Just like most of the other countries in the world, western culture has played a part in shaping the cuisine of the UAE. Western style of clothing has crept into dressing with most youths preferring western styles. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a diverse society. Traditionally, the Emirati wear clothes such as the abaya and the kandura. Songs and dances are usually common in social events such as weddings and parties. The Bedouin people traded with merchants from Iran, China and India before the arrival of Europeans in the 1400s. The white colors and the design of the attire are two aspects that make it suitable for the hot climate of the UAE. As of 2013, the combined population of the emirates stood at 9.2 million people. The population is predominantly Islamic and therefore many laws are respected. Being an Arab country, it is not a surprise that Islam is the most popular religion. A scholar from the 8th century who was known as Al Khalil bin Ahmed mostly influenced a huge part of the style of poetry. However, just like every other aspect of the culture, the 20th century saw the introduction of styles such as prose, which is a western style. Pork is not common, and in Sharjah, alcohol is prohibited. If you don't have an account yet, make one here. Seafood is mostly fish while mutton and lamb are the more common meats. All maps, graphics, flags, photos and original descriptions © 2020 worldatlas.com. A number of sports are also present in the UAE. From the late 1400s, the Portuguese had control over much o… The seven emirates making up the UAE are Ajman, Ras al-Khaimah, Abu Dhabi (which is the capital), Dubai, Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, and Fujairah. Emirati women wear a full-body abaya according to Islamic practices. Over the years, the UAE has had a wide range of occupants such as the British who have also played a role in shaping the culture. Due to the previous occupation of the country by the United Kingdom in the past (until 1971), English is also the UAE’s primary lingua franca. In modern times, other forms of music have emerged with the current generation blending the past and the present. Data shows that the average man in the UAE has around 50 kanduras for changing regularly and staying immaculate. Each emirate has its own ruler who governs a group of people with some diverse cultures, beliefs, and traditions. Click here for Weather in the United Arab Emirates. History The UAE lies in the southeastern side of the Arabian Peninsula with its neighbors being Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Iran. Cultural Emirati foods include chabab bread, Lugaimat (a famous dessert), machboos, and a few others. The first Europeans to arrive in the Gulf States were the Spanish in the 16th century. The country's historical population as a small tribal community that has changed with the arrival of other nationals, in the mid-20th century. South African Culture, Customs, and Traditions, The Culture, Customs, and Traditions of Finland, Types Of Crimes By Number Of Offenses In The US. Nevertheless, in most parts of the UAE, tourists will find a liberal stance on Islamic culture. Data from the Pew Research Center shows that 76% of the population is Muslim with Christianity coming next with a following of 12.6%. The UAE is part of the tradition known as Arab khaleeji. In 1820, the sheikhdoms signed a treaty with the British government, known as the Trucial Sheikhdoms Treaty. Since then, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have experienced incredible growth, both financially and socially. Just like other Arabic countries, the national language of the UAE is Arabic. A strict dress code is also observed and wearing anything too revealing in public is frowned upon.