Dubai's culture grows from Bedouin and seafaring traditions, a merchant-city identity and a multinational population. You can see living traditions in the old quarters and festivals and shows in the new districts.
Historic sites
Al Fahidi Fort – Built around 1787, the oldest surviving building in the city.
Al Seef – A rebuilt Creekside promenade recalling the old trading port.
Al Shindagha Quarter – A historic waterfront quarter that was home to Dubai's ruling family.
Traditions
Arabic coffee (Gahwa) – Offering coffee is a symbol of generosity, and the cup is refilled until you shake it.
Falconry – A Bedouin heritage, falconry is recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.
Ayyala dance – A traditional Emirati dance in which men line up with sticks to drum rhythms.
Festivals
Dubai Shopping Festival – Held in December and January with discounts, concerts and fireworks.
Ramadan and Eid – Fasting by day and iftar feasts at dusk in Ramadan, followed by family visits and celebrations at Eid.
Dubai Food Festival – A February to March festival of restaurants, street food and concerts.
Etiquette
Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees in public, and a headscarf and long clothes inside mosques.
During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public during the day.
Do not photograph people, especially local women, without permission.
Public displays of affection and loud behaviour are frowned upon, and alcohol is only drunk in licensed venues.
Map
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Places
🎭
The Dubai Fountain
One of the world's largest choreographed fountains, dancing to music and light on Burj Lake.
Category
Performance
Duration
30 min
Price
Free
Best time
In the evening
Tip: Shows run every half hour in the evening, so find a spot near the Burj Khalifa.