Emirati culture — Bedouin, Arab, Islamic blend with ultra-modernity. Transformation from poor desert to global hub in 50 years.
Language
Standard Arabic official. Emirati dialect in daily life. English language of business — 88% of inhabitants are foreigners. Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog widespread.
Bedouins and Ancient Heritage
Bedouins in desert — thousands of years history. Camel ship of the desert. Falconry (UNESCO) — Bedouin tradition. Tent majlis — hospitality tradition. Pearl trade before oil.
Islam
Sunni Islam official emirate. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi) — largest mosque in UAE, holds 40,000 worshippers. Ramadan and Hajj — fundamental.
Modern Architecture
Burj Khalifa (828 m) — world tallest building. Palm Jumeirah — artificial islands. Louvre Abu Dhabi. Museum of the Future Dubai. Embodiment of ambition.
Cuisine
Machbous, harees, luqaimat, balaleet, red tea. Regag bread on open fire. Arabic coffee with cardamom. Dates fundamental in hospitality.
Traditions
National dress: kandura (men white), abaya (women black). Emirati wedding huge show. National Day (December 2) — major celebrations. Falconry.
Contemporary Culture
Expo 2020 Dubai. Abu Dhabi Festival of Arts. Zayed National Museum. Saadiyat Island — culture island. Religious tolerance policy, mosques, churches, temples side by side.