Here’s How You Can Truly Enjoy Authentic Emirati Culture in Dubai
Here’s the thing: I swear, nobody takes travel as seriously as I do! I treat every trip like it’s my swan song, obsessively overpreparing for maximum wanderlust satisfaction.
So when one of my buddies from abroad asked me how to dive deep into Emirati culture in Dubai, I unleashed the ultimate insider’s guide! I lined up a killer list of must-do activities so he could soak up every ounce of the City of Gold.
And if you’re itching to travel yourself, you’re in luck! Take a peep at my notes and rock your Dubai adventure like a seasoned local!
What can I do to experience Dubai’s Emirati culture?
There are a bunch of things you can do to experience Dubai’s Emirati culture. For one, you can chow down on a traditional feast, swing by a mosque, gear up for a nature safari, grab some funky fabrics at the market, or hop on a boat!
Dig into a Traditional Emirati Feast
Media from smccudubai
Address: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood – Al Mussallah Rd – Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 (0) 4 353 6666, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday, Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 1 PM
Fees:
- Entry Fee – AED 25
- Lunch (Tuesday & Sunday) – AED 90
- Brunch (Saturday) – AED 100
- Dinner (Tuesday) – AED 100
- Heritage Tour – AED 65
Experiencing authentic Emirati culture in Dubai starts at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) in Al Fahidi. Here, you can savor authentic Emirati dishes that bring out real local flavors.
And for me, dining at SMCCU is more than just eating. You can have breakfast, lunch, or dinner in a traditional Bedouin style while friendly hosts share stories and answer questions about local customs—what a fun and tasty way to dive into the culture!
Pro tip:
Don’t know which traditional dish to try first? I say start your day at SMCCU with balaleet (sweet vermicelli with savory eggs) or chebab (Emirati pancakes) for a legit taste of Emirati cuisine!
Give Arabic Coffee a Taste
Media from coffeemuseum
Website: http://www.coffeemuseum.ae/
Address: Historical Neighborhood, Bastakiya, Villa 44 – Al Hisn St – Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 353 8777, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Fees:
- Entry – AED 10
Can’t live a day without getting a hot cup of Joe? Then, you might love that the Coffee Museum is where Emirati culture comes alive! It’s a cozy spot where you can trace coffee’s journey from Ethiopia to Arabia.
But it’s more than just history. Here, you’ll discover a diverse range of flavors! From classic brews to unique blends, I love that each sip tells a tale of tradition and creativity.
And if you’re itching to try your hand at home brewing, the folks here have all the cool accessories you need to step up your coffee game. Make sure to give them a look!
Pro tip:
By the entrance of the Coffee Museum, don’t miss the little corner where you can snag souvenirs like coffee and other fun trinkets!
Check Out a Mosque
Media from mydubai
Website: https://www.jumeirahmosque.ae/
Address: Jumeirah Beach Road – Jumeirah 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 353 6666, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 8 PM
Fees:
- Guided Tour – AED 25 per person
Jumeirah Mosque is a serene place in Dubai that showcases Emirati culture and Islamic heritage. Built from white stone in the classic Fatimid architecture style, I think it looks especially beautiful at dusk with its twin minarets and large dome!
I love that anyone can visit the mosque and join guided tours that explore Islamic traditions and local customs. The “Open Doors, Open Minds” program allows visitors to see prayer rituals and talk with guides who know a lot about Emirati life.
Note that these tours last 75 minutes and run 6 days a week at 10 am. For me, they’re a great way to get a glimpse into Dubai’s rich cultural diversity.
Pro tip:
It can get pretty hot at Jumeirah Mosque during the day, so I recommend visiting early in the morning.
If you plan to go inside, I advise covering up! Showing lots of skin with shorts, for example, isn’t allowed here.
Get Schooled on History at Etihad Museum
Media from etihadmuseum
Website: https://etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae/
Address: 1 Jumeirah St – Al Mina – Jumeirah 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 800 33222, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 8 PM
Fees:
- Adult (over 25 years) – AED 25
- Group – AED 20 per person
- Student (5 to 24 years) – AED 10
- People of Determination – Free
- Child (0 to 4 years) – Free
Discover Etihad Museum in Jumeirah to glimpse UAE history from 1968 to 1974. Here, you can wander through cool pavilions with interactive stuff like photos and films that tell how the country got modern.
