The Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) offers a unique cultural experience, featuring activities such as traditional Emirati meals, mosque visits, and guided heritage tours in the heart of Old Dubai. Founded in 1998 and inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, our mission is to promote cultural awareness and understanding among the UAE’s diverse communities. In 2015, the SMCCU proudly became a member of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to cultural dialogue and community engagement.
Discover the rich culture of Dubai and connect with local Emiratis!
Learn about the history, culture and traditions of the UAE through guided tours and programs
Explore the rich culture, traditions, and history of the UAE through award-winning cultural experiences led by local Emiratis in the heart of Old Dubai!
ACTIVITIES
Program Highlights
Cultural Meals
Have you ever tried authentic Emirati cuisine? Join the cultural Emirati breakfast with authentic Emirati dishes while chatting with your host about the traditions and history of the UAE for an hour and a half. Sit in the courtyard on traditional floor cushions. Taste the Arabic coffee and dates, along with a variety of local dishes, including dessert.
Educational Programs
The education programs at the Centre cater to national and international guests, providing an enriching experience of Emirati culture for guests of all ages. Our education programs vary and can be customized to your organization's needs. As well as providing unique programs like Teachers’ Cultural Induction and UAE National Day Events. We can tailor the programs for our international guests to focus on the elements and areas of interest.
Private Programs
Our bespoke corporate programmes and activities can support your company by promoting open communication, enhancing staff performance and increasing general corporate productivity. We are trusted by over 150 companies across the region to provide greater understanding of the UAE culture and encourage employee integration as well as developing communication channels between employee and client/customer.
Meet our
Cultural Presenters
Ahmed Al Jafflah
Senior Cultural Presenter & Protocol Manager
Ahmed Al Jafflah has been with the Centre since 2016, serving as Protocol Manager and Senior Cultural Presenter. Born in 1964, before the union of the Emirates, he offers fascinating stories and insights about life both before and after the UAE's formation in 1971.
With 29 years of experience at Emirates Airlines, Ahmed started in 1986 and represented the airline and the UAE at cultural events across the globe, including the UK, USA, Germany, Switzerland, Australia, France, and Portugal. He also worked as a VIP controller at Dubai Airport and later became Cabin Crew Manager, overseeing recruitment, induction, cultural training, and promotions.
Ahmed holds a diploma in business studies and computer technology from Exeter College in the UK, where he also worked for British Airways before returning to the UAE.
In his free time, Ahmed enjoys tending to his farm and camels in the desert, where he reconnects with his heritage. Passionate about sharing Emirati culture and Islam, Ahmed is known for his approachable nature and extensive knowledge, always welcoming questions from guests.
With 29 years of experience at Emirates Airlines, Ahmed started in 1986 and represented the airline and the UAE at cultural events across the globe, including the UK, USA, Germany, Switzerland, Australia, France, and Portugal. He also worked as a VIP controller at Dubai Airport and later became Cabin Crew Manager, overseeing recruitment, induction, cultural training, and promotions.
Ahmed holds a diploma in business studies and computer technology from Exeter College in the UK, where he also worked for British Airways before returning to the UAE.
In his free time, Ahmed enjoys tending to his farm and camels in the desert, where he reconnects with his heritage. Passionate about sharing Emirati culture and Islam, Ahmed is known for his approachable nature and extensive knowledge, always welcoming questions from guests.
Noura Al Marzooqi
Cultural Presenter
Noura Al Marzooqi, an enthusiastic cultural presenter from Abu Dhabi, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Emirati Studies from Zayed University. Noura travels from Abu Dhabi to Dubai every day to share the rich cultural heritage of her homeland with people from all walks of life.
As Cultural Presenter and Licensed Tour Guide, Noura aims to clear up misconceptions about the UAE and highlight the vibrant life and history of the region. She believes in the power of youth to shape the future and emphasizes the vital support they receive from the country’s leaders, encouraging them to actively participate in the nation’s growth and success.
As Cultural Presenter and Licensed Tour Guide, Noura aims to clear up misconceptions about the UAE and highlight the vibrant life and history of the region. She believes in the power of youth to shape the future and emphasizes the vital support they receive from the country’s leaders, encouraging them to actively participate in the nation’s growth and success.
Yousef Al Mannaee
Cultural Presenter & Head of Strategic Department
Yousef Al Mannaee began his journey at SMCCU in 2021 as a volunteer before taking on the role of Cultural Presenter. He also serves as the Head of the Strategic Department. Yousef holds a degree in Media and Business from the Higher Colleges of Technology in Dubai, graduating in 2020.
