History & Culture in Dubai

History Of Dubai

In the 18th century, Dubai was merely a small fishing village, but gradually the city developed into a centre for the pearl-diving industry. Dubai had extensive knowledge of trading and business, with the families tried to reduce taxes and attracted millions of foreign merchants for trading with this technique. Later in the 20th century, the city expanded more and became a re-exporting hub for India and Persia. Also, it enjoyed the benefits of the oil industry later in the 20th century. It motivated Dubai to focus more & more on trading to attract investment, directing oil surpluses into infrastructure projects like dry docks, international airports, and trade centre. 

In the early 90s, the city diversified itself, developing the luxury tourism industry, financial sectors, and real estate. The development required high-skilled, educated professionals and so many people shifted to Dubai mainly for two reasons- stable politics and tax-free salaries. Many migrates migrated to Dubai from Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Mongolia, and so on. The city is known as a cosmopolitan city and is one of the liberal economies in the Western Zone of India.

Culture of Dubai
The UAE mainly follows the tradition and religion of Arab, Bedouin, and Islam culture. The influence of Arab & Islamic culture is also very prominent in its music, attire, architecture, lifestyle, and cuisine. Arabs in Dubai, like Muslims, pray five times a day, according to Dubai norms. 

Dubai is comparatively liberal in comparison to other UAE nations and Arab Countries. But, the city strictly follows all the Islamic rules and laws, and they wish the same for all the visitors. Islam is the official religion of Dubai; hence, the travellers should not discuss their views on it and should avoid any lengthy conversations regarding politics, negativity, or the current government. Try having light and simple conversations to avoid any issues when you are in Dubai. 

During Ramadan, the fasting month, people residing & visitors cannot have food in public areas from sunrise to sunset; you have to consume meals in privacy only. Displays of affection in public are also prohibited; any sexual acts in public places can result in deportation and jail. Also, sexual relations between unmarried couples and homosexuality are considered an offense. Tourists have to adhere to all these rules and regulations. 
Women should dress conservatively in public areas, especially in Karama, Bur-Dubai, and Deira areas. Also, bikinis and swimwear are not acceptable on the beaches or swimming pools in Dubai. 

Consuming liquor is prohibited in Dubai. It is allowed in the areas approved by the sheikhs. Stores or supermarkets are not allowed to sell liquor. If you want to keep alcohol at your home, you need to have a license. In addition, drinking alcohol in public is severely prohibited.

Sheikh
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoem is the current sheikh of Dubai. A sheikh is an important person here with lots of money, oil, and power. Dubai people have too much respect for the sheikh and you can come across the posters of him everywhere in Dubai. 

Weekend days in Dubai are different than the western world. Friday and Saturday are the weekend days in Dubai. Mostly everything is closed on Friday. 

Many unusual things are linked to the Arabic culture & tradition like belly dance, henna tattoos, camels, lamps, and sitting & eating on a pillow on the ground.

Happy Travellers

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