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Dubai's culture is firmly rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia. Islam is more than just a religion, it is a way of life that governs even the minutiae of everyday events, from what to wear to what to eat and drink. Thus the culture and heritage of Dubai is tied to its religion. However foreigners are free to practice their own religion. Alcohol is served in hotels and the dress code is liberal. Women face little discrimination and, contrary to the policies of neighboring countries, are able to drive and walk around unescorted. People in Dubai are generous, friendly and polite.
The rapid economic development over the last 30 years has changed life in the Emirates beyond recognition in many ways. However, the country's rulers are very aware of the danger that their traditional heritage will be eroded by the speed of development and increased access to outside cultures and material goods. Hence, they are keen to promote cultural or sporting events that are representative of their past, such as falconry, camel racing or dhow sailing. However, traditional aspects of life are still visible, most obviously in the clothes, since local citizens still wear the long robes (the white Dishdash for men and the black Abaya for women) and head- dress.
Arabic culture in poetry, dancing, songs and traditional art is encouraged and weddings and celebrations are still colorful occasions of feasting and music.
Music
Opportunities to hear classical music performed in Dubai are extremely limited. The Dubai International Congress Center and The Crowne Plaza Hotel are the main venues that host visiting orchestras and musicians from around the world. Arabic nightclubs are the main venues for traditional Arabian music.
Theatre
There is only one permanent theatre company in Dubai. The Indian Playhouse, the Intercontinental Hotel, features performances by Burjor Patel Productions and hosts the traveling British Airways Playhouse, which makes frequent visits to Dubai.
Dance
There are no real dance companies in Dubai, but there are a number of dance schools including the renowned the Ballet Center, behind Jumeira Plaza, with ballet, jazz, tap and modern dance. In addition, belly-dancing and traditional dances are a mainstay in Arabic nightclubs, such as
Al-Diwan, Metropolitan Palace Hotel and Escoba, Al-Khaleej Palace Hotel.
Cultural events
Dubai's dominant culture is founded around the Muslim religion, with most of the main cultural events deeply religious with little opportunities for tourist to participate. The year's major event is the feasting of Ramadan, a month-long Muslim celebration of the truth of the Holy Koran. Directly following Ramadan is Eid
Al-Fitr, a three-day celebration. Eid Al-Adha is the four-day celebration that follows the main pilgrimage to Mecca (the
Haj).
Literary Notes
There is not a great deal of English-language material on Dubai and many of the best local authors do not translate their work from Arabic to English. Muhammed
al-Murr is one of the most revered local writers and it also worth trying to get a copy of his other famous book, "The Wink of the Mona Lisa".
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