FG WORLD · CULTURE WITHOUT BORDERS

Country collection · Arabian Gulf

Discover the UAE.

Explore the United Arab Emirates, where desert landscapes, coastal communities, maritime heritage and modern cities meet. Discover Emirati hospitality, traditional food, Arabic expressions and the stories behind a country shaped by trade, migration and cultural exchange.

Explore Emirati culture ↓ Discover traditional recipes

7 emiratesA federation of seven emirates

Abu DhabiCapital of the UAE

ArabicOfficial language

2 DecemberUAE National Day / Eid Al Etihad

01 · Culture & everyday life

A heritage of the desert and sea

Emirati culture developed through desert life, oasis agriculture, fishing, pearling, seafaring and trade across the Gulf and Indian Ocean. Today, the UAE is also home to people from many countries. Traditions continue alongside contemporary lifestyles, and customs can differ between families and communities.

Majlis & hospitality

The majlis is a gathering space for conversation, welcoming guests and community life. Arabic coffee and dates are well-known symbols of hospitality in the UAE.

Desert heritage

Knowledge of desert routes, water sources, camels and seasonal movement shaped life in arid landscapes. Poetry, storytelling and oral traditions helped preserve community knowledge.

Maritime traditions

Fishing, pearling, boatbuilding and seaborne trade were important to coastal communities. Traditional wooden dhows remain a recognisable part of the region's maritime heritage.

Clothing & identity

Many Emirati men wear a kandura and many women wear an abaya, with styles varying by individual and occasion. Clothing across the UAE also reflects its diverse international population.

Poetry, music & dance

Nabati poetry, traditional percussion and Al Ayala performances are associated with Emirati cultural heritage. Performance traditions vary and are often connected to celebrations and community events.

Dates, coffee & sharing

Dates are an important food and hospitality symbol. Arabic coffee, often flavoured with cardamom, may be served in small cups to guests as part of a welcoming ritual.

02 · Meet the seven emirates

Seven emirates, many experiences

Each emirate has its own landscape, history and character. These short introductions are starting points for exploring the federation.

Capital emirate

Abu Dhabi

The capital emirate combines government and cultural institutions with islands, desert landscapes, oases and the historic oasis city of Al Ain.

Global city

Dubai

Known for its international trade, waterfront districts, modern architecture, traditional neighbourhoods, souks and a long history as a regional trading centre.

Cultural heritage

Sharjah

Recognised for museums, heritage areas, arts institutions, cultural programmes and a strong emphasis on preserving and presenting local history.

Mountain coast

Ras Al Khaimah

Features mountains, coastal scenery, archaeological sites and a history connected to agriculture, fishing, maritime activity and regional trade.

East coast

Fujairah

Located on the Gulf of Oman, Fujairah is known for mountain scenery, beaches, historic forts and coastal communities.

Northern emirates

Ajman, Umm Al Quwain

These smaller emirates offer coastal landscapes, local heritage, traditional maritime connections and quieter places to learn about life beyond the largest cities.

Ajman and Umm Al Quwain are two separate emirates; the UAE federation consists of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.

03 · Places & heritage

From historic settlements to modern landmarks

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

One of Abu Dhabi's most prominent landmarks, known for its monumental scale, detailed decoration and role as a place of worship. Visitors should follow current dress and visitor guidance.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

A historic district in Dubai associated with traditional wind-tower architecture, narrow lanes, cultural spaces and the city's earlier urban life.

Al Ain Oasis

A UNESCO-listed cultural landscape with date palms and traditional falaj irrigation systems that illustrate long-standing oasis agriculture.

Jebel Jais

A mountain destination in Ras Al Khaimah with dramatic rocky scenery. Conditions can change, so check weather and access information before visiting.

Sharjah's heritage areas

Explore restored historic neighbourhoods, museums and cultural institutions that present architecture, crafts and aspects of life in the emirates.

Fujairah Fort

A historic fort associated with the emirate's inland settlement and defensive heritage, offering a different perspective on the UAE's history beyond its major cities.

