Learn About Middle Eastern Culture in

September 8, 2015, Dubai, U.A.E.

Dubai is a great place for a first introduction to Middle Eastern traditions. In an atmosphere that feels safe, open and comfortable, you can experience authentic Arabic culture, from souks to mosques. English is Dubai’s common language, so it’s easy to communicate, ask questions and learn. Here, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at recommends a variety of ways to immerse yourself in the local culture. Step into Dubai History Though Dubai’s growth has mostly taken place in the last four decades, there’s still lots of interesting history to discover, revealing the traditions of Middle Eastern life. A great place to start exploring is at the , housed in a fort built in 1787, making it the oldest building in the city. The museum depicts everyday life before the discovery of oil with galleries recreating historic Arab houses, mosques and souks. The museum is located in the city’s tiny Bastakiya quarte, which was founded in the 1890s by wealthy textile and pearl traders from Bastak, Iran. The narrow laneways are now lined with galleries and cafés. Another place to step into the past is at the Dubai Heritage Village, an old-style town at the edge of . The mix of period buildings includes heritage houses, a barn, museums and small hops. It’s best to visit in the evening when things get busier, including and donkey rides, people making traditional crafts and , as well as restaurants along the water. Experience Traditional Lifestyles

1

Many of the local Emerati people are of Bedouin origin. For centuries – before the discovery of oil – they lived in the desert. To help you experience this nomadic lifestyle, Four Seasons can arrange trips into the pristine Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve – whether just for a morning or overnight. The authentic Bedouin camp offers demonstrations of local cultural activities such as henna, music, dance, making and Arabic making. You can even hear fascinating tales of the past from a local Bedouin who meets guests over a traditional . Then enjoy a camel ride through the dunes! In years gone by, many local people were fishermen and pearl divers. You can learn more about pearl diving in the Dubai Museum. And you can get a sense of the fishing lifestyle just a short walk from Four Seasons at the Fishing Harbour, a newly developed marina with the aim of bringing back Dubai’s ancient trade and cultural roots. Stroll the jetty and look at the boats, then choose from about five restaurants and cafés. Boat tours can be arranged on a traditional dhow sailing vessel. If you’re interested in learning more about the Muslim religion, visit the Jumeirah Mosque, just 10 minutes from Four Seasons . This is the only mosque in Dubai that is open to the public and dedicated to receiving non-Muslim guests. It’s a unique opportunity to ask questions about Emirati culture and religion in a relaxed, casual and open atmosphere. Shop in Authentic Middle Eastern Markets In Old Dubai, you can experience authentic Middle Eastern markets, known as souks, featuring narrow laneways jammed with merchandise and lively with bargaining. The three souks are located in close proximity, and they’re not as large and confusing as some in the Middle East – making them much better for an introduction. Four Seasons can arrange a guide to accompany you and show you the best spots. The Dubai Gold Souk is home to more than 300 Dubai jewellery shops, featuring designs ranging from incredibly ornate to elegantly simple. As one of the largest gold retail markets in , there are strict government controls to ensure quality. In the Souk, you’ll discover an abundance of fragrances and – from frankincense to cloves, and – sold straight from open sacks. The Textile Souk features small stores selling fabrics, clothes, footwear and souvenirs. It’s an attractively restored traditional bazaar, shaded by an arched wooden roof. Taste the Local Dubai today offers very cosmopolitan cuisine, featuring dishes from around the world. But it’s definitely a must to try some traditional Emirati cuisine. Many of the dishes are like , as everything is often cooked in a single pot, spiced with , cardamom, and . Dishes are frequently served with . You can enjoy a traditional Emirati breakfast or inside a traditional local house in Bastakiya. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding offers this unique program of cultural . While eating, you have the chance to chat with your Emerati host and ask questions about UAE culture, customs and religion. Another dining option is Al Fanar, the first Dubai restaurant serving local Emerati cuisine. Popular dishes include fish cakes, grilled squid, and chicken and rice cooked with local spices. The décor is inspired by 1960s Dubai. The concierge team at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach can help make all your arrangements, no matter what aspect of Middle Eastern life you’re interested in exploring.

2

RELATED

April 11, 2017, Dubai, U.A.E. A Season of Reflection: Four Seasons Hotels Dubai Celebrate the Holy Month

http://publish.url/dubai/hotel-news/2017/ramadan.html

March 13, 2017, Dubai, U.A.E. New Activities and Offers at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in Europe, Middle East and Africa for an Exciting Easter This Year

http://publish.url/news-releases/2017/easter-in-emea.html

PRESS CONTACTS

Mariana Rebelo De Sousa Director of Public Relations Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 2 Dubai United Arab [email protected]

(971) 4 270 7723

3