Learn all about Bedouin life in the UAE
The history of the UAE is diverse and immersive, brimming with tales of nomadic Arabs, or Bedouins, who once inhabited the region. Known for their unique lifestyle and hardy resourcefulness, they are an intrinsic part of the region and its heritage. Here are some of the most fascinating facts about Bedouin life in the UAE.
HISTORY OF BEDOUIN LIFE IN THE UAE
Archaeological evidence shows that Bedouin herders lived in the UAE, dwelling in a mangrove swamp area in Dubai between 2500 BCE and 3000 BCE. Back then, the community was into date palm cultivation. This is one of the most interesting facts about the history of Dubai.
According to the historical facts of Abu Dhabi, two popular areas – Umm Al Nar and Jebel Hafeet – were also home to Bedouin tribes in the UAE.
Famous for their honour, hospitality and courage, Bedouins survived water scarcity and other resources to create a life full of simple but beautiful traditions. For centuries, Bedouins moved from one place to another in the region in nomadic cycles to find water, fertile land and suitable weather conditions.
LIFESTYLE OF BEDOUINS IN THE UAE
Interested in knowing more about the Bedouin lifestyle in the UAE? Here are some interesting facts about them.
SURVIVAL IN THE DESERT
LIVING IN TENTS
Bedouins used to live in tents across the desert terrain in the UAE. Bedouin tents could have two to five sections (known as Bawahir), with a different number of poles supporting them. The higher the number of divisions and poles in the tent, the richer the owner was considered.
The tents were made of goat hair fibre, camel or sheep hair. In some cases, long strips (shiqaq) were used to form the tent’s roof. While creating tents, they ensured to choose a type of cloth that could withstand the seasonal and extreme weather conditions.
During summers, these tents could draw the air out from the inside and create a cooling effect, and become water-resilient and tighter when it rained or snowed during winters.
MAKING OBJECTS FROM ANIMAL SKIN
Bedouins used to make shoes and bags from animal skin, primarily goat and camel. While the shoes protected them from the hot desert sand, bags helped them store milk, water, and dairy products. Additionally, they used animal hair to make rugs, blankets, camel, horse trappings and carpets with intricate designs and beautiful colour patterns. Bedouin carpet weaving is a craft that is still alive today.
EATING AND DRINKING HABITS
Bedouins primarily consumed rice and food made of flour. Tea, nuts, dried fruits and goat meat were also part of their diet.
Goat milk was a popular beverage among the community, consumed after boiling it with thyme. Furthermore, they made butter (zibdeh) and buttermilk (laban) by churning milk in a bag made of animal skin. They used buttermilk to make thick cheese and clarified butter (samn).
BEDOUINS CLOTHING
They used to make their clothes from the wool of animals. Their clothes were both practical and fashionable, designed to keep them comfortable in the extremely hot summers and cold desert winters. While men wore loose-fitting white tunics with a headcloth and cloak, women preferred loose, flowy garments decorated with different patterns and protected by a special cover. It is one of the key Emirati traditions still followed today.
INTERESTS AND SKILLS
Bedus had a wide range of interests and skills. But we have compiled the most popular ones. Let’s take a look, shall we?
FALCONRY
Falconry is a popular sport associated with bedouins in the UAE. During hunting, they capitalised on the natural abilities of falcons. The strong, speedy and dexterous birds were used as an indispensable and effective hunting tool. Thus, they started training and taming the wild falcons for their own good.
CAMEL RACING
Not only were camels a source of food and milk for bedouins, but they were also used as racing animals and in show contests. Many camel races and beauty contests took place in that period. Even today, the tradition of camel racing in Dubai is drawn from the original Bedouin culture.
To experience the quintessence of Bedu life, you can head to the Al Marmoom desert in Dubai. From camel racing to stargazing, there is a lot to expect from activities in Al Marmoom!
NABATI POETRY
Known as the vernacular poetry form in the UAE, Nabati Poetry has a long-standing tradition. This poetry was an integral part of Bedouin culture in the UAE. Nabati Poetry in the UAE is known for its simplicity and honest expressions. It is still practised by many poets today.
BEDOUIN CULTURE AND TRADITIONS
LOYALTY
Bedouins are famous for their loyalty and honour. They have a strong moral compass that makes them loyal and faithful to their families, clans and tribes. While the Bedouin men hunted, traded and protected the family unit, women took care of the household.
HOSPITALITY
Hospitality was one of the key traits of bedouins. They would treat guests with the utmost respect and share food, coffee, dates and dry fruits with guests.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR CULTURAL FESTIVAL IN THE UAE?
Throughout the UAE, several festivals are conducted to honour and celebrate the local way of life. Al Dhafra Festival is one of the biggest celebrations of the local Bedouin culture and animal husbandry.
One of the most sought-after events of the festival is the Camel Beauty contest, where breeders from around the UAE participate to win an impressive cash prize.
WHERE CAN I EXPERIENCE BEDOUIN CULTURE IN DUBAI?
If you wish to experience the Bedouin culture in Dubai, Al Marmoom is a great option. Several tour operators offer an immersive Bedouin experience amidst the golden sand dunes. You can also participate in a traditional camel caravan and other activities.
IS THE BEDOUIN OASIS CAMP IN RAK WORTH VISITING?
The Bedouin Oasis Camp in RAK is luxurious and offers plenty of fun activities, including morning safari, quad bike tour and buggy ride. If you wish to experience the true Bedouin culture, the camp is definitely worth the visit.
That brings us to the end of our guide to Bedouin life in the UAE. You must also explore the hidden gems in Dubai if you want to know more about the country’s heritage. These awe-inspiring secret treasures open up a whole new avenue of discovery,
The district of Deira is one of the oldest areas in Dubai. Although the area is famous for the abra rides, it also features the Dubai Clock Tower, a symbol of the time of oil discovery in the region.