Made by Canadian architects, it’s got a cool curved roof and symbolic columns that make it stand out for me. Plus, you’ll find a library, a learning center, and exhibition halls where you can soak up loads of knowledge!
Pro tip:
Don’t want to deal with crowds? I suggest visiting the Etihad Museum during Ramadan!
Gear Up for a Nature Safari
Media from ddcr_uae
Address: Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 800 900
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Fees:
- Adults – AED 35
- Children – AED 25
You can watch the UAE’s majestic birds soar on a falconry safari in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve! I bet it would be fascinating to try falconry yourself or just soak up the experience with knowledgeable guides.
Other than that, you may dive deeper into Emirati life with camel treks, horseback riding, and archery. Feel the desert’s beat as you sandboard down its dunes, blending heritage with excitement.
Pro tip:
Make sure to book a guided sunrise tour at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve!
In my opinion, the early morning light and cooler temperatures make for a comfy and stunning adventure. Also, you’ll get to see the desert wildlife at its most active!
Hop Aboard the Heritage Express
Media from heritageexpress
Website: https://heritageexpress.com/
Address: Al Mussallah Rd – Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 800 97777, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 4 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 9 AM to 12 PM
Fees:
- The Emirati Hospitality Experience (4-hour Standard Tour) – AED 250 per person
Get a taste of real Emirati culture in the city with the Heritage Express, a cool mobile lounge that takes you on a ride through the city’s history!
Here, the local guides spill all the juicy stories, making you feel like a part of the heritage scene. You’ll cruise through Dubai and hit up seven historic spots that each spill the beans on the city’s past.
But the fun doesn’t end there. I think you should also swing by a desert Bedouin camp for some old-school Emirati vibes and activities. With these, I reckon you’ll feel like a local real soon!
Pro tip:
Don’t worry about snacks on the Heritage Express. All you need to bring is your ticket (printed or online).
All packages include basic refreshments like water, tea, coffee, and dates. The Emirati Hospitality Experience even includes breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Go Fabric Shopping
Media from liwafashion_
Address: 57 Ali Bin Abi Taleb St – opposite to Abra – Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 50 768 8512
Operating Hours:
- Saturday to Thursday – 9 AM to 2 PM, 4 PM to 9 PM
- Friday – 6 AM to 2 PM, 4 PM to 9 PM
If you’re in it for some retail therapy, you can get a taste of authentic Emirati culture at the Textile Souk in Bur Dubai.
I believe you’ll find the kaleidoscope of colors and textures mesmerizing, as you sift through reels of raw and embroidered fabrics. You might just find the perfect rug here—a great gift for your loved ones too, in my opinion.
And even if you’re not buying anything, the mere exploration can lift your mood—everything’s so vibrant!
Pro tip:
The Textile Souk is great for traditional or imitation goods, but expect very persistent traders. If this makes you uncomfortable, just smile, say no, and keep walking to avoid unnecessary interactions.
Appreciate Art at Alserkal Avenue
Media from alserkalavenue
Website: https://alserkal.online/
Address: 17th St – Al Quoz – Al Quoz Industrial Area 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 333 3464, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Fees:
- Free entry
Experiencing genuine Emirati culture in the city goes beyond the glitz and glamour of its skyscrapers. The way I see it, Alserkal Avenue offers an amazing glimpse into the contemporary art scene while honoring traditional roots.
This district is a hub for local artists, galleries, and boutiques, providing a fusion of modernity and heritage. You can wander through the maze of galleries showcasing lovely artwork, relax at cozy cafes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.
Pro tip:
During big events at Alserkal Avenue, parking can be limited. I think it’s best to use public transport or a taxi instead, for your convenience.
Bike, Hike, or Kayak at Hatta Heritage Village
Media from bentot_1414
Website: https://hattaheritagevillage.com/
Address: Unnamed Road – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 800 33222, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Fees:
- Free entry
Want to enjoy some zen away from the chaotic city? Heading out to the peaceful Hatta Heritage Village in the Hajar Mountains can give you that serenity while diving into legit Emirati culture in Dubai.
