Nov 163 min read

An Emirati’s Love for Interior Décor

Blending Heritage and Modernity: My Journey of Creating a Home That Tells a Story

I have had the privilege of calling the United Arab Emirates home for the past 10 years. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to discover the rich Emirati culture, particularly their remarkable tradition of hospitality.

It is truly an honour to share the story of my dear Emirati friend Zainab AlAmeeri.

Walking through my home, you’ll immediately feel a sense of warmth, comfort, and an unmistakable connection to the past. As an Emirati, the art of interior decoration goes beyond just aesthetics — it’s a tribute to our heritage, a way of surrounding ourselves with the history and culture that have shaped who we are.

Growing up in the UAE, my childhood was filled with memories of sitting in the majlis, where family and friends gathered to share stories, laughter, and, of course, the aroma of freshly brewed Arabic coffee served from a shining dallah into delicate finjan cups. For us, every element in our home carries meaning.

In every Emirati household, the majlis holds a place of great significance. It is more than just a sitting area; it is a symbol of our deep-rooted tradition of hospitality. The majlis is where guests are welcomed with open arms, and where the heart of our culture comes alive. Here, we offer a basket of fresh fruits, along with traditional Arabic coffee, karak tea, and an array of delicious sweets and treats. It’s customary to ensure that every guest feels cherished, and it is not uncommon for us to warmly insist that they stay for a full meal — a gesture that embodies our value of hospitality.

One of the most cherished traditions we uphold is our love for perfumes and fragrances. As part of welcoming our guests, we offer them a chance to indulge in our treasured oud and bukhoor. The rich, smoky aroma of oud fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s a gesture of goodwill and generosity — offering guests fragrant oils and perfumes to wear, ensuring they leave our home carrying the scent of our hospitality. This ritual is a way of making every guest feel special, enveloped in the luxurious essence of our culture.

When I personally started decorating the interior of my own majlis, my primary thought was on how to blend the beauty of our rich culture with minimalist modern designs. This led me to choose a neutral shade of beige for my sofas, while adding a pop of color through a vibrant carpet that captures the spirit of our heritage. To complement this, I introduced touches of gold in the wall mirror and table centrepieces, adding a touch of elegance that reflects both tradition and contemporary style.

There’s something truly special about incorporating these timeless touches into a modern home. In a world that is rapidly changing, where sleek and minimalist designs are becoming the norm, I find immense joy in surrounding myself with elements that remind me of my roots. The oud burners that release their sweet, smoky fragrance, the sounds of lively conversation in the majlis, and the delicious aroma of traditional Emirati dishes — all these details make my house feel like a true home.

In the end, it’s not just about having a beautiful home; it’s about creating a space that tells a story — a story of heritage, love, and the unbreakable bond we have with our roots. That, to me, is what truly makes a house feel like home.