancy fabric and gleaming threads, Kaftans can also by the brides as the bride’s gown. The bright colors of Kaftan and the flowy material make this UAE dress quite popular around the world.

Henna – a vital part of Arabic traditions.

Henna is very much popular among Emirati females who put it on their hands and feet on special occasions such as Eid, weddings, or any intimate gatherings. Henna is a common cultural representation of Arabic women who put it on bringing good luck and prosperity. The fragrance of Henna is loved by almost everyone and has a very vital role to play in Arabic traditions.

Traditional Dress of UAE for Male

Just like females, Emirati males as well, follow traditional dressing styles to make themselves recognized as the local citizen of the UAE.

1. KanduraKandura

Kandura is an ankle-length robe that has loose fitting and is usually white in color. Although beige and grey colored Kandura can be seen worn by the males, white is the common color of Kandura. It is also referred to as Thawb, Thobe, and Dishdasha in many Arabian countries, but the Emirati Kandura dress is a bit different from the rest. Emirati Kandura is collarless and has slight embroidery on the sleeves.

This full-sleeved cloak is made of cotton fabric to keep the body comfortable even during the humid and hot weather. A vest called Faneela is worn under Kandura. A white cloth called Wazoor is worn around the waist underneath Kandura. Interestingly, the length of the Kandura also represents the status of the Emirati for example. The long robes are frequently worn by elite and royal Emiratis, while the shorter length robes are worn by the common people of the Emirate.

2. GhutrahGhutrah

Ghutrah is an integral part of the Emirati dress for males. It is basically a headdress worn by Emirati males to cover their heads from the scorching sun, heat, and dust. Made with light cotton fabric, Ghutrah is a square piece of cloth with smooth finishings. There are various styles to wear and every style represents the status of the Emirati.

In UAE, you will see men wearing Ghutrah in red color and chequered pattern that is inspired by the neighboring Arabian countries. To hold Ghutrah in place, Agal is placed around the head that does not let Ghutrah slide away from its position

3. Agalagal

Agal is used with Ghutrah to keep it in place. It is like a band that is wrapped around the head over Ghutrah or Shemagh. It is a circular band that looks like two rings when worn on the head. Many Emiratis do not wear Agal in regular routines, but for special occasions, one cannot miss out on wearing Agal. With a few tassels at the end of the two cords, Emirati Agals also look aesthetically pleasing.

Agals are available in multi-colors as well and have beautiful tassels that look trendy. The use of Agal is very much common among Arabian scholars around the globe.

4. Bishtbisht

Another beautiful piece of traditional clothing worn by Emirati males that truly depicts the rich culture of the Gulf states. Bisht is similar in almost every Arabian country and is worn on specific ceremonies.

Bisht is a sleeveless cloak that is worn over the Kandura and has sophisticated embroidered embellishments all over. Further decorated with gold or silver linings, Bisht is a piece of art and requires high craftsman skills to create this luxurious traditional dress of UAE. Bisht is even worn by grooms on their wedding day. For special ceremonies, royal Emiratis wear Bisht to represent their traditions. During Eid prayers and sermons, you may have also seen Imams in the UAE wearing Bisht.

Bisht comes in various styles and materials such as cotton, polyester, linen, and camel wool. The price range depends upon the material and fabric being used in crafting Bisht.

Dressing tips for tourists

Since some of the states of the UAE are pretty strict about their traditions, it does not let you disrespect any of its cultural norms. If you are visiting UAE or planning to visit it anytime soon, you are advised to follow a dressing style that is not too bold or too contradicting to their dressing protocols.

For the tourists, there are a few tips that you may follow on your visit to UAE.

  • Generally, UAE is strict when it comes to covering the body, be it male or female. So, it is advised to cover yourself at least from your shoulders to your knees.
  • Carry a headscarf in your bag.
  • Do not wear dresses that are see-through from the chest, abdomen, or leg areas.
  • If you are visiting any religious place in UAE, do not forget to cover your head properly.
  • In Ramadan, the rules may get stricter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Battoulah?

