| UAE is predominantly an Islamic country. As a | | | | Dress: Women in the region wear a long black |
| result, the local customs and traditions are | | | | dress called "abaya" over normal garments. |
| reflective of and influenced by Islam. | | | | They also wear a scarf in public places. The |
| | | | traditional dress for men is "dishdasha" or |
| People: The virtues of courteousness and | | | | "khandura" - a long white robe along with a |
| politeness are valued in the UAE customs. The | | | | headgear known as "gutra". |
| people are generally very hospitable. At the | | | | |
| end of a get-together, rose water is | | | | Weddings: Weddings are special affairs in the |
| sprinkled on guests and special incense is | | | | region as in any other part of the world. The |
| burnt. | | | | bride is expected to stay at home for at |
| | | | least forty days before the wedding. Her |
| Food: Houses in the emirates generally have | | | | hands and feet are adorned with henna before |
| two reception rooms (called "majlis") - one | | | | marriage and there are traditional songs and |
| for men and the other for women. At the time | | | | dance by family members. |
| of Eid, a particular seating arrangement is | | | | |
| adhered to which is based on hierarchical | | | | UAE is all this and more when it comes to |
| order. Eating with the right hand is expected | | | | tradition. But despite its rich cultural |
| when you're dining with a native. A kind of | | | | tapestry, the fact remains that the society |
| sugarless coffee is an essential part of the | | | | stands for progress and development. It seeks |
| customs of the land. Water-pipes flavoured | | | | to further the best of its heritage at the |
| with tobacco known as "shisha" are smoked all | | | | same time welcoming people of diverse |
| over the land. | | | | cultures with open arms! |
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