An entrepreneurial spirit, Yousef founded his first business, Fekrah Media Production, in 2018, providing opportunities for young Emiratis and collaborating with government authorities to deliver media services.
Yousef has a keen interest in international politics and stays informed about both national and global government developments. He enjoys reading, watching documentaries, and listening to podcasts.
In his cultural programs, Yousef often shares stories about Ras Al Khaimah, his hometown, focusing on its rich history, development, and family-oriented culture. He is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree at the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government.
An entrepreneurial spirit, Yousef founded his first business, Fekrah Media Production, in 2018, providing opportunities for young Emiratis and collaborating with government authorities to deliver media services.
Yousef has a keen interest in international politics and stays informed about both national and global government developments. He enjoys reading, watching documentaries, and listening to podcasts.
In his cultural programs, Yousef often shares stories about Ras Al Khaimah, his hometown, focusing on its rich history, development, and family-oriented culture. He is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree at the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government.
Sara Yousef
Cultural Presenter
Sara Yousef holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from the American University in Dubai and channels her passion for arts and culture into promoting and preserving Emirati heritage. With a strong focus on historic architecture and restoration, Sara utilizes her expertise to educate and engage others about the significance of cultural preservation.
In her programs, she explores the social and daily lives of people in the UAE's history, highlighting the environmental and historical influences that have shaped Emirati culture and traditions. Her goal is to provide insights into family dynamics and societal structures, providing deeper insights into their distinctive way of life.
In her programs, she explores the social and daily lives of people in the UAE's history, highlighting the environmental and historical influences that have shaped Emirati culture and traditions. Her goal is to provide insights into family dynamics and societal structures, providing deeper insights into their distinctive way of life.
Yousef Al Shamsi
Cultural Presenter
Born and raised in Dubai during its dynamic transformation, Yousef Al Shamsi enjoys sharing his personal experiences of the city’s growth.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Concordia University in Montreal and spent a decade working in South Korea, gaining valuable cross-cultural experiences. This exposure to diverse cultures has deepened his connection to his own Emirati heritage.
Passionate about theater, movies, history, and languages, Yousef is active in Dubai’s theater scene and seeks to raise awareness of the city’s growing arts community. He speaks Arabic, English, and French fluently, is proficient in Korean, and is currently studying Russian and Japanese.
In his presentations, Yousef creates a welcoming, relaxed environment that encourages open dialogue and the sharing of experiences.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Concordia University in Montreal and spent a decade working in South Korea, gaining valuable cross-cultural experiences. This exposure to diverse cultures has deepened his connection to his own Emirati heritage.
Passionate about theater, movies, history, and languages, Yousef is active in Dubai’s theater scene and seeks to raise awareness of the city’s growing arts community. He speaks Arabic, English, and French fluently, is proficient in Korean, and is currently studying Russian and Japanese.
In his presentations, Yousef creates a welcoming, relaxed environment that encourages open dialogue and the sharing of experiences.
Tracy Flook
Cultural Presenter & Supervisor of Jumeirah Mosque Majlis
Known to all as Latifa, Tracy Flook joined the SMCCU in 2006 as Cultural Presenter for the Jumeirah Mosque Visit. She also serves as Jumeirah Mosque Majlis Supervisor and is deeply committed to the Centre’s Open doors. Open minds. philosophy, which she shares with the mosque’s visitors.
Originally from England, Latifa moved to Dubai in 1992 after marrying her Emirati husband, and together they have three children. As a true bridge between international guests and the local community, Latifa brings unique insights into Emirati culture.
With her wealth of knowledge, warm personality, and humor, Latifa’s presentations are engaging and insightful. Fluent in Arabic, she adds a personal touch to every cultural exchange, leaving a lasting impression on her audience.
Originally from England, Latifa moved to Dubai in 1992 after marrying her Emirati husband, and together they have three children. As a true bridge between international guests and the local community, Latifa brings unique insights into Emirati culture.
With her wealth of knowledge, warm personality, and humor, Latifa’s presentations are engaging and insightful. Fluent in Arabic, she adds a personal touch to every cultural exchange, leaving a lasting impression on her audience.
Abdulla Al Jabri
Cultural Presenter & Supervisor of Jumeirah Mosque Majlis
Abdulla's journey with the Sheikh Mohammed Centre began in 2017 as a volunteer, and he became a full-time employee in 2021. Since then, he has committed himself to promoting cultural understanding, respect, and harmony within the UAE and beyond while leading initiatives at the Jumeirah Mosque Majlis.