Battoulah is another name used for Burqa which is a traditional long dress that covers the female’s body from head to toe including the face as well.

What is the difference between Ghutrah and Shemagh?

Ghutrah is white in color while Shemagh has a red chequered pattern on white cloth.

What is the traditional footwear for Emirati men?

The traditional footwear from Emirati men is a traditional sandal called Na-aal.

What are the popular traditional fragrances of Emiratis?

Oud (Agarwood) and Rose are the traditional scents used by Emiratis. Burning Bakhoor in their homes is also a common practice among them.

What is the difference between Abaya and Kandura?

Abaya is a long loose gown worn by Emirati females while Kandura is a long and flowy cloak worn by Emirati males.

Is there any dress code in UAE?

In UAE, Emiratis wear modest clothes which symbolize their traditions. Generally, males wear Kandura while females wear Abaya.

Is Hijab allowed in UAE?

UAE is an Islamic country where modest dressing is encouraged at every stage. Hijab is worn to cover the head and neck according to Islamic dressing protocols.

Can a female walk alone in UAE?

Yes. UAE is among the top safest countries for solo female travelers. Wherever part of UAE you are in, you can safely and fearlessly walk around alone.

Is flirting allowed in UAE?

Flirting is strictly prohibited in UAE and one can even get strict punishments if found flirting.

Bottom line

UAE has so much glitter and glam to offer but when it comes to giving respect to their culture and traditions, the Emiratis do not compromise at all. This is another reason behind the massive growth of this region. They do not disrespect or forget the traditions and laws set by their ancestors.

When you are visiting UAE, it is important to follow the tourists’ guidelines to enjoy the trip at its best. While clothing may not consider a very vital element in most parts of the world, this is not the case in UAE. There is traditionally deep-rooted nations and they take pride in representing themselves this way.

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Family Fun in Dubai: Activities for All Ages

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Activities for All Ages

Dubai, often associated with luxury and grandeur, is also an incredible destination for families looking for fun and memorable experiences. With a plethora of activities tailored for children and adults alike, Dubai offers a blend of education, entertainment, and excitement that caters to every family member. From world-class theme parks to educational museums and outdoor adventures, Dubai ensures that every family trip is packed with joy and learning.

Theme Parks and Entertainment Centers

One of the highlights for any family visiting Dubai is its vast array of theme parks. IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world’s largest indoor theme park, offers thrilling rides themed around popular characters from Marvel and Cartoon Network. Meanwhile, LEGOLAND Dubai provides interactive experiences that both entertain and stimulate creativity in children, making it a perfect spot for younger kids. For families who enjoy water activities, Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm, offers a fun-filled day with water slides, a shark tunnel, and a chance to relax on its private beach.

Educational Museums and Cultural Attractions

Dubai is also home to an impressive range of museums and cultural attractions that are both fun and educational. The Dubai Museum, located in the historic Al Fahidi Fort, provides insights into the traditional way of life in the Emirates. For a more hands-on educational experience, the OliOli Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity among young minds. These cultural venues offer families a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage and history in an engaging and accessible way.

Car Rental in Dubai for Family Convenience

Exploring Dubai with your family requires flexibility and ease of travel. Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to navigate the city, especially with family in tow. By visiting https://drive.yango.com, families can choose from a wide selection of vehicles to find one that best suits their needs, ensuring comfort during their travels across the city. Having a rental car means you can easily transition from one attraction to another, making the most out of your family vacation without the stress of public transportation.

