Creating a Nation through Heritage: Emiratization of the Coffee Pot (Dallah)

Abstract

Coffee plays a significant role in today’s Arab culture, and it has long been considered one of the main aspects of Arab history, culture, heritage, and hospitality. It has even been recognized by UNESCO, which added Arabic coffee to its Intangible Cultural Heritage List following the application by several Gulf countries. This study explores the nation-building process of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through its heritage, with specific reference to the coffee pot (dallah). The UAE forms its national identity (the Emirati identity) by deriving it from a broader identity (that is, being Arab) and defining it to a regional identity (Khaleeji). Moving from a regional to a national identity is intended to unite the seven emirates under one standard identity, but at the same time contain common characteristic features and solidarity with Khaleej and other Arabs. Slight differences to strengthen the desired national (Emirati) identity and differentiate the UAE from the neighbors will be enough in creating national heritage. This study examines how the UAE attempts to create its own heritage, one that is common among its seven emirates, to unite them under one identity. The coffee pot, however, has common features with other Arab and Khaleeji countries, as can be clearly seen from the map. Meanwhile, the process is still in progress, and to date, no consensus has been achieved.

Measuring Café Lovability Using Google’s HEART and Understanding the Roles of Usability, Sustainability Innovation, and Innovation Cocreation in Café Lovability

“…The UAE, with its rich heritage, not only excels in hospitality but also preserves and promotes its culture and heritage through strategic initiatives. This also includes protecting the heritage of traditional Arabic Coffee (called Gahwa) along with the values of hospitality, respect, and etiquette when serving Arabic Coffee to guests [15]. A true Arabic coffee experience starts with roasting, grinding, and preparing the right blend of coffee using traditional utensils; it is then perfected to international standards of flavor, taste, sweetness, acidity, and aftertaste; technique, originality, and creativity are all demonstrated in the process; and finally, it is served with poise and etiquette to display authentic UAE hospitality and culture in an enjoyable coffee experience [16,17].…”