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Hospitality is a deeply ingrained tradition in the Emirate of Sharjah, preserved and cherished across generations and evident in daily life. Arab hospitality here ensures guests feel genuinely welcomed and valued from the moment they arrive. Warm greetings and joyful expressions set the tone, followed by an invitation to the sitting area. The host then sprays fragrant perfumes like rosewater, saffron, sandalwood, and jasmine. It is also customary to burn incense, scenting both the home and guests’ clothing as a customary gesture of honour and respect.
In the Emirate of Sharjah, Arabic coffee is a symbol of hospitality, traditionally served in a dallah (coffee pot) infused with saffron and cardamom. The host pours the coffee into small cups, holding the cup in the right hand and the dallah in the left, and offers dates alongside. According to custom, the host refills the guest’s cup until the guest gently shakes it, a commonly recognised signal that they have had enough.
Another cherished tradition of Arab hospitality in the Emirate of Sharjah is “Al Fawala,” where hosts generously offer food and drinks to their guests. Commonly served dishes include luqaimat, al batheetha, and assedah, with many hosts often taking great care in preparing lavish feasts.
Many residents of Sharjah continue to follow traditional dining customs, such as eating with the right hand and sitting on the floor during meals. Despite cultural and modern influences, Emirati cuisine in Sharjah retains its authentic charm. This is reflected in the extensive use of spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, turmeric, and saffron, as well as herbs such as thyme, coriander, and mint, and dried fruits including pistachios and almonds.
Meat, rice, and fish are key ingredients in many traditional dishes. Among these, harees, stands out as a prominent dish, consisting mainly of wheat grain with added meat or chicken, and is particularly popular during Ramadan and other special occasions. Another significant dish is thareed, which features regag bread soaked in a meat broth and served with meat or chicken. Additionally, mathrooba, made with flour, salted fish, and spices, is also a notable traditional meal.
Other popular dishes include luqaimat, fried dough balls coated in date syrup; machbous, a spiced rice dish with meat; and saloonah, a spicy stew prepared with fish or chicken and a blend of spices.
Traditional Emirati clothing is renowned for its authenticity, simplicity, and adherence to classic Arab style. In Sharjah, as in other emirates, residents proudly wear this attire in their everyday lives and on special occasions, honouring their ancestors’ heritage and reflecting their own identity.
Men wear the kandura, or dishdasha, a long white robe that reaches the ankles. This traditional attire is often complemented by a head covering called a ghutra, worn over a small cap known as a gahfiya, and secured with a black cord called agal.
Women typically wear the abaya, a long black cloak worn over clothes, and cover their hair with a shayla (headscarf). Traditionally, some older women wear the burqa, which covers the mouth, nose, and eyebrows. Originally worn by Bedouin women, the burqa provided protection against the harsh desert weather.
Sharjah Emirate’s celebration of Ramadan continues to exude the same joy, family gatherings, and spirit of solidarity as in the past. One enduring tradition in Sharjah and throughout the Emirates is “Hag Al Lailah,” celebrated on the 15th night of Sha’aban to welcome Ramadan. On this night, children don traditional attire, carry embroidered cloth bags, and visit homes singing and reciting poems, while neighbours reward them with nuts and sweets. A notable song they sing includes the phrase, “Aatona Allah Yutikom, Bait Makkah Yudikum,” meaning, “Give us and Allah will reward you, and help you visit the House of Allah in Makkah.”
Alongside community iftar feasts, another cherished Ramadan tradition is the family gathering for iftar. On Ramadan's first day, families often convene at the grandparents’ home, where the iftar table is adorned with traditional dishes and dates. Meanwhile, the distant cannon fire echoes throughout the emirate, signalling the time for iftar and imsak.
The traditions of celebrating Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha in the Emirate of Sharjah mirror those observed throughout the UAE. Eid Al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, is celebrated with prayers, visiting loved ones, and wearing new clothes. On the other hand, Eid Al-Adha is characterised by the sacrifice of livestock (Udhiyah) and the distribution of meat to neighbours and the needy, which heightens social solidarity. Both Eids feature the custom of giving “Eidiya” (money and gifts) to children of family, friends, and neighbours, spreading joy on these festive occasions.
Folk dances and music form a cornerstone of Sharjah's cultural heritage. Ayala dance—often referred to as the “stick dance”— is particularly prominent. This traditional dance represents post-war victory, embodying strength, chivalry, and courage. Participants in Ayala stand in two opposing rows to signify unity and collaboration, moving to the rhythmic beat of drums during various national and social celebrations.
Authentic customs are deeply embedded in UAE culture, particularly prevailing in the Emirate of Sharjah. Among the most prominent of these are the breeding and organising of purebred Arabian horse races, the art of falconry involving the care and training of these birds, and the raising of camels, along with the organisation of camel races (Hijn race).
References
[1] visitsharjah.com, Local Customs
[2] u.ae, Food
[3] u.ae, Ramadan
[4] u.ae, Art
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