The traditional coffee pots at coffee museumDubai Culture & Arts Authority
The Real Dubai
It may be known for its skyscrapers, luxury resorts and man-made islands, but Dubai is also a hub of history, heritage and culture. Scroll on to discover some of the Emirate's traditions and hidden gems.
the impact of Sole dxb on the cityDubai Culture & Arts Authority
Imam House of the Mosque by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
2. Mosques
There are around a thousand mosques in the emirate of Dubai! Some of the most beautiful ones are: Al Salam Mosque, Al Rayyan Mosque, DIFC Mosque, Gargash Mosque and Jumeirah Mosque.
Arqam Al Abri preforming on stage (2020)Dubai Culture & Arts Authority
3. Emerging creative talent
Young and emerging artists from around the world have found space for their creative expression in Dubai. From Kaveh Ahangar's geometric murals and Lisandra's music, to Sami Al Olaby's photographs, Dubai provides an inclusive space for everyone.
BioSnad Art Pieces in full developmental Stage by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
4. Green initiatives
Find out what is 'Desert-Cotton' - the first plant-based natural stuffing sourced in the UAE. And learn about other alternative materials: BioSand, Ramel - concrete alternative, paper made from fallen palm leaves and Dateform - material made out of date waste.
‘Declaration’ by El Seed (2016)Dubai Culture & Arts Authority
5. Public art
From the city's earliest forms of public art in the middle of busy roundabouts, to ones with an important message about climate, language and more, public art has been a form of expression in Dubai for decades, and makes exploring the city a fun scavenger hunt for art.
Boca Food Dish with Drink by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
6. Food scene
Check what Emiratis eat at home with Arabian Tea House. And explore more culinary stories with Boca, serving local ingredients, Hatta Strawberry Farm, Dibba Bay oyster farming venture and Teible, restaurant inspired by the farm-to-table movement.
URB Future architect Design by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
7. Architecture
Did you know that the Binghatti Pearls were designed as a tribute to Dubai's pearl diving history? Learn more about modern architecture marvels, see Dubai Reefs by URB and hear about their approach to smart cities and explore architectural designs by Sumaya Al Dabbagh.
The traditional coffee pots on fireDubai Culture & Arts Authority
8. Coffee
Coffee is deeply rooted in Dubai's culture, enjoyed in homes and cafes alike. Discover the evolution of coffee in Dubai, from traditional Arabic coffee to the city's thriving speciality coffee scene.
