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Element Name
Sago
Other Names
Saku
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

Sago

Sago is a traditional popular sweet. The name refers to an imported type of small white grain used to prepare the dessert of the same name. The grains become translucent after cooking. Sago is prepared by melting sugar over heat until it resembles dibs (date syrup), then adding the thoroughly washed grains together with a small amount of ghee. The mixture is left on the heat until the grains soften and form a sticky, gelatinous consistency. The dessert takes on a dark brown colour from the saffron and caramelized sugar and is served on different occasions and at various times, particularly during Ramadan.

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

Continuity and Intergenerational Transmission: The element is passed from one generation to the next, either orally through stories, songs, and narratives, or practically through training and hands-on practice. This living process ensures the element’s survival and development over time, while maintaining its connection to its cultural roots.

03

Preserving the Element within the Living Community Context: The element derives its value from being actively practiced in people’s daily lives or within their rituals and social occasions. Preserving the element does not mean freezing it in time, but rather supporting it to continue in its original environment, while respecting its natural evolution within the community context.

04

“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.

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