Luxurious Family Rides with a Bentley Bentayga

For families seeking to add a touch of luxury to their travel experience in Dubai, renting a high-end vehicle like the Bentley Bentayga can enhance the journey immensely. The Bentayga, known for its supreme comfort and exceptional performance, offers ample space and is equipped with state-of-the-art features that ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. To explore rental options for this luxury SUV, visit https://drive.yango.com/rent-cars-dubai/all/bentley/bentayga and treat your family to an unforgettable ride around Dubai.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Experiences

Dubai might be famous for its skyscrapers, but it also offers numerous outdoor activities that allow families to connect with nature. The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve provides opportunities for desert safaris, camel rides, and sandboarding, which can be exciting for both children and adults. Additionally, the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary offers a chance to observe flamingos and other wildlife in their natural habitat, providing a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Culinary Adventures for the Whole Family

Dubai’s food scene is as diverse as its population, and dining out can be a delightful experience for families. The city offers a vast range of dining options suitable for children, from casual eateries with dedicated kids’ menus to themed restaurants that turn a meal into an adventure. Trying local dishes or enjoying cuisine from around the world can also be a fun way for families to explore new flavors together.

Dubai presents a fantastic array of activities that cater to families with children of all ages, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. With the convenience of car rental services like Yango, families can enjoy the freedom to explore Dubai at their own pace, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether cruising in a luxurious Bentley Bentayga or discovering the natural beauty and rich culture of the Emirates, Dubai offers an enriching experience for every family.

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Best Indian Restaurants in Dubai That Are a Must Try

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Indian Restaurants in Dubai

When it comes to Indian restaurants in Dubai, you can find all kinds of setups, from chain restaurants to Michelin-star Indian restaurants. There are so many options that it will leave you spoilt for choices. We have made a list of the best Indian restaurants in Dubai that are a must-try; check out how many have you tried! And if not, consider these for your next Indian food cravings.

1. Antique BazaarAntique Bazaar Resturant Dubai

This restaurant will have you travel to the times when Kings ruled India! The whole décor of this place will make you feel that you have entered a Mahal (an Indian Palace). The place has a rustic vibe, plus the menu of this place is inspired by the “Shahi Kitchen” that operated during the king’s era in India. Every dish will have an explosion of flavors in your mouth! By far, Antique Bazar is one of the classiest dine-out options in Bur Dubai.

Some of the dishes that you must not miss at Antique Bazaar are:

  • Gosht Angar
  • Kabuli Chaat
  • Machli Amritsari
  • Sheekh Subz Bahar
Location Four Points by Sheraton, Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road, Bur Dubai Al Hamriya, Dubai
Contact Number +971 4 397 7444
Opening Hours Daily: 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, 6 PM sy 12 AM
Price Range AED 225 for two persons

2. Indego by VineetIndego by Vineet Reaturant Dubai

Vineet Bhatia is a Michelin-starred Indian celebrity chef who has created an Indian restaurant named Indego in Dubai. Vineet is known for his fusion dishes that have a hint of traditional taste along with a modern presentation, and you can expect the same thing in the menu of Indego. The USP of this restaurant is that it uses only authentic Indian spices along with fresh ingredients. The Dishes that are served at Indego restaurant look exquisite and Instagram- post-worthy. You can spot this Michelin-recommended restaurant in Dubai Marina

some dishes that are a must-try here are:

  • Kabab Platter
  • Rogan Josh
  • Butter Chicken
  • Biryani
Location Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dubai
Contact Number +971 4 317 6000
Opening Hours Weekdays: 7 PM to 12 AM, Weekends: 1 PM to 4 PM, 7 PM to 12 AM
Price Range AED 650 for two persons
Website www.indegobyvineet.com

3. Rang MahalRang Mahal Restaurant in Dubai

The name of the restaurant itself sounds so Indian & so opulent that you would want to visit this restaurant for the mere experience of grandeur. Rang Mahal is a perfect combination of colorful ambiance set up in a classy way. An International Michelin-starred celebrity chef owns this restaurant, and he has put in all his culinary experience to make this restaurant a fantastic spot to have Indian food. You will find deliciously made food from different corners of India at Rang Mahal, and each of the dishes will have your mouth explode with delicious flavors. You can count on Rang Mahal even for Iftar dinner in Dubai.

