Qasr Al Hosn Summer Program
Qasr Al Hosn Summer Program
The Qasr Al Hosn Summer Program introduces children to Al Sana’a – the traditional Emirati code of manners, etiquette, and values. Deeply rooted in the UAE’s cultural heritage, Al Sana’a emphasizes respect, hospitality, generosity, humility, and honor in everyday behavior. Through storytelling, hands-on activities, and interactive experiences, participants will learn how to welcome guests, serve Emirati gahwa, show respect to elders, and uphold dignity in social interactions.
This unique cultural immersion fosters a deep connection to Emirati heritage and promotes the values that continue to shape society in the UAE today.
Age Group: 7 – 14 years old
Pricing:
- 🎟️ 6-Day Pass: AED 550
- 🎟️ 1-Day Pass: AED 95
Weekly Schedule
Week |
Date |
Daily Brief |
Week 1 |
Tuesday, July 8 |
Day 1: What is Al Sanaa’?
This orientation session marked the beginning of the Al Sanaa programme and includes both participants and their parents or guardians. The session introduces the core values of Al Sanaa, the traditional code of conduct rooted in Emirati culture, and outlines the programme's objectives and agenda.
Participants will take part in a themed tour of Qasr Al Hosn highlighting elements of Al Sanaa, followed by a workshop discussing what it means and how to apply it in daily life.
Interactive activities will allow participants to engage in role-play scenarios focused on respect and politeness, including how to welcome guests, initiate conversations, and observe proper Majlis etiquette.
|
Week 1 |
Thursday, July 10 |
Day 2: Honoring Guests – Al Sanaa’ Through Food
This session introduces participants to values of Al Sanaa’ through the theme of Emirati hospitality. Inspired by Sheikha Salama bint Butti, whose Majlis was known for gathering the women of the palace for daily fuwala, it focuses on the customs and etiquette of traditional Emirati fuwala and the values of generosity, respect, and connection expressed through this ritual.
The session also includes a hands-on workshop with École Ducasse, where participants will prepare a typical Emirati dish to take home. This activity reflects the Emirati tradition of never visiting family or friends empty-handed—a key value of Al Sanaa’ that highlights generosity and thoughtful giving.
|
Week 2 |
Tuesday, July 15 |
Day 3: The Etiquette of Gahwa – Practicing Al Sanaa’ through Emirati Coffee
This session offers participants an immersive experience into the values of Al Sanaa’ through the tradition of Emirati Gahwa. Drawing inspiration from Sheikh Shakhbut’s Majlis, where Gahwa was always served as a symbol of hospitality, the session emphasizes the importance of preserving this practice as part of our intangible cultural heritage (ICH).
Led by expert Gahwa makers, participants will learn the full process of preparing traditional Arabic coffee—from selecting ingredients to mastering brewing techniques and understanding the cultural significance of the tools used. Seated in a Majlis setting, they will be guided through the proper etiquette of serving Gahwa, including offering it to elders first, using the right hand, and engaging in respectful verbal exchange between host and guest.
After the demonstration, participants will prepare and serve Gahwa themselves under supervision. Each participant will take home the Gahwa they prepared to share with their families, encouraging the continuation of this meaningful tradition in their own homes.
|
Week 2 |
Thursday, July 17 |
Day 4: Practicing Tawjeb – Al Sanaa’ in Visiting the Elderly
This session introduces participants to Tawjeb, a core Emirati value rooted in respect, compassion, and social responsibility. Participants will learn the etiquette of visiting the elderly—including appropriate greetings, the importance of bringing a small gift—and will be introduced to proper verbal phrases and conversational cues traditionally used when engaging with elders.
The session concludes with a supervised visit to the Family Development Foundation’s elderly care center, where participants will apply what they’ve learned in a real-life setting, reinforcing the cultural importance of kindness, dignity, and respectful social conduct.
|
Week 3 |
Tuesday, July 22 |
Day 5: Al Sanaa in Celebration – Dress, Dance, and Etiquette
This session explores the values of Al Sanaa’ through the customs and protocols observed during Emirati celebrations. Qasr Al Hosn historically hosted royal weddings and Eid celebrations, and this session will draw on those stories.
Participants will learn proper Sanaa’ etiquette for celebrations—including verbal greetings, Majlis behavior, and social customs during weddings and Eid—and explore traditional attire for men and women, their names, cultural significance, and when each is worn.
They will also engage in cultural performances: Al Ayalah and Yoola for boys, and Na’ashat for girls, offering a hands-on, expressive understanding of heritage and the values rooted in Emirati celebration.
|
Week 3 |
Thursday, July 24 |
Day 6: Al Fazaa – The Honor of Helping Others
This session introduces participants to Al Fazaa, a core Emirati value centered on selflessly offering help to those in need. Participants will learn its meaning and significance in Emirati culture—where stepping in to support others regardless of personal circumstance is seen as a duty of honor and solidarity—drawing inspiration from Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s legacy of compassion and responsibility.
As part of the session, participants will engage in interactive exercises with the elderly that simulate real-life scenarios, allowing them to practice what it means to “yefzaa,” whether through physical assistance, emotional support, or community action.
The program concludes with a recap of the full three-week journey, followed by a farewell ceremony where participants will receive certificates and commemorative gifts in recognition of their learning and participation.
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