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Networking day

We’re excited to announce that Networking Day returns for the Dubai Future Forum 2025 Edition on 17 November. Set in the heart of Old Dubai – between the winding alleys of Al Fahidi and along the historic banks of Dubai Creek – Networking Day offers a unique opportunity to step back from the rush of daily life. It’s an invitation to slow down, connect meaningfully, and immerse yourself in the living heritage of the UAE. Guests can look forward to guided cultural explorations, intimate and unhurried conversations, and the warmth of authentic Emirati hospitality. This day sets the tone for the Forum itself, reminding us that before looking ahead to the future, we must also ground ourselves in the histories, stories, and connections that shape us today.
In collaboration with:
A Day of Emirati Heritage: Where Tradition Meets Connection

Breakfast & Arabic Coffee Etiquette in a Traditional Emirati Home

Guests will enjoy an authentic Emirati breakfast in a traditional setting, followed by a cultural Q&A session. The tour includes exploring the Al Fahidi District & Fort, the Dubai Museum (from the outside), a tolerance walk around the Dubai Grand Mosque and Shiva Hindu Temple, along with visits to the Dagger House, Coffee Museum, spice and gold souqs, and a traditional Abra ride across Dubai Creek. Refreshments include fresh juices from Dubai’s oldest juice store.
  • Vegetarian option available
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Morning Tour of Old Dubai: A Journey Through Time

The walking tour in Old Dubai’s Al Fahidi district includes visits to historic Emirati homes, wind towers, Al Fahidi Fort, and Dubai Museum (from the outside). Guests will enjoy Arabic coffee at the Coffee Museum, explore the Dagger House, take a tolerance walk around the Dubai Grand Mosque and Shiva Hindu Temple, ride across the Dubai Creek in a traditional Abra, and visit the spice and gold souqs. Refreshments include fresh juices from Dubai’s oldest juice store.
REGISTER NOW

Recommendations to have:

  • Sunblock
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Water
  • Hat
  • Cash

Lunch & Arabic Coffee Etiquette in a Traditional Emirati Home

Guests will enjoy lunch in a traditional majlis setting, where they will have the opportunity to try a variety of local dishes and learn Emirati dining etiquette. The experience includes a cultural Q&A session, offering insights into local traditions and an open discussion on Emirati culture.
  • Vegetarian option available
REGISTER NOW

Afternoon Tour of Old Dubai: A Journey Through Time

The walking tour in Old Dubai’s Al Fahidi district includes visits to historic Emirati homes, wind towers, Al Fahidi Fort, and Dubai Museum (from the outside). Guests will enjoy Arabic coffee at the Coffee Museum, explore the Dagger House, take a tolerance walk around the Dubai Grand Mosque and Shiva Hindu Temple, ride across the Dubai Creek in a traditional Abra, and visit the spice and gold souqs. Refreshments include fresh juices from Dubai’s oldest juice store.
REGISTER NOW

Recommendations to have:

  • Sunblock
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Water
  • Hat
  • Cash

Boat Tour on the Dubai Creek

The one-hour boat tour on a traditional Abra explores Dubai Creek’s pivotal role in the city’s transformation. Narrated by Emirati storytellers, guests will learn about key historical sites, Dubai Creek’s dredging project, and its influence on business, trade, traditional occupations, and the city’s first bank and hotel.
REGISTER NOW

Recommendations to have:

  • Sunblock
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Water
  • Hat
  • Cash

The Afaneen Collective Experience

Emirati Performances: Razfa & Yoolah

Oud Music Performance

Emirati Handicrafts Corner

Henna Station

Arabic Calligraphy

The Afaneen Collective is a vibrant neighbourhood of homegrown brands offering a contemporary take on UAE traditions. Mirzam Chocolate and Tamashee are two such brands that guests will have the opportunity to visit. The experience will also feature activities such as live henna application, oud performances, and an Emirati handicrafts station.
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Emirati Dinner and Experience

This is a must-attend event for everyone to come together to wrap up the day and get excited for the two days that will follow. The carefully curated dinner menu will offer a true taste of the local cuisine, showcasing the rich maritime traditions of the region. Guests will also be invited to participate in a traditional Emirati performance, with guidance from our performers group.
  • Vegetarian option available
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Emirati Cultural Experience with Lunch

Join us at the SMCCU’s traditional windtower house in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, where cultural meals turn into shared stories over delicious local dishes. You’ll also get to wander through the winding alleys of Al Fahidi on a guided cultural tour, soaking in the history and heritage that make this part of Dubai so special. It’s an experience that blends food, conversation, and culture
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*By Invitation Only

Participants are responsible to make their own way to selected activities. Please check out our travel page for local transport recommendations. These experiences have been curated specifically for Dubai Future Forum participants and as such are only valid for 17 November. Once an experience has been paid, we are unable to offer any refunds or exchange vouchers.