Great way of getting to know more about UAE's tradition and culture. I attended the lunch, that is served in the premises of SMCCU in the Bastakiya quarter. There's a local person that talks about culture and tradition and after that there's an open Q&A, all in a very relaxed and informal setting.

We went to the breakfast on our first morning in Dubai which was a really interesting way to get to know a little about the culture. We were able to ask any questions we wanted of the Muslim ladies on the morning. You can't help feel it is a little politicised, (especially having had the same processed answers at Jumeirah... More

The breakfast with locals at the SMCCU was my highlight of our most recent visit to Dubai. I wish this concept was adopted in other countries, too. We were at least half an hour early, but could already enter the communal area where breakfast would be served. We received a very warm welcome by two local woman and a man.... More

A fabulous cultural experience, including food, history, understanding dress codes and the respect of family in the Middle East. Presented with humour and mutual respect of open doors and open minds, I came away feeling comfortable and honoured to have gained insight to an unknown and previously inexperienced culture. I have nothing but respect for what Shiekh Mohammed Bin Rashid... More

Booked lunch at Drh 70 p.p. which provided ample of food but even more an excellent insight into the Arab culture and the why and how. Well prepared guide open to answer any question. Good way to get rid of prejudices and misguided opinions. Relaxed setting. Conversations in English with participants from all parts of the globe. Good way to... More

We started here by meeting two perceptive and highly intelligent Emirati ladies who introduced us to a traditional home, tokk us round the Bastakia quarter and visited a small local mosque. Nothing was too much trouble in explaining how life is organised in the UAE, how mosques work and what is important in Emirati culture. Over delicious Arabic coffee and... More

What a fantastic centre! They are so welcoming and warm, and they really open the lid on Emirati life in the UAE. Their open doors policy is refreshing as you can ask any question you want, regardless of how silly it may seem (although expect a silly answer back). Well worth a visit!!!

Fantastic cultural lunch, very entertaining and educational. Our presenter had a great sense of humour and put everything into context which made it easy to understand. The food was delicious and plentiful with something to suit all tastes. We felt so welcome and comfortable. I think everyone should visit to see a different perspective on Islam.

Was excellent and a really interesting place to visit. It's amazing to see the change in the country from pre to post oil discovery.