The history of the Emirati people is that of tribespeople. Just 40 years ago they were basically still living in tents in the desert, and groups of families were headed by an elder. And while they no longer live in tents, family continues to be their priority.
I had noticed two aspects of the current Emirati lifestyle that to me seem to be connected to their roots, but it has taken me 2 years to put all of this together!
Once the weather breaks – which is about to happen at the beginning of November – everyone begins to spend more time outdoors, especially in the evenings. I had noticed over the years that on the cooler weekend evenings, including friday afternoons, hundreds of Emirati families would picnic everywhere. And I do mean everywhere! Not just on the beaches or the many parks that have been created, but on every grassy corner that could be found. They bring blankets, chairs, tables, games, small BBQ grills, and tons of food! They spend hours, until late in the evening, spending time with family and friends. The kids are playing games – soccer is the most popular! – and adults are chatting and relaxing together. I have always admired their peacefulness and ability to totally relax and forget about housework, school work, computers, or other chores, and just be together. I have never seen anything like this in the US.
Another aspect of the way of life here has also intrigued me and it wasn’t until very recently that I made its connection to their history. It is common here for different members of one extended Emirati family to live together in the same home – or villa as it is called here. These villas are rather large and may have different wings or sections for each family. While it would be very common for larger homes like these to be in gated communities or on water front property in the States, most of the larger villas here are found on the main roads, or in small cul de sacs. So it does not seem to be the location per say that is the most important aspect of their home (as we have been taught in the States), but the fact that they can all be together – no matter where that is. I find this very special. Again I find it an extension of their roots. While it’s not tents they are living in now, they still value being together as the most important thing.
I admire their strong sense of family. The ex-pat community doesn’t have family here so we are all a bit jealous of their being able to spend time together and their commitment to putting family first!
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