Emirati Traditions: Births and Graduations Galore!
- by WONDERMOM
- Oct. 4, 2023
When it comes to celebrating life’s most cherished moments, the UAE boasts a rich tapestry of traditions. From the euphoria of welcoming a newborn to the pride of witnessing a graduation, Emirati traditions for births and milestones are truly something to behold. Let’s dive into this vibrant world of celebrations and see what makes them so unique!
Bouncing Babies and Emirati Welcomes
The birth of a child is a monumental event in any culture, and the Emiratis have their own exquisite ways to celebrate. Emirati Traditions for Births include a mix of religious customs and community festivities.
One of the first traditions, occurring seven days after the birth, is the ‘aqeeqah’. This involves the shaving of the baby’s hair, which is then weighed, and its equivalent in silver is given to charity. It’s a beautiful gesture of gratitude and charity.
But that’s not all! The baby is also given a name during this ceremony. While you might be busy choosing between Aisha or Fatima, or perhaps Ahmed or Khalid, don’t forget to indulge in the tradition of serving delicious lamb to your guests. The community gathers, blessings are showered, and everyone revels in the joy of the newest member.
Graduation Gaiety: Caps, Gowns, and Emirati Flair
Fast forward a few years (or maybe a couple of decades), and it’s time to celebrate another grand milestone: graduation! While the modern trappings of caps and gowns are present, the Emiratis add their own special touches.
Families come together, often hosting grand feasts to honour the academic achievements of their kin. Poetry, a significant aspect of Emirati culture, is often recited. These poetic verses, known as Nabati, praise the graduate’s dedication and hard work. So, amidst the delicious spread of kebabs and biryanis, don’t be surprised if your Aunt Fatimah stands up and delivers a heartfelt poetic tribute!
Another fun tidbit? Graduates might wear their traditional Emirati attire under their graduation robes. It’s a beautiful fusion of modern academia and rich heritage.
Gathering and Gifting
Throughout both these milestones, one thing remains constant: the love and support of the community. Be it Emirati Traditions for Births or graduations, gifts, blessings, and well wishes flow abundantly. And while gifts like gold bracelets or educational books are common, the real gift is the time spent together, cherishing these once-in-a-lifetime moments.
So, next time you find yourself wrapping a gift for an Emirati baby shower or graduation party, remember you’re not just celebrating a milestone. You’re part of a timeless tradition, echoing with the laughter and joy of generations past.