TITLE:
Transforming Traditions: Youth and the Digital Evolution of the Emirati Majlis
AUTHORS:
Asma Al Shaibah
KEYWORDS:
Emirati Culture, Traditional Majlis Engagement, Digital Majlis Adaptation, Cultural Continuity, Digital Transformation, Youth Engagement
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.12 No.9,
September
24,
2024
ABSTRACT: This paper investigates the cultural significance and evolving dynamics of the Majlis in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), focusing on both traditional and digital manifestations of this pivotal social institution. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates quantitative data from 138 respondents collected via an online Survey Monkey survey with qualitative insights from interviews published in local newspapers. The primary purpose of this study is to explore how different demographic segments—particularly Emirati youth— engage with and perceive the Majlis amidst the rising prevalence of digital platforms. The findings reveal significant generational, gender-based, and geographic variations in engagement and attitudes toward Majlis culture. While traditional Majlis continue to play a crucial role in fostering community ties and cultural preservation, there is a notable shift among younger demographics towards digital Majalis. Approximately 68% of survey participants express openness to future engagement with digital Majlis, highlighting its potential to complement traditional forms in terms of accessibility and convenience. However, 29% of participants express significant reservations, noting that digital platforms cannot replicate physical gatherings’ cultural depth and interpersonal dynamics. These findings underscore a complex interplay between maintaining cultural heritage and embracing technological advancements. This paper contributes to understanding how traditional cultural practices adapt to modernity, offering insights into the potential for digital platforms to enhance or transform traditional cultural engagements. The study’s mixed-methods approach exemplifies the value of integrating diverse data sources to achieve a more nuanced understanding of social phenomena.