Some dishes that are not to be missed here are:

  • Soft Shell Crab
  • Fish Fry
  • Kori Kempu
  • Keema Toast
Location JW Marriott Marquis Dubai – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Business Bay – Dubai
Contact Number +971 4 414 3000
Opening Hours 6 PM to 12 AM
Price Range AED 440 for two persons

5. GharanaGharana Restaurant Dubai

The word “Gharana” literally translates to family, and that is what this place will make you feel like (a restaurant that has a homely feel to it!). If you want to experience not only authentic Indian food but also Indian culture, Indian (Bollywood) music, and Indian hospitality, then you should pay a visit to Gharana. As soon as you step inside this restaurant, you will feel you have entered the heart of India. This restaurant starts only for early dinner, dinner, and late-night dinner (you will find many other late-night restaurants in Dubai, for your late-night cravings!).

A ProTtip: Do not miss out on the delicious Litchi Rabri (a sweet dish) of this place; some other dishes that you must try at Gharana are:

  • Chicken Biryani
  • Nihari Al Subha
  • Murgh Ghazala
Location Sheikh Zayed Road, near Mall of The Emirates, Al Barsha, Al Barsha 1, Dubai
Contact Number +971 4 704 0806
Opening Hours Sunday – Thursday: 6 PM to 12 AM, Friday & Saturday: 6 PM to 1 AM
Price Range AED 275 for two persons
Website www.gharanarestaurant.com

6. Armani AmalArmani Amal

This is an Armani-owned restaurant where Armani himself does the restaurant’s interiors. Armani Amal is all glass-walled, which lets you see the stunning skyline of Dubai while you have your dinner (the place looks exquisite, especially at night!). Apart from having authentic Indian food, it will also be an experience of a lifetime for you. As soon as you step inside the restaurant, you will hear soothing Indian music; also, the service at this restaurant is quick, making your whole experience flawless!

Following are some dishes that you must not miss:

  • Goan Fish Curry
  • Basil Naan Bread
  • Biryani
Location Burj Khalifa, Level 3, Dubai
Contact Number +971 4888 3888
Opening Hours Opens every day from 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM except Sunday
Price Range AED 570 for two persons
Website www.armanihotels.com

7. Bombay ChawpattyBombay Chawpatty Restaurant

Bombay Chawpatty is a chain restaurant that operates in Dubai and feels omnipresent in the whole of Dubai! (There are more than 18 outlets of Bombay Chawpatty in Dubai, and the number is increasing yearly). If you are looking for your comfort Indian food, you can head to the outlet of Bombay Chawpatty; they serve good Indian food, and the spread is quite huge. Right from starters to desserts, you will find everything on their menu and you can also have food delivered to your doorsteps from Bombay Chawpatty. Use the noon food app, where you get discount on online food delivery if you have legit coupons. You can also check out their Buffet menu.

Some dishes that are a must-try here are:

  • Chicken Curry
  • Bhel Puri
  • Masala Chai
  • Dosa
Location Karama Dubai opp. Burjuman Ctr, Al Mankhool
Contact Number +971 56 520 8239
Opening Hours Daily: 10 AM to 12 Midnight
Price Range AED 70 for two persons
Website www.bombaychowpattyuae.com

8. Rangoli RestaurantRangoli Restaurant Dubai

Till now in the article, we have seen opulent hotels with premium price points; however, you need not pay exorbitantly to have delicious Indian food in Dubai. There are restaurants like Rangoli that are known for their food and will not leave a hole in your pocket! If you are away from home for long and crave some home-cooked Indian dishes, Rangoli restaurant will come to your rescue. This place is specifically known for its authentic Gujarati food, but you can order other Indian dishes as well. It has a simple décor but extremely friendly staff. For regular Gujarati dinners, this can be your go-to Indian restaurant in Dubai (for other cuisine like Kerala food in Dubai, you can check out Tamarind Terrace).

