The Dubai Creek, which divides the city into two parts, has had a big effect on the culture of Dubai. The Southern part of the city, called ‘Bur Dubai’ has a more traditional culture than the northern area of ‘Deira’. Original settlements in Dubai were all around the Dubai Creek, and have been used to transport goods and people over the years.

The United Arab Emirates has an Islamic culture, with strong ties to the rest of the Arab world. The ruler of the Emirates is committed to preserving traditional forms of culture and art, and there are many cultural centres dotted around the city. Very few records pertaining to the cultural history of the UAE actually exist due to the country’s vocal traditions of passing on folklore and myth. Nothing was written down due to this, so much of the ancient records have been lost.

Dubai is a very multicultural society, with many different ethnic groups living in the city. Although the main religion is Muslim, there are a lot of Hindus and Christians living in Dubai making it very multi-ethnical society and making the culture what it is today. Evidence of the different societies can be seen all around. Bollywood films are greatly enjoyed in Dubai, with International Film Festivals being hosted to celebrate both Arab and International cinema.

The diversity of cuisine in Dubai is also reflected on the different nationalities of the people living in the city, as well as the cosmopolitan way of life. The Arabic food that is available in Dubai tends to be borrowed from other parts of the Middle East, especially from Lebanon and Iran.  Shawarma stands are found all over the city and are extremely popular. Shawarma is a style of sandwich composed of shaved lamb, goat or chicken served in pita bread with tomato and cucumber.

Makbus is another popular dish, which is a casserole of lamb or fish cooked with rice. South Asian and Chinese cuisine is also readily available in the city. The sale of pork is not illegal in Dubai, although it is regulated and sold only to non-Muslims. This is the same for alcoholic beverages, and a liquor permit is required to purchase alcohol.