Experience the rhythms of the UAE

The UAE pavilion at Global Village showcases Emirati heritage and tradition

Emirati culture is woven into the entire design and expression of the UAE pavilion. Its facade reflects its heritage, from inspired gates to vignettes of the topography of its beaches and hills. An incense burner continuously disperses the fragrance of oudh. This tradition is very popular in the UAE with both residents and visitors. Traditional Arabic music is connected to story-telling, pearl diving, and generally the way of life in earlier days. Music playing in the background takes you back to the old days. Arabic coffee is freely offered to visitors as it symbolises traits of generosity and hospitality, an integral part of UAE culture.
At the pavilion, the old heritage houses offer an unmissable photo opportunity. The heritage area showcases the skill of Emirati craftsmen. The Umm Al Quwain Folk Art Association plays a variety of music.
In the old days, natural materials were used to make furniture. Hamad bin Saleh has been practising his profession for more than 40 years. He loves to share his stories as he spins palm fronds, a skill he inherited from his forefathers. "I am happy to be part of Global Village. I am proud to tell children about the history of their ancestors and how to learn these traditional crafts," he said.
Pottery is another aspect exhibited at the UAE pavilion. It is an industry that is a living example of UAE's customs and traditions, as it existed before metal or copper were used. Saleh shares his knowledge of the different steps in creating pottery pieces and how important it is for the potter to find the right clay.
According to organisers of the pavilion, around 90 stores attract shoppers with a variety of UAE-made items, including traditional dress for men and women and various other garments as well as locally grown agriculture products such as honey and dates. "At Global Village, we offer a range of handicrafts and homegrown items for babies," said Umm Rashid. "Our craftsmen get direct consumer experience as visitors inspire them with new ideas for improvement and presentation."
Shops sell various types of incense, traditional perfumes, oudh, yoghurt and saffron, as well as herbs and spices. Traditional costumes and embroidered cloaks are of interest to tourists. The tour of the pavilion is not complete without sampling its popular cuisine that serves UAE dishes, including beverages and breads.
Vocal performances and cultural shows such as Yola, Harbiya and Razfa are popular with visitors of all ages. Children interact with their favourite cartoon characters such as Shambeh, Atouga, Afari, Bu Mhayer and Aboud from the popular series Shabiat Al Cartoon. Women get their hands decorated with beautiful henna designs. They sample the different types of oudh and perfumes as well.
And to cap it all off, there will be special firework displays for National Day after 8.30 pm, always a feast for the senses. And that's just what the Dubai experience is all about - one ever-changing, unexpected and remarkable adventure.
-suchitra@khaleejtimes.com

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• Dubai