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Element Name
Umm Al Duwais
Other Names
Umm Duwais, Umm Das, Umm Dasin
Practice Environment
Coast, Desert
Practice Location
All Emirates of the UAE
Scope of Practice
All segments of society
Heritage Domain/ Category
Folk Literature
Element Type/ Subcategory
Folk Tales (Khararif)
Current Status
Living heritage

Umm Al Duwais

Umm Al Duwais is one of the best-known mythical characters in Emirati heritage. She is described as an exceptionally beautiful woman surrounded by the scent of perfumes and incense, while concealing a demonic nature behind her attractive features. In some accounts she has a donkey’s leg and a sickle; in others, both of her hands are sickles. She appears to seduce men who succumb to her beauty, ultimately leading them to death. She became associated with divine punishment for temptation and vice and served as a warning against moral deviation. At its core, the tale represents ideas of chastity and purity and just punishment for those who follow uncontrolled desire.

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.

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