Culture
Events, festivals, music, film and the arts.
The Date Palm: The Gulf's Tree of Life
From shade in the oasis to the sweet heart of hospitality, the date palm has shaped Gulf culture for centuries. Discover its traditions, uses and enduring role.
Henna in the Gulf: A Living Art of Celebration and Beauty
From weddings to Eid, henna remains a beloved tradition across the Gulf states. Here is why this natural art form still captivates people of all backgrounds.
Traditional Gulf Jewellery: A Living Heritage of Silver and Meaning
From silver kohl bottles to intricate bridal necklaces, traditional Gulf jewellery tells stories of family, protection and identity.
Bukhoor: The Gulf's Fragrant Incense Tradition
A guide to bukhoor, the scented wood chips and resins that perfume homes, clothes and gatherings across the Arab Gulf, and how you can enjoy this ancient ritual.
Arabic Calligraphy: A Living Art in the Gulf
Arabic calligraphy is more than beautiful writing—it’s a spiritual and artistic tradition deeply woven into Gulf architecture, crafts and modern design. Discover its classical styles and where to see this living heritage.
Fijiri: The Pearl Divers' Music That Still Echoes Across the Gulf
Discover the rhythmic chants and drumming that once guided Gulf pearl divers through long months at sea, and how the tradition lives on today.
The Wind Towers of the Gulf: A Timeless Cooling Tradition
Centuries before air conditioning, Gulf architects designed ingenious wind towers to cool homes naturally. Here is how they worked and where you can still see them today.
Gahwa: A Guide to the Gulf's Arabic Coffee Ritual
From the distinctive dallah pot to the tiny handleless cups, Arabic coffee is central to Gulf hospitality. Here is what to expect and how to take part respectfully.
The Art of Falconry: A Timeless Gulf Tradition
From Bedouin hunting to modern competitions, falconry has shaped Gulf identity for centuries. Explore the skills, rituals and symbols that keep this UNESCO-listed heritage alive.
Kings of Leon replace Zara Larsson at Abu Dhabi F1 after-race concert
American rockers return to Yas Marina Circuit on December 3, joining Lewis Capaldi on the opening night of the four-day series, while Jennifer Lopez, Imagine Dragons and The Chainsmokers round out the weekend.
UAE events: Riverdance, Abdul Majeed Abdullah and more this November
From Irish dance at Etihad Arena to Arabic pop at Coca-Cola Arena, here are the UAE live events to book in early November.
Nigerian Artist Creates Comics Where Children with Albinism Are Heroes
Dapo Richard Oni's new project, created with Okechukwu Omeire, turns his own childhood into a story of resilience for young readers.
Majlis Culture: How the Gulf's Gathering Tradition Works
The majlis is more than a sitting room. It is where families host, neighbours talk and guests are welcomed, and a few simple customs help visitors feel at ease.
Sadu Weaving: The Bedouin Textile Craft Woven Into Gulf Heritage
Sadu is the geometric, hand-woven textile tradition of Bedouin women across Arabia. Here is how it is made, what the patterns mean and how to appreciate it.
Understanding the Oud: The Gulf's Most Treasured Instrument
With its warm, rounded voice, the oud sits at the centre of Arab music. Here is how it works, where it fits in Gulf traditions and how to listen well.
Ardah: The Sword Dance at the Heart of Gulf Celebrations
Drums, poetry and swords come together in the ardah, a traditional performance seen at national days, weddings and festivals across the Gulf. Here is what to look for.
Nabati Poetry: The Spoken Art That Still Shapes Gulf Culture
Nabati poetry, written in the everyday Arabic of the Gulf, has long carried the region's stories, humour and values. Here is how to understand it and where to hear it.