The place is known for food options like:

  • Gujarati Thali
  • Chaat
Location Opposite ITL Building, Cosmos Lane, Meena Bazaar, Bur Dubai.
Contact Number +971 4 351 5873
Opening Hours Daily: 8:30 AM to 11:30 PM
Price Range Almost AED 90 for two persons
Website www.rangolirestaurants.com

9. Amritsr RestaurantAmritsr Restaurant Dubai

Whether you are a desperate foodie or looking for some authentic Indian dishes, Amritsr Restaurant has planned its extensive menu to satisfy your cravings. As the name itself truly depicts the Indian cultural vibes, you can expect rich Indian food in the deserted land of Dubai. The place offers a symphony of fine dining that showcases how beautifully Indian cuisine is presented in Indian style. The restaurant gives you the opportunity to relish the Indian taste away from home.

The specialties to try at Amritsr Restaurant are:

  • Pav Bhaji
  • Mango Kulfi
  • Different types of Indian flatbread
  • Chicken Banjara
  • Rajma Masala
Location Al Attar Center, Dubai
Contact Number +971 4547 9576
Opening Hours Remains open 24/7
Price Range Around AED 115 for two persons
Website www.rangolirestaurants.com

10. Purani DilliPurani Dilli Dubai

How mesmerizing and nostalgic the restaurant’s name sounds! It brings back the good old memories one can resonate with old Delhi, and with the traditional flavors being served on the plates, anyone can enjoy the deliciousness and aroma that revives the old traditional vibes. The restaurant aims to introduce the most revered recipes of Delhi in Dubai and serve them in royal etiquettes, which make it an authentic Indian restaurant that truly depicts the royalty of Old Delhi.

Some of the must-haves at Purani Dilli Restaurant are:

  • Chicken Biryani
  • Nihari
  • Beetroot Halwa
  • Paneer Tikka Masala
Location Mankhool Road, 4C Street, Bur Dubai
Contact Number +971 50 211 6816
Opening Hours Daily: 12:30 PM to 1 AM
Price Range Around AED 300 for two persons
Website www.puranidillidubai.com

11. Bombay BrasserieBombay Brasserie Restaurant Dubai

Get ready to experience the diverse gastronomy and rich culinary journey through Indian cuisine at Bombay Brasserie, where you can enjoy the pleasant aroma of vibrant and flavorful dishes. It’s a signature restaurant at Taj Dubai and truly depicts a seamless blend of contemporary and traditional art through its interior. The mural art, botanical bar, and live kitchen are some of the highlights that make dining at Bombay Brasserie an unforgettable experience.

Some dishes to try at Bombay Brasserie include:

  • Seafood Ramen
  • Murg Malai
  • Lasooni Palak Paneer
  • Khajoor Anjeer Halwa
Location Taj Dubai
Contact Number +971 4 438 3100
Opening Hours Daily: 12:30 PM to 3 PM, 6 PM to 11:30 PM
Price Range Around AED 500 for two persons

12. The CrossingThe Crossing Restaurant Dubai

The Crossing is a refined blend of modern Indian aesthetics and traditional flavors where you find well-curated recipes to make you nostalgic about the supreme heritage of the sub-continent. The restaurant celebrates the Indian influence over Dubai and how the residents of the golden land enjoy its flavors. The minimal décor is yet another eye-catching element of The Crossing, and when the traditional, aromatic food is served on the table, you will memorize nothing but just the flavors oozing out of the dishes.