04 · Celebrations & traditions

Important occasions in the UAE

National & cultural occasions

Eid Al Etihad — 2 December: marks the formation of the UAE federation in 1971. Public celebrations may include cultural performances, displays and community events.
Flag Day — 3 November: an occasion associated with the national flag and expressions of national identity.
Heritage festivals: events may showcase falconry, camel traditions, handicrafts, poetry, traditional food and aspects of desert and maritime life.
Arts & food events: cities host exhibitions, film programmes, concerts and festivals reflecting both local heritage and the UAE's international communities.

Religious & family occasions

Ramadan: a month of fasting observed by Muslims, with special evening meals, prayer and charitable activities. Daily routines may change during this period.
Eid Al Fitr: marks the end of Ramadan and is often celebrated through prayers, family visits, festive meals and giving.
Eid Al Adha: an important Islamic holiday associated with worship, generosity and family or community gatherings.
Weddings & family gatherings: celebrations may include traditional dress, music, food and distinct customs; practices differ between families.

Islamic holiday dates follow the lunar calendar and shift from year to year. Public holiday dates and official event schedules should be checked for the relevant year.

05 · The Emirati kitchen

Six recipes inspired by Emirati food culture

Rice, wheat, dates, fish, meat and aromatic spices appear in many Gulf food traditions. Try these approachable home versions inspired by dishes associated with the UAE. Family recipes and regional preparations may differ.

01 Chicken MachboosSpiced rice with chicken · Serves 4

Ingredients

4 chicken pieces, bone-in or boneless
2 cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes
2 onions, sliced
2 tomatoes, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp oil or ghee
1 cinnamon stick, 3 cardamom pods and 2 cloves
1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp coriander and ½ tsp turmeric
Black pepper, salt and 4 cups stock or water, as needed
Dried lime, optional; chopped coriander for serving

Method

Heat the oil in a heavy pot. Cook the onions until golden, then add garlic and tomatoes.
Add the whole spices, ground spices, salt and pepper. Stir for a minute until fragrant.
Add the chicken and turn it in the spice mixture. Add stock or water to cover and simmer until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
Remove the chicken temporarily. Measure the remaining cooking liquid and add the drained rice, keeping the liquid-to-rice ratio appropriate for the rice used.
Return the chicken to the pot, cover and cook on low heat until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 74°C.
Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with coriander if desired.

Machboos has many Gulf variations. Dried lime and spice blends vary by household; adjust liquid according to your rice and pot.

02 HareesSlow-cooked wheat and chicken · Serves 4–6

Ingredients

1 cup whole wheat berries or harees wheat, soaked overnight
400–500 g boneless chicken
6–8 cups water or unsalted stock, as needed
Salt to taste
2–3 tbsp ghee or butter, for serving
Pinch of cinnamon, optional

Method

Drain the soaked wheat and place it in a heavy pot with the chicken and water or stock.
Bring to a boil, skim any foam and reduce to a very gentle simmer.
Cook slowly, stirring regularly, until the wheat breaks down and the chicken is very tender. Add hot water when needed to prevent sticking.
Remove any bones if using bone-in chicken. Shred the meat and return it to the pot.
Beat or stir vigorously with a sturdy spoon until the mixture becomes thick and porridge-like. A hand mixer may help, if suitable for your pot.
Season with salt and serve hot with a little melted ghee or butter.

Cooking time depends on the type of wheat. Use a pressure cooker only according to its manufacturer instructions, and never fill it beyond its recommended limit.

03 BalaleetSweet vermicelli with an egg topping · Serves 3–4

Ingredients

200 g fine vermicelli
2 tbsp butter or ghee
3–4 tbsp sugar, or to taste
½ tsp ground cardamom
Pinch of saffron soaked in 1 tbsp warm water, optional
3 eggs
Pinch of salt and a little oil or butter for the eggs

Method

Cook the vermicelli according to its package instructions until just tender. Drain well.
Melt the butter or ghee in a pan and gently toss the vermicelli with the sugar, cardamom and saffron water.
Cook over low heat for a few minutes, stirring carefully until the flavours combine and the noodles are hot.
Beat the eggs with a small pinch of salt. Cook in a lightly greased skillet as a thin omelette, ensuring the eggs are fully set.
Serve the sweet vermicelli with the egg omelette arranged on top or alongside.

