Al Milas

Element Name

Al Milas

Practice Environment

All environments

Practice Location

All Emirates of the UAE

Scope of Practice

All segments of society

Heritage Domain/ Category

Customs, Traditions and Social Etiquette

Element Type/ Subcategory

Traditions and Etiquette of Food and Hospitality

Current Status

Living heritage

The Milas is a traditional utensil used for stirring food, particularly rice while cooking, and for scooping and serving food once cooked. It was one of the basic cooking tools in Emirati homes. Early versions were made from wooden sticks, later from copper with wooden handles, and subsequently from aluminium for easier use and greater durability. Milas utensils came in different sizes depending on need, including medium-sized versions for everyday cooking and large versions for large pots used at weddings and other occasions. The head is usually round and perforated to help drain liquids while stirring or serving.

Criteria Applicable to Nominate Element

01

Presence in Collective Memory and Intergenerational Cohesion: A cultural element is considered deeply rooted when it is held in the collective memory of the community and forms part of their daily experiences, occasions, and social relationships. It also contributes to strengthening the bonds of interaction between different generations, as it is transmitted from elders to younger members, providing a space for celebration and communal participation, thereby creating a sense of belonging and continuity.

02

Geographical or Cultural Specificity: The element is characterized by its association with a specific geographic area or cultural group within the country, giving it a unique identity that distinguishes it from other practices. This element represents part of the social and cultural history of the community, enhancing its value as a distinctive component of local or national identity.

03

“Cultural diversity” refers to the variety of forms of cultural expression within a single society, such as the presence of different heritage practices across the Emirates, whether rooted in Bedouin, urban, or maritime traditions. This diversity is a source of strength and richness, and is celebrated within the country’s vision of cultural pluralism.

04

Local Artistic or Technical Creativity: The element embodies creativity that originated from the local environment, whether in the materials used, methods of performance, or design patterns. This creativity may have developed collectively, reflecting how people interact with their surroundings and respond to their needs in an innovative way that expresses collective intelligence.