When at The Crossing, don’t forget to try:

  • Rogan Josh
  • Tandoori Salmon
  • Parsi Pulao
  • Gulab Jamun Brulee
Location The H Hotel, 1 Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
Contact Number +971 04 491 9695
Opening Hours 12 PM to 1 AM
Price Range Almost AED 450 for two persons
Website www.crossingtherestaurant.com

13. SthanSthan Restaurant Dubai

Sthan means ‘place’; just like the name, the restaurant presents the evolution of rich Asian food that is an amalgam of high-quality, traditional cuisine and contemporary fine dining. The restaurant is a culinary masterpiece where you will explore rich Asian cuisines, especially from Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan, in a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy homemade food away from home. Sthan is also among those few restaurants where you will find a rich blend of North-west Asian food with a modern touch of West.

Some of the popular dishes at Sthan are:

  • Grilled and tandoori BBQ
  • Raan Irani
  • Murg Kali Mirch
  • Dahi ke Kebab
  • Mango Lassi
Location Zabeel Road, Al Karama, Dubai
Contact Number +971 4 399 7775
Opening Hours Daily: 12 to 11:30 PM Daily
Price Range Almost AED 155 for two persons
Website www.sthan.com

Bottom Line

The diverse traditional and cultural cuisines that are indigenous to the subcontinent are truly reflected in Indian cuisine. Every Indian city has a unique delicacy to offer due to the diversity of its ethnic, cultural, and social groupings. Living in Dubai brings opportunities to explore various cultures and cuisines, and if you want to delve into the richness of Asian cuisine, the above-mentioned restaurants are worth a try. Whether you are a tourist or living in Dubai, enjoying these scrumptious dishes from Indian cuisine will take you on a rollercoaster ride of memories and flavors that stay with you forever.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Name some of the popular street foods of India.

Aalo chana chaat, bhel puri, jhalmuri, poha, dahi vada, kanji vada, kachori, dosa, and pav bhaji are some of the popular street food items of India.

Is Indian cuisine spicy?

There are several Indian dishes which are popular for their spicy flavors but not all Indian dishes are too spicy. There are various Indian dishes which are mild and are still tasted flavorful. In these dishes, the spices are kept minimal and do not produce burning hot sensation to the taste buds.

Name the popular Indian desserts.

Gajar ka Halwa, Gulab Jamun, Kaju Katli, Rasgulla, Mishti Doi, Besan Laddu, and Kheer are some of the popular traditional Indian desserts.

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Discover These Essential Emirati Traditions for Visitors to Know

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Essential Emirati Traditions for Visitors to Know

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Traditions, culture, norms, and lifestyle vary from region to region across our globe. An act considered as a norm in one nation may make you eligible for a year in jail in another. For people who take pleasure in traveling, knowing the basic norms of a state is essential to ensure a safe visit where neither you are affected nor the nationals around you. 

Aligning Norms: Tourists Blending in With Locals 

If you are amongst those willing to take a tour of the UAE, it is advisable to know their norms and culture as they are based on their ancestral history of Arabian, Islamic, Persian, East African, and Indian cultures. Here’s a list of cultural basics tourists should be aware of. 

Welcoming and Greeting the Locals in UAEWelcoming and Greeting the Locals in UAE

Since, the UAE is typically a Muslim majority country, the greeting they have is “Assalamu Alaikum” or in simple language, “May peace be upon you”. The Muslims typically respond with “Wa alaikum Assalam” but say “Wa alaikum” only if you belong to another religion. One should be familiar with this. They are advised to give a better response, a better greeting than the one given to them. (For fellow Muslims). Emiratis also like greeting their visitors warmly. This may involve hugs and handshakes. However, it is against Muslim tradition and culture for men to greet women in this manner.  Women remain reserved as per tradition and religion. In Ramadan especially where such an act breaks the fast. So, if you are here for a visit, do not greet women in this manner. When people enter the religious centers, i.e. the mosques they are expected to shake hands, using both hands is a religious practice. On special occasions such as Eid, Emiratis hug while turning their head against the shoulder of the person they greet three times. 

Communication Basics

As a tourist or a visitor, you must know that the national language of UAE is Arabic although English is also widely spoken across the country. Other than Arabic and English common languages include Persian, Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, and Chinese. Hence, make sure you know at least Arabic or English to avoid difficulty in communication. 