Balaleet is commonly associated with breakfast and festive meals in parts of the Gulf. The balance of sweetness and spice varies by recipe.

04 ThareedVegetable stew with flatbread · Serves 4

Ingredients

2 tbsp oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tomatoes, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 potatoes, cut into chunks
1 courgette, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin and ½ tsp turmeric
4 cups vegetable stock or water
Salt, pepper and a handful of coriander
Thin flatbread, torn into pieces

Method

Heat the oil and soften the onion. Add garlic, tomatoes, cumin and turmeric; cook until fragrant.
Add the carrots, potatoes, stock, salt and pepper. Simmer until the vegetables are nearly tender.
Add the courgette and continue cooking until all vegetables are soft and the broth is flavourful.
Place pieces of flatbread in a serving dish. Spoon the hot stew and broth over them so the bread softens.
Finish with coriander and serve immediately.

This is a vegetarian home adaptation. Thareed is also prepared with meat or chicken, and the bread and seasonings vary across households.

05 Khameer-Style BreadSoft, lightly sweet flat rounds · Makes 6

Ingredients

3 cups plain flour
2 tsp instant yeast
2 tbsp sugar
½ tsp salt
2 tbsp milk powder, optional
1 tbsp oil or melted butter
About 1 cup warm water, added gradually
Sesame seeds for topping, optional

Method

Mix the flour, yeast, sugar, salt and optional milk powder in a bowl.
Add the oil and warm water gradually, kneading until a soft dough forms.
Cover and leave in a warm place until roughly doubled in size, about 60–90 minutes depending on room temperature.
Divide into six balls and roll each into a small round. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Cook in a preheated covered skillet over medium-low heat, turning as needed until the bread is cooked through and lightly browned. Alternatively, bake in a hot oven until done.
Serve warm with cheese, honey, dates or a savoury dish.

This is a simplified home-style bread inspired by khameer. Traditional recipes and baking techniques differ; cooking time depends on thickness and heat.

06 LuqaimatGolden sweet dumplings with date syrup · Makes about 20

Ingredients

1 cup plain flour
1 tsp instant yeast
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp cornflour
Pinch of salt
About ¾ cup warm water, added gradually
Oil for deep-frying
Date syrup for serving
Sesame seeds, optional

Method

Mix the flour, yeast, sugar, cornflour and salt. Add warm water gradually to make a thick, sticky batter.
Cover and leave in a warm place until bubbly and slightly risen, around 45–60 minutes.
Heat frying oil in a deep, heavy pot. Keep the oil temperature around 170–175°C and work in small batches.
Use two lightly oiled spoons to drop small portions of batter into the oil. Turn carefully and fry until evenly golden and cooked inside.
Drain on a rack or paper towel. Drizzle with date syrup and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Take care when deep-frying: do not overfill the pot, keep water away from hot oil and never leave it unattended. Syrup sweetness can be adjusted to taste.

Food note: These are practical home-cooking versions inspired by dishes associated with Emirati and wider Gulf food traditions. Recipes differ by family and region. Check allergens and use safe food-handling practices.

06 · Arabic language corner

Six useful Arabic phrases

Arabic is the UAE's official language. English is also widely used in many public and business settings. These beginner-friendly Arabic expressions are useful starting points; everyday pronunciation can differ between dialects.

مَرْحَبًا — MarḥabanHello / welcome

شُكْرًا — ShukranThank you

مِنْ فَضْلِكَ — Min faḍlikPlease, to a man (common formal form)

كَمْ هَذَا؟ — Kam hādhā?How much is this?

لَا أَفْهَم — Lā afhamI don't understand

مَعَ السَّلَامَة — Maʿa as-salāmaGoodbye / go in peace

Arabic is written from right to left. Transliteration is only an approximate guide to pronunciation. In spoken Emirati Arabic, some expressions may differ from formal Modern Standard Arabic.

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