'Is it true that you're a king? UAE Youth Ambassador disproves misconceptions at the Expo 2025 in Japan - video inside'
Emirati Youth Ambassador Debunks Stereotypes at Expo 2025 Osaka
Moosa Al Zaabi, the Emirati Youth Ambassador at the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, is bridging cultural gaps and debunking stereotypes about the UAE. As the first point of contact for visitors, Al Zaabi serves as a cultural guide, explaining the significance of traditional Emirati attire and items, such as the khanjar and ghutra.
During his interactions with visitors, Al Zaabi often encounters questions about his traditional attire, with many asking if he is royalty due to his appearance. He clarifies that the traditional dress and accessories are not symbols of royalty but represent cultural fashion and identity.
One common misconception is about the khanjar, a ceremonial dagger worn by Al Zaabi, which is often mistaken for a weapon. Al Zaabi takes this opportunity to explain that the khanjar is not used for fighting.
Another item that often sparks curiosity is the ghutra, the traditional Emirati headgear secured by a black cord, known as the agal. Visitors are often amazed to learn about the national dress and are even curious about trying on the agal. However, Al Zaabi emphasizes that the ghutra is loose, airy, and practical for summer, contrary to the common belief that it is heavy and uncomfortable in the heat.
Al Zaabi also addresses misconceptions about the UAE, such as it being only Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with other emirates being independent countries with their own currency or language. He clarifies that the UAE is a federation of seven emirates, each with its unique culture and traditions.
In his role, Al Zaabi has learned the importance of choosing words carefully to ensure cultural clarity. He recalls an instance where a child mistook dugongs for cows, highlighting the need for precise explanations.
Al Zaabi's dedication to sharing the UAE's culture, history, and traditions extends beyond Expo 2025. He teaches Japanese youth ambassadors Arabic, and they teach him new phrases in Japanese. A memorable moment for Al Zaabi was when a Japanese colleague sang an Arabic lullaby, showcasing the cross-cultural exchange at the Expo.
[1] Source: Expo 2025 Osaka, UAE Pavilion press release [2] Source: Gulf News, "UAE Youth Ambassador Moosa Al Zaabi at Expo 2025 Osaka"
- At Expo 2025 Osaka, Moosa Al Zaabi, the Emirati Youth Ambassador, is demonstrating that the UAE's traditional attire like the khanjar and ghutra are more about culture and identity than symbols of royalty.
- Al Zaabi clarifies that the khanjar is not a weapon but a ceremonial dagger, debunking a common stereotype.
- In addition, the ghutra, the traditional Emirati headgear, contrary to the common belief, is loose, airy, and practical for the summer, not heavy and uncomfortable in the heat.
- Beyond Expo 2025, Al Zaabi teaches Japanese youth ambassadors Arabic, promoting cross-cultural exchange and breaking down stereotypes.
- Traditional Emirati fashion and lifestyle, including the national dress, history, and languages of the seven emirates, are essential parts of understanding the UAE, as Al Zaabi demonstrates during his interactions at the UAE Pavilion.
