Traditions and customs in Abu Dhabi

1. Majlis hospitality

The sitting room where guests are received, and the coffee-and-dates ritual that opens any meeting.

• Tip: Take the cup with your right hand; shake it side to side when you have had enough or it keeps being refilled.

2. Falconry

A Bedouin hunting tradition and the national symbol, with a dedicated falcon hospital open to visitors.

3. Camel racing

Winter races with robot jockeys, at tracks outside the city, and free to watch.

• Best time: October to April

4. Ramadan and iftar

Daytime eating and drinking in public are prohibited for everyone; the evening meal is the compensation.

5. Al Ayyala dance

A UNESCO-listed line dance with bamboo canes, performed at weddings and national days.