Ahmad AlRais and Hind bin Demaithan narrate the experiences and adventures of their cultural journeys across Dubai, recalling the most prominent journeys to places and cultural heritage scenes, showcasing for residents and visitors hidden treasures and the emirate’s rich historical and cultural heritage, which simulates the past, present and future, inspiring a continuous cycle of cultural experiences.

Based on her participation in the #DubaiDestinations initiative within the ‘Soul of Dubai – Cultural Experiences’ initiative, which sheds light on Dubai’srich Emirati culture and highlights its authentic traditions, Hind bin Demaithan said: “I visited many places in the emirate, such as Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center – Camel Farm, Walid Mohammad Bakhit Bakery, and Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Though I had already been to these places before, I wanted to experience them through this initiative to show people that while Dubai has amazing, modern architecture, it also has heritage places and experiences that represent an added value that is as important.”

Bin Demaithanadded: “One of these experiences is the camel farm, which is a hidden gem. We have a lot of camel farms in the UAE that are open for tourism, but the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center – Camel Farm, specifically, sheds light on the tradition of camel riding.The reason I chose this place is due to two reasons that connect me with camels: my upbringing and culture and my name, Hind, which means 100 camels. Therefore, I wanted everyone, whether citizens, residents, or tourists, to appreciate camels and discover their importance to Emirati culture. As for my choice of the Walid Mohammed Bakhit Bakery and dukkan, it is due to its traditional symbol as a shop (dukkan) that is one of the few legacy establishments that still exists in the emirate beneath all its modernism and skyline.”

Bin Demaithanconcluded: “It is true that the USA is widely known as the land of dreams, but Dubai is the land that turns dreams into reality, whether in the cultural, organisational or individual aspect. In Dubai, what we were promised in the past we see in the present, and what we are promised in the present, we look forward to in the near future. Dubai means everything to me; it is a reflection of who we are as a multi-cultural nation that opens its doors to everyone, allowing them to grow as the city grows.”

Dr Ahmad AlRais said: “The places I visited in Dubai included the Al Ras area, Al Bait ALqadeemand the Souq in Deira, Etihad Museum, Jumeirah Beach, and the Majlis in Bur Dubai. We set out from Deira, which is Dubai’sold downtown that was one the centre of business activity. We started with an Emarati breakfast (Balaleet) at Al Bait ALqadeem, followed by a walk around the old neighbourhoods, visits to the old souqs, and a ride on the abra, which was the main means of transport at the time. We then toured Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, reminiscing on where I used to live. These beautiful museums used to be houses, one of which was for a relative of mine. Next, we visited Etihad Museum and concluded the tour at my favourite spot on Jumeirah Beach, where I take my walks, used to be. I still come with my father to the beach. I regularly visit these places where I grew up and that represent a part of me.”

AlRais added: “The beauty of Dubai is that it is always changing and evolving. The new souq and the alleys, for example, have been restored, and I would love to see more of our elderly out sharing their experiences and teachings with us. This experience brought me so many memories that will always be with me.”

AlRais concluded: “Dubai is my city, and it has always been beautiful; I grew up with Dubai, and we grew through it. The emirate is simple yet sophisticated; I am grateful for everything it taught and gave me. In the past, it may have been more family-oriented, but today, it is a symbol of progress through which I see a better future for us all.”