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Islam being the predominant religion in UAE the local customs and traditions
of UAE is influenced to a great extent by this religion. However it does not
make UAE a closed society. It seeks to promote the best in its traditions and
customs so that the nation becomes vibrant and attractive to all the people.
Politeness and courteous behavior is very much visible while dealing with guest
of any kind. While enjoying food with other people of UAE one is supposed to
eat with the right hand. The aromic and sugarless coffee forms a very important
part of the customs of UAE. There are generally two reception rooms in the houses
as part of UAE custom. These reception rooms called majlis are separate for
men and women. During the Eid special sitting arrangements are made in the majlis
and an age hierarchy is generally maintained. As the majlis comes to an end
incense burners are brought and rose water is also sprinkled in each guests
head.
As part of wedding traditions in UAE, the finalization of marriage date marks the beginning of the preparations for bride's grooming for her wedding, which at times can be quite elaborate. In preparation for her wedding day, she is given best of foods and supposed to take lots of rest. Traditionally, she is not supposed to be seen for forty days except for her family members and relatives. As her wedding day approaches, she is anointed with a variety of traditional oil and perfumes from head to toe and her hair is washed with extracts of amber and jasmine. On the night of Laylat Al Henna the bride's hand and feet are decorated with henna. The family members and relatives sing and dance traditional songs and express their joy. The marriage is more of contractual in nature rather than being religious. The groom also needs preparation for his marriage but as compared to the bride it is very less.
Although 96% of the population follow Islam it is tolerant to other religious
communities. One can get alcohols in restaurants and hotels and the local population
can also drink it in restaurants. However they are not supposed to appear drunk
on the road. Shisha pipes are smoked at most establishments. They are traditional
water pipes that use flavored tobaccos like strawberry or apple. Shisha is usually
enjoyed while sitting at a café or restaurant. As part of the local UAE
custom the men wear the dishdasha or khandura, a white full-length shirt-dress.
It is worn with a white or red-checkered headdress known as a gutra. Women in
UAE wear the black abaya, a long black robe that covers their normal clothes
and they also wear a headscarf in the public. However the foreign tourists and
followers of other religions can wear any cloth that they like. They can even
wear bikini in the beaches. But in public places they are expected to respect
the local custom and tradition of UAE and maintain modesty in public appearance.
Although Arabic is the official language of the country communicating in English
is not a problem in UAE. Even sign board of business establishments and restaurants
appear in both the language. Thus the tolerant culture of UAE is reflected in
all the local customs and tradition of UAE.
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