POPULATION
The United Arab Emirates has a population of approximately 10 million, the vast majority of whom are foreign nationals. The population is concentrated along the coast of the Persian Gulf: Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the most populous cities, followed by Sharjah.
CAPITAL
The capital is Abu Dhabi, located on an island off the central-western coast; it is the seat of the federal government and home to the Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace. Among the city’s most iconic landmarks are the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Gulf Corniche.
CLIMATE
A desert climate, with scorching summers and mild, sunny winters.
• Summer (June–August): temperatures between 35 and 45 °C, with high humidity along the coast.
• Winter (December–February): Mild days around 24–28 °C, cool nights—it’s the best season to travel.
• Spring and fall: temperatures between 25 and 35 °C, gradually rising toward summer highs.
Rainfall is rare and occurs mainly during the winter months.
CURRENCY
The official currency is the United Arab Emirates dirham (AED). Convert the United Arab Emirates dirham to the Swiss franc.
SPOKEN LANGUAGES
• Arabic: official language.
• English: widely used in tourism, commerce, and services.
• Hindi, Urdu, and Tagalog: spoken by the many communities of foreign workers.
RELIGION
The predominant religion isIslam, which is practiced by the vast majority of the population. There are Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist minorities associated with foreign communities.
ART
The art scene in the Emirates blends Bedouin tradition with international cultural investments.
• Architecture: from adobe forts and wind towers to Dubai’s skyscrapers and museums designed by international architects.
• Handicrafts: palm-leaf weaving (khoos), pottery, and traditional jewelry.
• Music and dance: the ayyala, a group dance recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and Bedouin music from the Gulf.
• Art and history: the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the historic souqs, and the heritage villages of Al Fahidi and Hatta.
CULTURE
A company founded on hospitality and Bedouin traditions, open to international tourism.
• Family and Society: The family is the core; hospitality toward guests is an essential value.
• Traditional clothing: white kandura for men, black abaya for women.
• Holidays: Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, National Day on December 2.
• Traditions: falconry, camel races, and Arabic coffee served with dates as a gesture of welcome.
FOOD
Emirati cuisine has its roots in Bedouin traditions and in trade with India and Persia.
Traditional dishes:
• Shawarma: marinated meat cooked on a spit and wrapped in Arabic bread.
• Machboos: a spiced rice dish with chicken, lamb, or fish, similar to biryani.
• Harees: a creamy dish made with wheat and meat, typically served on festive occasions.
• Luqaimat: sweet fritters with honey and sesame seeds.
Beverages: Cardamom-flavored Arabica coffee (gahwa) and mint tea are served whenever guests are welcomed.
A rich and varied cuisine, featuring the flavors of spices, dates, and desert traditions.