Zayed National Museum launches Emirati Sanaa programme exploring values and etiquette central to Emirati life

Throughout July and August, public programming at Zayed National Museum will be presented under the theme The Emirati Sanaa, exploring the system of values and etiquette that guides Emirati life and encompasses respect, generosity and hospitality. Through a selection of workshops, guided museum tours, access initiatives and summer camp experiences, the programme highlights how these values continue to strengthen community and cultural identity today.

The Dhiyafa: Creating an Emirati Coffee Blend workshop invites participants to create their own Emirati coffee blend while learning traditional preparation methods and serving etiquette. They will explore ingredients, grind coffee using a menhas (mortar) and mix their own blend. Each participant will take home their coffee as a personal, culturally inspired keepsake. Suitable for ages 10 and above.

In the Takiya Embroidery workshop, participants will embroider a small takiya (cushion) inspired by the majlis, a space rooted in gathering and the sanaa values of hospitality, respect and generosity. The final piece becomes a meaningful keepsake inspired by majlis traditions and cultural connection. Suitable for ages 10 and above.

The drop-in workshop Patterns in Hospitality invites participants to paint and decorate a finyan (cup). Participants will explore traditional patterns while transforming the traditional gahwa (Arabic coffee) finyan into a personalised object. The finished piece becomes a keepsake inspired by cultural traditions and connections. Suitable for ages 6 and above.

The Emirati Sanaa guided tours will explore how sanaa is represented within the museum collection and as a system of values and etiquette that shapes Emirati life. From the majlis as a space for gathering and learning, to the traditions of preparing and serving Emirati coffee, participants will discover how hospitality, respect and connection are expressed in everyday practices. The tour highlights how these traditions form a deeper cultural framework that strengthens human connection and community.

In addition to the museum’s regular access programmes, the UAE history tour and Voices of the Coast Programme led by senior Emiratis will continue through July and August, highlighting Sheikh Zayed’s legacy, Emirati hospitality traditions and connections to sanaa and coastal life in UAE. These experiences run alongside the ongoing Quiet Morning, Al Dhuha Hour, and A Walk Through Our History (available in Emirati Sign Language).

Zayed National Museum will host its first summer camp experience, offering young learners the opportunity to explore the history and culture of the UAE. The first session runs from 6 July to 7 August as part of Abu Dhabi Culture Summer Camps 2026, welcoming children aged 5 to 14 to explore weekly themes inspired by the UAE’s heritage through guided gallery experiences, storytelling and hands-on workshops.