Tours and Tickets by Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
Authentic Emirati Cultural Meal and Talk in Old Dubai
Delve deeper into Dubai’s Bedouin-rooted culture than you could from just sightseeing at this Emirati meal. Visit a cultural center in Dubai’s oldest neighborhood, and take a seat with your host in a traditional, wind tower courtyard. Then, savor specialties such as “machboos” rice and syrup-soaked donuts as you learn about Dubai’s traditions, dress, and foods during a cultural talk and Q&A. A choice of meal times provides useful flexibility.
Read more
1 hour 30 minutes
Cultural Tour of the Al Fahidi Al Bastakiya District in Authentic Old Dubai
Spend 1.5 hours following an expert guide through one of Dubai's oldest neighborhoods on this Al Fahidi Al Bastakiya Historical District tour. You'll visit the Ruler's Court Mosque, sample Arabic coffee, sit inside an original wind-tower house dating back to the 19th century and gain an insider's look into the culture and traditions of this incredible destination.
Read more
1 hour 30 minutes
A Modern Glimpse of the Past from Dubai
Explore the age-old Bedouin customs, 20th-century architecture and atmospheric bazaars of Dubai during this 4-hour cultural-themed city tour. Travel through the city by private luxury vehicle, starting with a tour of the Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House and a walking tour of the historic Bastakiya Quarter. You’ll also have time explore the Camel Museum, Horse Museum and Heritage Village before checking out Al Fahidi Fort. This Dubai culture trip includes a guide, private vehicle and round-trip hotel transport.
Read more
4 hours
Walking Tour: Emirati Art and Cultural Tour From Dubai
Discover traditional Emirati culture and art on a 4-hour tour of old Dubai, with a local guide. See the mud-brick wind towers and courtyards of Al Bastakiya and Al Fahidi, visit boutique art galleries, and admire the beautiful Diwan Mosque. Savor Arabic coffee and fresh dates during a fascinating interactive question and answer session about Emirati life and culture; see Deira’s glittering Gold Souk, and explore women’s role in Emirati life and art at Dubai’s Women’s Museum. Numbers are limited to 15 for a small-group experience.
Read more
4 hours
Full day Historical and Cultural Dubai Tour
Dubai may be known for its ultra-modern buildings and flashy facade, but not long ago it was a humble fishing village. Learn more about the city’s rich heritage on this comprehensive tour. Visit historic neighborhoods, the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding, gold souks, Dubai Creek, Jumeirah Mosque, and more.
Read more
8 hours
1,206Reviews16Q&A
Reviews
Traveler rating
- 823
- 287
- 70
- 17
- 9
Traveler type
Time of year
Language
More
Selected filters
- Filter
- English
Popular mentions
Emiratis are not easily meet in UAE due to the low population in their country and they usually very private. This culture discussion over a traditional meal is something wonderful because it is hosted by young people and we can have an exchange over their culture from outsiders, how they navigate their life in Dubai while still holding their muslim values and keeping their mind open, how they see themselves compared to other GCC countries. Recommend!…
Read more
Helpful
It was a great decision to join the weekly Dinner Meal & Talk at Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Initially we're the only people turning up on time, so there was a slightly awkward feeling and soon other people joined us and we had a great time, both trying local dishes and discussing local customs, etc. People at the Centre were very hospitable and open minded, they made us feel welcomed and clearly explained everything. Although not everyone was equally interested in the local culture and some people asked pretty trivial questions at times, the host remained patient and understanding which was good. The room (chamber) where we had the meal was beautiful and we took quite a few pictures inside prior to the event, which was a nice memory. Next door there was a small souvenir shop where one could buy some local clothes and old photographs of the area. Also, once the session was over, we were invited outside to see a family of camels staying nearby. Nice surprise, indeed! Overall, I'd recommend to take part in one of their regular events if you want to find out more about true Emirati culture & local customs. Thank you.…
Read more
Date of experience: February 2020
Helpful
I thoroughly enjoyed the guided tour of the Al Fahidi Historical neighbourhood and Al Farooq Mosque, and afterwards I relished the introduction to a traditional Bedouin-style lunch which was plentiful, delicious and interesting. I gained valuable insights into the Emirati culture and history from this experience.…
Read more
Date of experience: February 2020
Helpful
We visited the Center for the second time. Last year we visited the Jumeirah Mosque. This year we had the cultural dinner. Our host was very open and we could ask all kinds of questions, related to food & drinks but also about religion and politics. The experience was very nice. The food was great and the discussions were wonderful.…
Read more
Date of experience: March 2020
Helpful
Great (very full!) lunch, cozy atmosphere. Got a lot of insights about Arabic culture. Really recommend.
Read more
Date of experience: March 2020
Helpful
