#heritage
The Khanjar: A Guide to Oman's Iconic Dagger
Discover the history, craftsmanship and cultural significance of the khanjar, the traditional curved dagger that symbolises Omani identity and pride.
Al-Ayyala: The Gulf's Traditional Stick Dance of Unity and Pride
Discover the history and movements of al-ayyala, a stick dance performed across the Gulf that symbolises courage and community.
Al Zubarah Fort: A Practical Guide to Qatar's UNESCO Heritage Site
Explore the ruins of a once-thriving pearl fishing and trading town, protected by a restored fort and surrounded by desert.
The Ramadan Cannon: A Gulf Tradition That Signals Iftar
For generations, the boom of the Ramadan cannon has marked the moment of iftar across the Gulf. Discover the history and enduring appeal of this beloved tradition.
Falaj: The Ancient Water Channels That Still Sustain the Gulf
Discover the traditional irrigation systems of Oman and the UAE, where gravity-fed channels have brought life to arid lands for millennia.
The Hakawati: Reviving the Gulf's Ancient Art of Storytelling
The hakawati, or traditional storyteller, once brought Gulf communities together with epic tales and moral fables. Here's how this oral tradition is being kept alive today.
The Bisht: A Guide to the Gulf's Ceremonial Cloak
The bisht is a flowing outer cloak worn by men across the Arabian Gulf on special occasions, symbolising dignity, prestige and hospitality.
Al Khous: The Gulf's Timeless Palm Frond Weaving Craft
Discover the traditional craft of al khous, where palm fronds are woven into baskets, mats and fans that have served Gulf households for centuries.
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.
A practical guide to exploring Al Balad, Jeddah's historic old town
Wander through coral-stone houses, bustling souqs and hidden courtyards in the UNESCO-listed heart of Jeddah. Here is how to plan your visit.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: A Practical Guide to Old Dubai
Wander the narrow lanes of Dubai's oldest residential quarter, where wind towers, courtyards and coral-stone walls offer a quiet contrast to the modern skyline.
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.
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.
Al Ain Oasis: a practical guide to walking the UAE's great palm garden
Shaded lanes, ancient water channels and tens of thousands of date palms: here is how to make the most of a visit to Al Ain's historic oasis.
Bahrain's Pearling Path: a walking guide to Muharraq's UNESCO heritage trail
A gentle walk through Muharraq's old lanes traces the story of Gulf pearling, from the merchants' homes to the waters where divers once worked.