The Culture and Cuisine of UAE: A Taste of the Middle East

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country that boasts of a rich and diverse culture, influenced by its history, geography, and religion. The UAE is home to people from different ethnicities and backgrounds, who have contributed to its vibrant and cosmopolitan society. One of the most fascinating aspects of the UAE culture is its cuisine, which reflects the tastes and traditions of the Emirati people, as well as the influences from other cuisines around the world.

What is Emirati Cuisine?

Emirati cuisine is the local traditional Arabic cuisine of the UAE. It is part of the Eastern Arabian cuisine and shares similarities with cuisines from neighboring countries, such as Omani cuisine and Saudi Arabian cuisine, as well as influences from different Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines.

Emirati cuisine is based on the availability of ingredients in the region, such as rice, meat, fish, dates, dairy products, and spices. The cuisine also reflects the lifestyle and customs of the Emirati people, who have been historically divided into three groups: the Bedouins, who lived in the desert and relied on camel milk and meat; the fishermen, who lived along the coast and consumed a lot of seafood; and the farmers, who cultivated date palms and other crops.

Some of the common features of Emirati cuisine are:

- The use of spices such as cinnamon, saffron, cardamom, turmeric, and thyme to enhance the flavor and aroma of dishes.

- The use of dried lemons (loomi), which are grown locally and add a tangy taste to soups and stews3.

- The use of dates, which are a staple fruit in the UAE and are eaten fresh or dried, or used to make syrups, jams, desserts, and beverages.

- The use of rice, which is often cooked with meat or fish and seasoned with spices and herbs.

- The use of breads such as raqaq (thin and crispy), khameer (fluffy and leavened), and chebab (pancake-like), which are served with cheese, eggs, or date syrup for breakfast or as snacks.

- The use of dairy products such as laban (buttermilk), labneh (strained yogurt), and ghee (clarified butter), which are used to make sauces, dips, or desserts3.

How to Enjoy Emirati Cuisine?

Emirati cuisine is not only delicious but also rich in culture and history. To enjoy Emirati cuisine fully, you should also be aware of some of the etiquette and customs that accompany it. Here are some tips on how to enjoy Emirati cuisine:

- Emirati cuisine is usually eaten with the right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean. You can use a spoon or a fork for rice dishes, but breads are used to scoop up food or sauces.

- Emirati cuisine is often served on large communal platters or dishes, and everyone shares from the same plate. You should only take a small portion at a time and avoid wasting food?.

- Emirati cuisine is usually accompanied by drinks such as water, laban, or Arabic coffee. Alcohol is not allowed in the UAE, except in some licensed hotels or restaurants. You should always accept a cup of Arabic coffee when offered, as it is a sign of hospitality and respect.

- Emirati cuisine is best enjoyed with friends and family, as it is a way of bonding and celebrating. You should always compliment the host and the food, and express your gratitude for the meal.

Emirati cuisine is a wonderful way to explore the culture and cuisine of the UAE. It offers a variety of dishes that are flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying. Whether you are visiting the UAE or want to try something new, you should definitely give Emirati cuisine a try. You will not regret it!

Enroll for an MBA program at the Britts Imperial University College. Call +971 522161783

Works Cited:

(1) Emirati cuisine - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emirati_cuisine

(2) Traditional Food of UAE | Complete Guide To Emirati Cuisine. https://www.dayoutdubai.ae/blog/safari/traditional-food-of-uae/

(3) Culture, Traditions, And Customs Of The United Arab Emirates - WorldAtlas. https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/culture-traditions-and-customs-of-the-united-arab-emirates.html

(4) Top 8 Traditional Food Culture of UAE – Dubai and UAE updates. https://dubaiposteruae.wordpress.com/2018/05/13/top-8-traditional-food-culture-of-uae/

(5) Culture of UAE - Traditions, Cuisine, Architecture, Customs & More. https://www.holidify.com/pages/culture-of-uae-1999.html