Duo launches book on Emirati culture
I wanted to live the moments that make us who we are. Unfortunately, we tend to take them for granted.” Roudha Al Marri, co-author
We wanted to break cultural barriers and explain the cultural peculiarities and curiosities to those who are interested.” Ilaria Caielli, co-author
dubai — Two authors — an Emirati and Western expat — have together published a guidebook on Emirati culture to give tourists and aspiring residents a better understanding of local customs and traditions. Emirati Roudha Al Marri and Italian Ilaria Caielli co-authored UAE 101: Stories and Cultural Learnings, a collection of 101 anecdotes and tips that combine individual experiences, local traditions and history from two different perspectives.
Marked by its simple writing style and funky illustrations, the guidebook combines Al Marri’s personal stories and experiences as an Emirati woman with Caielli’s informative explanation with historical references and practical information. The book addresses comprehensive aspects of the UAE daily life from gifting, raising pets to making friends and using the common Emirati phrases. The UAE history, eating customs, folklore and lifestyle guide aim to help foreigners interact culturally and socially with Emiratis. “We wanted to break cultural barriers and explain the cultural peculiarities and curiosities to those interested in visiting, living or working in the UAE,” said Caielli, writer and contributor.
The book’s idea came to life when the former Abu Dhabi neighbours in the same compound met and had a chat about how different cultures behave and interact differently. “Beyond the country’s glamour, there’s a lot of rich traditions and values that even people who are living in UAE for years do not know much about,” said Caielli.
She agreed to write the informative part that required about eight months of work and research from different libraries and archives. “It isn’t a travel book, but more of a cultural guide that showcases Emirati identity and uniqueness of the country,” said Caielli, who now lives in Cyprus with her husband and two children.
The book will be distributed across main libraries and airports by the end of the week. A digital version will also be available soon.