Abdulla is currently pursuing a degree in marketing at City University in Ajman. His academic focus complements his passion for effective communication, allowing him to develop strategies that enhance the reach and impact of cultural programs while engaging diverse audiences. He strives to build meaningful connections that bridge cultural gaps, combining his marketing skills with a deep commitment to preserving and promoting the UAE's rich cultural heritage.
Outside of work and studies, Abdulla enjoys sports, especially football, where he plays left-wing, and treasures the time he spends with friends.
Abdulla is currently pursuing a degree in marketing at City University in Ajman. His academic focus complements his passion for effective communication, allowing him to develop strategies that enhance the reach and impact of cultural programs while engaging diverse audiences. He strives to build meaningful connections that bridge cultural gaps, combining his marketing skills with a deep commitment to preserving and promoting the UAE's rich cultural heritage.
Outside of work and studies, Abdulla enjoys sports, especially football, where he plays left-wing, and treasures the time he spends with friends.
Shaima Mohammed
Cultural Presenter & Media Supervisor
Shaima Mohammed joined SMCCU in 2020, initially serving as Cultural Presenter before expanding her role to include Business Coordinator. Currently, she works as Cultural Presenter and Media Supervisor.
Her goal at the SMCCU is to share insights into Emirati culture, drawing from her experiences living in three different Emirates. She strives to keep values and traditions alive, delivering her programs with a touch of humor to create a warm connection with her guests.
Shaima holds a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management from the University of Sharjah and earned her Master's degree in 2020 in Engineering Management. A dedicated volunteer since 2009, she has contributed over 900 hours to various events across the UAE, including assisting diplomats and consulates. She is also certified in First Aid by Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services.
Her goal at the SMCCU is to share insights into Emirati culture, drawing from her experiences living in three different Emirates. She strives to keep values and traditions alive, delivering her programs with a touch of humor to create a warm connection with her guests.
Shaima holds a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management from the University of Sharjah and earned her Master's degree in 2020 in Engineering Management. A dedicated volunteer since 2009, she has contributed over 900 hours to various events across the UAE, including assisting diplomats and consulates. She is also certified in First Aid by Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services.
Zaina Al Jabri
Operations Manager & Cultural Presenter
Zaina Al Jabri’s journey with SMCCU began in 2012 as a summer volunteer, followed by contributions to Ramadan cultural iftars in 2016 and 2017. These experiences sparked her passion for intercultural communication and prepared her for a future at the centre. She officially joined SMCCU in 2017, initially leading general cultural programs and later specializing in educational sessions for students, focusing on Emirati culture, heritage, and traditions.
As Operations Manager, Zaina oversees daily operations along with Human Resources and Employee Relations. Alongside her managerial duties, she continues to actively engage with students through her educational presentations, making Emirati culture accessible and engaging for young learners.
Zaina holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management from the University of Sharjah and a certification in Cultural Intelligence, enhancing her ability to connect with diverse audiences. Her experience managing teams and events has deepened her expertise in the centre’s operations.
In her free time, Zaina enjoys shopping, spending time with friends and family, and attending workshops that inspire her continuous learning and growth.
As Operations Manager, Zaina oversees daily operations along with Human Resources and Employee Relations. Alongside her managerial duties, she continues to actively engage with students through her educational presentations, making Emirati culture accessible and engaging for young learners.
Zaina holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management from the University of Sharjah and a certification in Cultural Intelligence, enhancing her ability to connect with diverse audiences. Her experience managing teams and events has deepened her expertise in the centre’s operations.
In her free time, Zaina enjoys shopping, spending time with friends and family, and attending workshops that inspire her continuous learning and growth.
Reem Al Hussaini
Senior Business Development Executive & Cultural Presenter
Reem Al Hussaini began her journey with SMCCU as a volunteer in 2012 and officially joined the team in 2016, driven by a passion for sharing Emirati culture and heritage. As Senior Business Development Executive, she plays a key role in enhancing the centre's outreach and partnerships, promoting cross-cultural understanding at national and international events.
Reem served on the UAE Pavilion protocol team at Expo 2020 Dubai, training over 150 protocol officers and representing the pavilion in the media. She also showcased her expertise at Expo 2023 Doha as a speaker and training manager, highlighting her skills in cultural exchange and diplomacy.
Fluent in Arabic and English, with intermediate Turkish and basic German, Reem connects with diverse audiences. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems with a minor in Marketing from the University of Sharjah, alongside certifications in Cultural Intelligence, ICDL, and as a Certified Business Professional (CBP).
Outside of work, Reem enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and participating in workshops to expand her knowledge.
Reem served on the UAE Pavilion protocol team at Expo 2020 Dubai, training over 150 protocol officers and representing the pavilion in the media. She also showcased her expertise at Expo 2023 Doha as a speaker and training manager, highlighting her skills in cultural exchange and diplomacy.
