Forget Dubai’s glittering towers, pristine reputation and rich persona – the city’s anchor is far more humbling and brimming with charm and culture.
Dubai is widely known as a modern metropolis, defined by flashy skyscrapers and big business as well as world-class shopping and entertainment. The second largest emirate in the UAE, Dubai prides itself on offering the very best of whatever you are looking for. That said, there is an old-world charm that has remained in the oldest neighbourhood in the city, Bur Dubai.
Before Dubai became the mega-modern city it is today, the area to the west of Dubai Creek (also known as Khor Dubai, a natural saltwater inlet that divides the city) was the site of the city’s original settlement, Bur Dubai. Over time, the settlement naturally expanded inland, with the creek remaining Bur Dubai’s anchor and enabling Dubai’s growth as a trading hub.
Despite being densely packed with residential and commercial areas, Bur Dubai is one of the most walkable areas in the city. And there is plenty to marvel at as you stroll through the streets. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, commonly referred to as Al Bastakiya, is the historic centre of Dubai. The area has undergone immense restoration work in recent years to bring the district’s avenues, lanes and buildings to their former glory. Now the oldest standing residential area of Dubai, the Bastakiya quarter was first established by rich textile and pearl merchants from Iran.
Walking through the area today will transport you back to that old world era of tightly wound alleys and ancient wind towers channeling air through the nearby buildings. Here, you’ll also find the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, which regularly hosts tours and events designed to promote cultural and historical awareness for tourists.
Bastakiya is also a huge art hub, home to both the XVA comptemorary art gallery and Dubai’s oldest art space, Majlis Gallery. After taking in the wonderful work of Arab artists, indulge in fine date cakes and fresh mint juice in a nearby cafe.
If you’re interested in shopping, the Textile Souk is where you will find a range of ready-to-wear outfits from local designers as well as fine fabrics. Alternatively, the Meena Bazaar (also known as Dubai’s “Little India”) is a bustling shopping hub where you can find everything from gold jewellery to luxe silk sarees to spices.
Finally, if you’re in Bur Dubai, you’d be remiss not to take an abra (traditional wooden boat) across the creek to Deira to see what the east side of the creek has to offer.
