Authentic Emirati Cultural Meal and Talk in Old Dubai
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy an Authentic Emirati Meal and Cultural Talk in the one of the oldest areas of Dubai, Al Fahidi Al Bastakiya Historical District in our traditional wind tower courtyard. The Meal starts with Arabic Coffee and Dates and is followed by a selection of Emirati local dishes and desert featuring Ligamat and date syrup. After the meal your host or hostess will serve up tea and talk in our Landmark "Open doors. Open minds." cultural exchange. Guests are encouraged to ask questions about local culture and as our motto suggests, no question is off limits. The session concludes with an explanation of the local dress, and guests are welcome to volunteer to try on the attire.
Available options
Cultural Dinner
Join us for a traditional Emirati Meal & Talk at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in the ambiance of our windtower home in Old Dubai .
Cultural Lunch
Join us for a traditional Emirati Meal & Talk at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in the ambiance of our windtower home in Old Dubai .
Cultural Breakfast
Join us for a traditional Emirati Meal & Talk at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in the ambiance of our windtower home in Old Dubai .
What's included
Q & A Session with experienced guide about local culture and traditions
Visit includes Authentic Emirati cuisine
Water, Arabic coffee. tea and dates and served
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our cultural meals are hosted at the SMCCU in a traditional wind-tower house in the Al Fahidi neighbourhood, are an excellent opportunity to learn within an informal environment. The topics of discussion are generated by questions from the guests and lead by one of our cultural presenters. The programme is designed to be entertaining, educational and informative. Topics include Arabic culture, Islam and its impact on local culture, cultural values and sensitivities, important Arabic greetings and expressions as well as insightful anecdotes.
What's not included
Transportation to/from attractions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
43 reviews
5★
36
4★
5
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
122 reviews
5★
110
4★
10
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Meeting point
Next to Al Seef
Important notes
• Remember to ask our guides the questions on your mind. We will answer them with "Open doors. Open minds."
About Dubai
Dubai is a city of superlatives, known for its futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant culture. It offers a unique blend of traditional Arabic heritage and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Burj Khalifa
The tallest building in the world, offering breathtaking views from its observation decks.
Architecture
1-2 hours
AED 149-500 (USD 40-140)
Dubai Mall
One of the largest shopping malls in the world, featuring a vast array of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.
Shopping
Half day to full day
Free entry, activities vary in cost
Palm Jumeirah
A man-made island shaped like a palm tree, featuring luxury resorts, residential areas, and the iconic Atlantis The Palm resort.
Architecture
Half day to full day
Varies by activity
Old Dubai (Al Fahidi)
The historic district of Dubai, showcasing traditional Emirati architecture, museums, and cultural experiences.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore, museum entry AED 3 (USD 0.80)
Dubai Creek
A historic waterway that divides Dubai into two main sections, offering traditional abra rides and access to souks.
Cultural
2-3 hours
AED 1 (USD 0.30) for abra ride
Dubai Marina
A modern waterfront district featuring luxury yachts, high-rise buildings, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
Waterfront
Half day to full day
Free to explore, activities vary in cost
Must-Try Local Dishes
Al Harees
A traditional Emirati dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency.
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians.
Machboos
A spiced rice dish cooked with meat, typically chicken or lamb, and flavored with saffron and cardamom.
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians.
Luqaimat
Sweet dumplings made from a batter of flour, yeast, and cardamom, deep-fried and drizzled with date syrup.
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains gluten.
Kahwa
A traditional Arabic coffee flavored with cardamom and served with dates.
Drink
Contains caffeine, can be prepared with or without sugar.
Popular Activities
Dune bashing
Skydiving
Hot air ballooning
Skiing at Ski Dubai
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yacht cruises
Shopping
Best Time to Visit
November to March
This is the best time to visit Dubai, with pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city hosts numerous events and festivals during this period.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED)
Time Zone
GMT+4
Electricity
220-240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Dubai is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid sharing personal information with strangers
Getting there
By air
- Dubai International Airport • 5 km from city center
- Al Maktoum International Airport • 50 km from city center
By bus
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Gold Souk Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned. Uses a contactless payment system (Nol Card).
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Dubai
Jumeirah
Deira
Dubai Marina
Day trips
Abu Dhabi
140 km from Dubai • Full day
The capital of the UAE, offering a mix of modern architecture and traditional heritage sites.
Hatta
115 km from Dubai • Half day to full day
A picturesque mountain area with a dam, heritage village, and outdoor activities.
Musandam Peninsula
200 km from Dubai • Overnight
A stunning coastal area known as the 'Norway of Arabia' for its fjords and clear waters.
Festivals
Dubai Shopping Festival • January-February
Dubai World Cup • March
Dubai Food Festival • February-March
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
- Use the Nol Card for easy and discounted access to public transport.
- Bargain when shopping in souks, but do so politely and respectfully.
- Try traditional Emirati dishes at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
- Book tickets for popular attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, in advance to avoid long queues.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