For me, it’s a charming step back into the UAE’s rural past. Just stroll through the carefully crafted buildings made of wood and mud and relish the simplicity of life before modernization takes over.
Pro tip:
For the best experience, visit the Hatta Heritage Village in the evening when shops are open and the village is bustling with activity. You’ll get to explore everything and soak in the cultural charm!
Set Sail at Dubai Creek
Media from dubaicreekharbour
Address: Dubai Creek Harbour – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Exploring the local culture in Dubai isn’t just about glitzy skyscrapers and extravagant malls. In my book, one of the best ways to delve into the city’s heritage is by hopping on a traditional abra!
These motorized water taxis, ferrying passengers across the historic Dubai Creek for a mere AED 1 each way, offer a glimpse into the city’s past. I also love that the gentle journey provides a serene backdrop to soak in the sights and sounds of old Dubai.
Pro tip:
Hungry? Grab a bite at a waterfront restaurant along Dubai Creek for awesome Arabic cuisine and a scenic view of boats passing by. I think it’s perfect for indulging in the romantic vibes with a date!
Attend Traditional Festivals
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The traditional festivals in the city let you experience how the locals truly thrive. Throughout the year, there are lively celebrations like the Dubai Shopping Festival and the Dubai Food Festival to showcase Emirati cuisine, arts, and hospitality.
During these events, you can mingle with local artisans, taste delicious Emirati dishes, and soak up the friendly Emirati vibe. Plus, I like that everyone in the family or friend group can enjoy multiple activities together!
Pro tip:
Plan well and arrive early for the Dubai festivals. This way, you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy the best they have to offer. Make a beeline to explore the souks, savor local food, and catch traditional performances without the rush!
See a Show at the Dubai Opera
Media from dubaiopera
Website: https://www.dubaiopera.com/
Address: Burj Khalifa – Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 440 8888, [email protected]
The Dubai Opera is another captivating peek into Emirati culture. If you love the performing arts, I bet this stunning venue is among the lively hotspots for you!
With room for 2,000 guests, I love that the opera effortlessly shifts from intimate shows to grand concerts, featuring ballets, orchestras, and plays. Its design, inspired by a traditional dhow boat, also pays tribute to the UAE’s maritime roots.
Moreover, I appreciate that guests can soak up the atmosphere in the lush lobby. This is where Dubai’s diverse crowd gathers with the iconic Burj Khalifa in the background, so be sure to snap some amazing pics!
Pro tip:
Besides catching a show at the Dubai Opera, I suggest taking a backstage tour to see how everything comes together. Who knows? You might end up with a whole new appreciation for the theater!
Learn Some Handy Crafts
Media from explorewithlulu_
Hands-on learner? I get it. In Dubai, you can make some pretty cool traditional crafts! Try your hand at Al Sadu, that intricate Bedouin weaving, or Khoos, weaving with palm fronds!
You can also dive into Talli, the art of embroidery, and check out how they make those traditional coffee pots, called Dallahs. For me, it’s all about getting a feel for the centuries-old traditions that Emiratis still really dig today.
Pro tip:
When you’ve got some extra time, consider purchasing handmade crafts or materials from local markets too. It helps keep those traditional skills alive and supports the local economy!
Study a Traditional Dance
Media from insonnyty20
Learning a traditional dance in Dubai gives you a lively peek into the culture. In my opinion, one of the coolest dances to try is Al-Ayyala, known for its rhythmic moves and traditional outfits.
It’s a cherished tradition rooted in Bedouin (nomadic Arab) heritage. Imagine men in traditional attire, swaying to drumbeats with bamboo canes, symbolizing valor and unity.
To dive in, you may visit local cultural centers or events featuring Al Ayyala. You’ll witness rows of performers moving in sync, chanting with the spirit of UAE history.
Pro tip:
Dressing the part is key in Emirati dances too! For men, you can wear a kandura (traditional ankle-length robe), and for women, an abaya (traditional black cloak). It’s all about immersing yourself and respecting the tradition!