Being a Blessing to the Nations of the World
NEWS COVERAGE
UAE was formed with a dream of creating a federation of emirates. Dubai’s evolution to what it is today began in the year 1830 when the Maktoum family took over reigns of the emirate.
Through the years that followed, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who is recognized as the ‘Father of the Nation’ and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum charted the visions of Dubai with a dream of creating a confederation of emirates in the region.
This dream became a reality in the year 1971 when all seven emirates – Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ras
Al Khaimah merged to form the United Arab Emirates.
Sheikh Zayed was the first president of the UAE (1971 – 2004) and it was his visions, philosophies, and perseverance that helped establish UAE as a country with global reach and significance.
A Business Hub
Dubai is a dynamic international business centre. In 1894, foreign traders were exempted from taxes paving way for local merchants to sell items like pearls, fish, spices, and dates. The liberal attitude of the rulers and safe trade practices attracted Indian and Persian traders into the UAE.
Oil was discovered in the year 1966. The revenue generated from oil exports was used for infrastructural development such as schools, hospitals, roads, telecommunications, airports, etc.
Culture
Even though Islamic culture is followed, Dubai is very welcoming to people of all cultures and religions. In today’s modern world, Dubai can be described as a cultural melting pot with over 200 nationalities in the labor market.
- Dress Code
The traditional dress code for women is the abaya, a long black robe with a hijab (headscarf). Men wear the dishdash, also known as gandoora. Dress codes are more liberal for visitors in the city. - Food
Emirati cuisine generally uses food items like fish, meat, and rice. Traditional food has a unique taste due to the use of a variety of spices that adds to its rich flavor. Camel meat is eaten on special occasions. Camel’s milk is considered to be very good because it contains high levels of fat and calcium. Dubai also offers its visitors a diverse, cosmopolitan cuisine.
Image Courtesy of Poco a Poco & Dubai Heritage Village
