Tuesday, May 15, 2012

The Rich Heritage and Culture of the UAE

By Jessica Smith


When one thinks of the UAE, the first things that are evoked are the glistening cityscapes and the stunning visitor comforts that are on offer everywhere. Look a little more closely, though, and one finds the country has a wealth of practice and culture to explore. Enjoy the Emirates with cheap car rental service.

Though the UAE itself is a modern creation, the area has a history dating back over 2,500 years, when the first Arab peoples settled there. Tribal conventions have deep roots in the country. This can be seen today, as an example, in the natural courteousness of the neighbors. This isn't some cheap attempt to affect tourists, but a deeply-rooted tradition originating from a tribal society's structure of needs and responsibilities to one another.

The UAE is an Islamic country, and that's mirrored in much of her traditions and culture, naturally. For most of its history, the area has been home to traveling tribes that roamed the desert sands, often only returning a couple of times a year to a home oasis. Although the majority of people are now concentrated in the big cities along the coast, desert practices are still revered in the UAE. For tourists, there are organised trips into the desert through four-wheel drive automobiles and camels. Experiencing a night under the desert stars will give an appreciation for what life was like until fairly recently.

From the aromatic and spicy offering available to the thick, full-bodied coffee, foods and drinks offer holiday makers a taste of standard life daily. A day spent wandering round the many souqs or bazaars will give the holiday maker an understanding of Emirati life like nothing else. There are an array of specialised souqs, offering fish, gold and spices, for example. Dance, music, and storytelling, as well , form a fundamental element of the culture, from meetings around desert campfires to singers controlling the rhythm of work on the pearling boats.

Being a coastal country, the UAE has a proud history of boat building and fishing. The dhow is a classic symbol of Emirati seafaring ability. These amazing vessels can still be seen today, plying their trade in the UAE's waters. Pearl fishing is a vital practice continuing into the present.

This draft has only touched on some sides of Emirati culture and tradition. More awaits the visitor, including the world-famous Arabian horses. It is no wonder that Emiratis take such pride in their heritage.




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