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Glimpses of the UAE brings you hidden gems, golden oldies, old treasures, new treasures, a few foodie recommendations, quiet beaches, lively waterfronts, great camping spots, hiking trails, interesting museums, inspiring art spots and much more. In short, a guide to exploring and discovering the northern emirates of the UAE.

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Glimpses of the UAE

2 hours ago

Glimpses of the UAE
Traditions around birth This weekend I met my first step-grandchild. He was born two weeks earlier but sadly the same day covid symptoms arrived in our home. So what happens in Emirati culture when a baby is born? After the midwife hands the newborn over, the father holds the baby facing Makkah and says the words of the adhan, or call to prayer, in the baby’s right ear and then the Iqama, the shorter call directly before the prayer, in the left ear, making them the first words they hear. Another tradition is to rub the gums with something sweet, usually a date. This was a practice of the Prophet Mohammed pbuh. A tradition that is disappearing due to health concerns is applying kohl around the baby’s eyes. Visitors often come to the hospital, not only immediate family. Others will visit the newborn at home a few days later. They usually come bearing gifts. If it’s a girl, close relatives and friends often buy gold such as earrings. Others buy gifts like cradles, baby carriers, clothes, etc. Emiratis are very generous with their gifts. No lists are made of what is needed and most would feel shy to ask. They also often bring elaborate displays of chocolates or flowers. The mother usually goes to her mother’s home for 40 days where she’ll have help.Visitors at home and often at hospital too are served Arabic coffee and tea, snacks, fruit and sweets. The mother will have prepared favours to give to visitors like the one in the photo. These often contain a chocolate but may also contain bukhoor for example.A drink is made from red seed (habbat al hamra) and custard to help the mother’s recovery and this may also be offered to visitors. At some point, traditionally on the seventh day, the baby’s head will be shaved. The equivalent weight of the hair should be given in silver to charity. Many people continue shaving the head in the early years as they believe it improves the thickness and beauty of the hair. Finally, an animal such as a goat, cow or camel is usually slaughtered and the meat is either served as a meal to visitors and/or others or distribute the meat to family and the poor. A new baby is a joyous occasion for all the family! ... See MoreSee Less

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Glimpses of the UAE

3 days ago

Glimpses of the UAE
Condolences to the Al Nahyan family and the people of the UAE on the passing of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. A very sad day for the UAE. ‎إِنَّا لِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ Verily we belong to God and to Him we return. ... See MoreSee Less

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