Ask Ali: Do Emiratis take up sport during the summer and are there any science-related Islamic museums in the UAE?

In this week's Ask Ali we learn whether Emiratis participiate in sport during the summer hear and if so, where and whether they are any science-related Islamic museums in the UAE.

Dear Ali: It seems not many Emiratis take part in sports here, or maybe sport is not a big thing in this culture. I understand it could be because of the heat, but do Emiratis do any sport during the summer, and if so, where? TF, Abu Dhabi

Dear TF: Back in the day, the lifestyle of people in this region was different. They were accustomed to physical labour and used to walk a lot more than they do now. There was probably no need to do sports, hence the culture of sports didn't get rooted deeply enough.

Everything used to be done without technology; riding a horse/camel or walking long distances from one place to another were the only available forms of transportation.

Today, we all enjoy the comforts of a developed country. We drive cars from the door of our house to the door of our workplace.

Education, however, has helped us to recognise the need for sport and an active lifestyle, and our Government is taking a greater interest in the health of all generations, from children to the elderly. Now, it’s also considered prestigious to take part in sport.

Our leaders set examples when they visit, for example, Yas Marina Circuit for an evening bicycle ride or jog, or by visiting the same sports complexes used by the public. If you follow any of the UAE leaders on social media, you will see they’re sporting and active. Even our religion teaches us to appreciate a healthy lifestyle.

Almost every park and big sporting complex has a running track where people come to exercise. Some tracks are indoor and others outdoor. Indoor facilities are well air-conditioned, which helps those who can’t carry on exercising outdoors in the heat.

Generally speaking, Emiratis and expats living in the UAE have a positive relationship with sport. There are many local sporting clubs that promote all kinds of activities, such as air and water sports, equestrian, cycling, martial arts, beach and even ice sports – there are several ice-skating rinks across the Emirates, and even a skiing facility in Dubai. Yes, you can play in the snow in the UAE, even in the summer.

The only question left to be answered is how come we still have such a large number of unhealthy people here? Like many societies, the luxury lifestyle affects many people, but just because you have luxuries, it doesn’t mean you should get lazy. It should be a reason to be healthier and more active, to enjoy life to the fullest.

Dear Ali: Are there any science-related Islamic museums in the UAE? JR, Ajman

Dear JR: The only major museum on Islam and Islamic inventions and science here is in Sharjah. The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is located near the creek in Sharjah at the old Souq Al Majra, which has been modified to accommodate this lovely museum.

It holds thousands of rare and important Islamic artefacts, and will take you on an awe-inspiring journey to learn about the various aspects of Islamic faith, science, culture and its discoveries. It’s definitely going to get you admiring the timeless achievements of Islamic civilisation and its universality.

It’s a place I recommend all the time to people visiting the beautiful, historical, culture-rich emirate of Sharjah.

To learn more about the museums in Sharjah, visit www.sharjahmuseums.ae.

Ali Al Saloom is a cultural adviser and public speaker from the UAE. Follow @AskAli on Twitter, and visit www.ask-ali.com to ask him a question.