Majlis in UAE culture 

The Majlis is one of the cornerstones of Emirati civilization.At a later stage, traditional Arab 'Tekay' (Arabic cushions) was introduced with a long rectangular day mattress that covers the corners of Majlis that Emiratis called 'Doshak', as guests could sit comfortably for hours.Despite economic development and globalization, the design of the Majlis has remained much the same with a few modern twists that reflect the fusion between the Arab and Western worlds.Although Majlis is an essential feature of every household, the doshas are sometimes placed in the middle of the Majlis for the sole use of VIPs and the head of the family.In a tradition that spans centuries, most homes in the Gulf have a Majlis, where the head of the family hosts guests.The mats were eventually replaced by handmade carpets made from camel, sheep, or goat wool that Bedouin ladies made.Traditionally it was one of the major 
facets of social life in the Gulf countries.In the UAE, the Majlis was originally a tent set aside for social gatherings.Majlis or Diwania is limited to men only as women are strictly prohibited to enter, due to religious and social rules.It's a place for guests to chat about the daily issues of life, religious topics, and reminisce over Arabic tea and coffee.For decades, friends, neighbors, and families would gather in a Majlis during sunset.This then became a room with a floor covered with palm fronds.In the middle of a Majlis, the head of the family would sit, inviting guests to join him and they would form a large circle.