Culture

Dubai is welcoming, friendly and tolerant. The dominant Arab culture and folklore finds expression in poetry, colorful dancing, songs and traditional hospitality, including the special local coffee (gahwa). Nationals of the Emirate wear the typical Arab dress of a "dishdasha" and a headdress called a "ghuttra". Cultural activities of other nations are very much in evidence in cosmopolitan Dubai.

Language

The official language is Arabic, and Arabic and English are commonly used in business and commerce.

Religion

Ramadan is the holy month in which Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Koran. The timing of Ramadan is not fixed in terms of the Western calendar, but occurs a few days earlier each year. It is a month of fasting when Moslems abstain from all food, drink and cigarettes during daylight hours. Visitors are also required to refrain from consuming these items in public places during this time.