A phenomenological study of place attachment to food spaces: Expatriates and eateries in Dubai

The preservation of native food habits among Indian expatriates in Al Karama, Dubai, reflects a deep sense of place attachment, blending cultural continuity and spatiality in the context of migration. This study investigates how expatriates' place attachment from place of origin is expressed and experienced in place of residence, through exploring the case of Indian eateries in Al Karama fostering connections to expatriates' place of origin; and expanding to other expatriates' experiences and expressions around food spaces. By employing a phenomenological qualitative approach, including interviews with eatery visitors (50 visitors) and eatery owners (50 owners), photographic documentation, observations, and spatial analysis, conducted from 2022 to 2023, this research explores Indian expatriates' lived experiences and expressions of ‘home’, i.e., their place of origin, in their current place of residence, through the Indian eateries in Al Karama and examines whether and how these eateries built place attachment to place of origin or as an attempt to recreate such attachment in the place of residence. The findings reveal that Indian eateries function as practical expressions of place attachment, enabling Indian expatriates to experience cultural ties and emotional connection to their place of origin. The eateries are found to be significant places that offer more than just Indian food, functioning as places of identity, belonging, and social interaction for the Indian expatriate community living in Dubai through providing multitude experiences. Focusing on Indian expatriates and the Al Karama neighborhood, the findings highlight key dynamics of place attachment and spatial behavior trends that contribute to a broader understanding of place attachment among the Indian expatriate community in Dubai. Al Karama being a representative case of place attachment specific to Indian expatriates in Dubai, other areas such as Al Satwa, Al Rigga and Deira showcases examples of place attachment expression through food spaces among other experiences of shopping and cultural gatherings.