Fluent in Arabic and English, with intermediate Turkish and basic German, Reem connects with diverse audiences. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems with a minor in Marketing from the University of Sharjah, alongside certifications in Cultural Intelligence, ICDL, and as a Certified Business Professional (CBP).
Outside of work, Reem enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and participating in workshops to expand her knowledge.
Mohammed Al Jasmi
Cultural Presenter
Mohammed Al Jasmi joined SMCCU in 2020 as Cultural Presenter, embracing the responsibility of promoting cultural understanding and representing Emiratis with pride.
With a background in Healthcare Administration from Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University, Mohammed is also a dedicated volunteer. Since 2016, he has contributed to various causes, including managing a volunteer team for the 2019 Special Olympics. He also co-founded the charitable Asareer campaign.
Mohammed loves sharing stories about the UAE’s history, from its visionary founders to the lives of its people centuries ago. His passion for culture and history extends to social media, where he creates engaging content that highlights the rich Emirati heritage in an accessible and entertaining way.
With a background in Healthcare Administration from Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University, Mohammed is also a dedicated volunteer. Since 2016, he has contributed to various causes, including managing a volunteer team for the 2019 Special Olympics. He also co-founded the charitable Asareer campaign.
Mohammed loves sharing stories about the UAE’s history, from its visionary founders to the lives of its people centuries ago. His passion for culture and history extends to social media, where he creates engaging content that highlights the rich Emirati heritage in an accessible and entertaining way.
Ruqaya Al Hamiri
Cultural Presenter
Ruqaya Al Hamiri joined the SMCCU in 2018 as Cultural Presenter. She shares her personal experiences as a traditional Emirati woman, providing deep insights into the UAE’s culture and heritage. Ruqaya’s role enables her to connect with diverse audiences and promote cross-cultural understanding.
A graduate of Zayed University with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies, Ruqaya specialized in sociology, anthropology, history, and culture, gaining a broad knowledge of cultural dynamics. Her studies, coupled with her train-the-trainer certification in the Cultural Intelligence program, have equipped her with strong communication and public speaking skills, enhancing her ability to engage with a variety of audiences.
In addition to her work at SMCCU, Ruqaya is actively involved in community initiatives aimed at empowering women and raising cultural awareness. Through her participation in diverse programs, she has developed adaptability and built connections across cultures and generations.
Ruqaya’s sessions are distinguished by her unique ability to weave her family’s history in Dubai’s historic Shindagha neighborhood into her storytelling. This personal perspective adds depth to her presentations, offering an authentic view of the city’s cultural evolution. Her passion for exploring different cultures and religions further enriches her sessions, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for participants.
A graduate of Zayed University with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies, Ruqaya specialized in sociology, anthropology, history, and culture, gaining a broad knowledge of cultural dynamics. Her studies, coupled with her train-the-trainer certification in the Cultural Intelligence program, have equipped her with strong communication and public speaking skills, enhancing her ability to engage with a variety of audiences.
In addition to her work at SMCCU, Ruqaya is actively involved in community initiatives aimed at empowering women and raising cultural awareness. Through her participation in diverse programs, she has developed adaptability and built connections across cultures and generations.
Ruqaya’s sessions are distinguished by her unique ability to weave her family’s history in Dubai’s historic Shindagha neighborhood into her storytelling. This personal perspective adds depth to her presentations, offering an authentic view of the city’s cultural evolution. Her passion for exploring different cultures and religions further enriches her sessions, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for participants.
Hamad Al Shezawi
Cultural Presenter
Hamad Al Shezawi joined SMCCU in 2020 as Cultural Presenter, where he shares insights from his traditional upbringing and deep connection to Emirati culture. Holding a degree in Civil Engineering, Hamad continuously seeks to expand his knowledge through various courses, integrating his learnings into his cultural programs.
A dedicated volunteer, Hamad supported Dubai Ambulance and Dubai Healthcare for three months during the COVID-19 pandemic and served as a team leader at Expo 2020. He was also honored to represent SMCCU in the Youth Pavilion at Expo 2020, featuring in a video exhibition that highlighted young Emiratis.
In his spare time, Hamad enjoys playing chess, hiking, and horse riding.
A dedicated volunteer, Hamad supported Dubai Ambulance and Dubai Healthcare for three months during the COVID-19 pandemic and served as a team leader at Expo 2020. He was also honored to represent SMCCU in the Youth Pavilion at Expo 2020, featuring in a video exhibition that highlighted young Emiratis.
In his spare time, Hamad enjoys playing chess, hiking, and horse riding.