Muslim Culture and Norms: Maintaining BoundariesMuslim Culture and Norms Maintaining Boundaries

The dominant religion in UAE is Islam, particularly of Sunni Muslims. People from other religions also reside in safety here as Islam forbids evil treatment of those belonging to other religions. However, what must be kept in mind, is that UAE does not permit the propagation and spread of other religions other than Islam. Hence, sharing pamphlets or distributing the bible and other religious books cause get you deported out of the UAE. 

In Ramadan, people here, fast from slightly before dawn to dusk. This custom involves refraining from eating and drinking (water and any other liquids) between this time frame. It also includes avoiding any evil deeds such as lying, back-biting or stealing. Eating in malls and public places, in front of fasting Muslims, is unethical and illegal. Malls such as Dubai Mall and Abu Dhabi Mall prohibit such an act. 

If you happen to visit the UAE during this month, it is advisable and ethical to avoid eating or drinking in public. 

Public Holidays

Major yearly celebrations that locals have are commemoration day 30th November, National Day 2nd of December, Isra wal Miraj, 27th Rajab, Eid-Ul-Fitar 1st Shawal, Arafah Day, Eid-ul- Azha, Eid Milad-un-Nabi, and other basic Islamic annual days. 

The people here respect and adhere to the teachings of the final messenger of God may peace and blessings be upon him. Hence one should be careful while speaking about him ﷺ.

How to Dress EthicallyDress Ethically

Men and women in Dubai are not permitted to wear clothing that doesn’t cover their shoulders or knees. Their basic core ethic is “modesty.”

If you are a visitor to the UAE, know that the nationals find it rude if Western males wear the national Emirati dress unless they are willing to visit a desert safari or another such area. Women should dress modestly and avoid and indecency within their dress code.  

 Although, there aren’t any restrictions on visitors, for the kind of dress they are expected to abide to, they should still avoid dressing that might distress the locals. Dresses that are too revealing or very short may become a cause of this distress. 

UAE Residents Eating PreferencesUAE Residents Eating Preferences

People in the Emirates don’t drink or eat pork, since their religion prohibits it to them. They eat “halal” food. Food that hasn’t been prohibited by their religion. So, while eating with a fellow Emirati remember not to offer them a drink or pork. It is also better to search the halal food list to get a better idea of what not to eat in public. Other than this, Emiratis prefer camel milk and dates over other food. 

Interacting with Women

Women and men are given their due rights in UAE. Women are given the right to education, to practice their chosen profession and the right to inherit property. They are provided with equal facilities as men. However, despite this, women in the Emirates do not like their photographs being taken. They also refrain from talking to men and are generally avoiding any form of physical contact. 

So, while traveling to the Emirates, remember to refrain from these acts.

Interest in Luxurious Lifestyle Luxurious a Life Style in UAE

UAE residents dwell in luxury due to the massive amounts of petroleum and natural gas reserves, which they use for obtaining a GDP of US$498 billion (AED 1.83 trillion) as of 2023. They often take luxury items for granted as they have made extravagance a part of their lives. From interior designing, including Wood flooring and well-furnished houses to popular cars and latest technology. Dubai has it all.  

As a tourist you must know, due to this combination of wealth, religion, and diversity of cultures you are bound to find all sorts of people, from women in jilbabs to those barely wearing any clothes at all. 

The Crux

Residents of the UAE are mostly Muslims. Hence, they follow most typical Muslim traditions. Their way of greeting, their ethics of socialization, traditions, norms, and lifestyle, resemble those of Muslims across the globe. 

If you are one, you won’t have most of the complications that other visitors might have while visiting the UAE. Even if you are not, know that the locals here are ever-welcoming and warmly loving people. Their gestures depict love and affection. However, you must remember to make sure you know either basic English or Arabic language, remain formal with women, dress ethically, eat halal when with fellow residents and enjoy your tour.

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