Friday, June 5, 2009
Tabinda lives in UAE. She sends us her picture and says that she is basically belongs to Pakistan. Tabinda loves long driving and likes to visit greenhouses. She writes UAE is predominantly an Islamic country. As a result, the local customs and traditions are reflective of and influenced by Islam.
The virtues of courteousness and politeness are valued in the UAE customs. The people are generally very hospitable. At the end of a get-together, rose water is sprinkled on guests and special incense is burnt.
Houses in the emirates generally have two reception rooms (called “majlis”) - one for men and the other for women. At the time of Eid, a particular seating arrangement is adhered to which is based on hierarchical order. Eating with the right hand is expected when you’re dining with a native. A kind of sugarless coffee is an essential part of the customs of the land. Water pipes flavoured with tobacco known as “shisha” are smoked all over the land.
Women in the region wear a long black dress called “abaya” over normal garments. They also wear a scarf in public places. The traditional dress for men is “dishdasha” or “khandura” - a long white robe along with a headgear known as “gutra”.