Dubai's old quarter is a place full of culture and tradition.
Here you'll find plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
In this article, I tell you about the things to see and do in old Dubai.
Old Dubai: article summary
Discover old Dubai
In 1959, Dubai began to become a major commercial hub, millions of dollars being loaned to Sheik Rashid to renovate the town creek to accommodate large ships.
What's more, with the discovery of oil in the Gulf, the economy recovered and boosted the city's development. Dubai became a major tourist destination and has grown rapidly.
Dubai was originally a fishing village, and many have nostalgic memories of those days. Many people, locals and visitors alike, are particularly keen on the best things to do in Old Dubai to get an idea of what life was like before the city's rapid growth began.
Travel in Abra at Dubai Creek
Dubai Creek is now a major tourist attraction.
For a reasonable price, you can board one of the traditional Abras.
One of the most popular routes, for example, from Al Sabkha Abra station to Dubai Old Souk Abra station. Each Abra holds around 20 passengers and each trip takes just 5 minutes.
You can also rent your own Abra and explore the river, where you'll be able to admire some of Dubai's traditional houses.
Visit the Dubai Museum
Anyone who enjoys immersing themselves in the history of the United Arab Emirates should take the time to visit the Dubai Museum. You will find it near the Bastakiya district. It occupies Fort Al Fahidi, the oldest building in Dubai.
This place will take you back in time. You'll find plenty to amuse you and enhance your knowledge of Dubai in the different wings of the museum. You can literally take a trip back in time contemplating traditional boat models.
As a new visitor to the city, a visit to the museum is a must when traveling to Dubai. Indeed, what you see in the museum can help you understand how the city developed.
Explore the historic district of Al Fahidi
The historic district of Al Fahidi is fabulous if you want to see what life was like in old Dubai. Visiting the neighborhood is one of the best things you can do. You'll still see the traditional houses and narrow streets. However, some parts have undergone renovation so that tourists in wheelchairs can also get around.
Along Dubai Creek, tourists are delighted to see that this old quarter has retained much of its original infrastructure and that life is as it was then. As you wander through the narrow streets and alleys, you'll come across art galleries, museums and old houses to explore.
The neighborhood always offers exciting events, and the Sikka Art Fair is one of them. This is an annual arts and cultural festival in Dubai and features numerous exhibitions, concerts, workshops and activities for the whole family.
Buying spices in the Souk
You don't even need to be a cook to know that spices are important elements of great cuisine, offering a subtle taste and aroma to all kinds of dishes. Once in Dubai, you'll need to visit the spice souk.
You'll find cinnamon black pepper, cloves, paprika curry powder, vanilla, turmeric, ginger, mustard and much more. And that's not all, as you'll find other items you never imagined you'd find. Dried cucumbers, sumac, ras-el-hanout, saffron, preserved lemons, teas, henna kits, basmati rice, dried fruits, everything is here to give you a taste of the sweet life.
All the gold you can buy at the Gold Souk
Visiting the souks is surely one of the best things to do in old Dubai. These souks are the most fascinating places on any visitor's itinerary, and they're open 7 days a week.
Visit Gold souk is made up of various covered aisles, and although gold ornaments and accessories are the main attraction, there are other fashion items too.
The Gold Souk is a huge, sprawling bazaar filled with gold, diamonds and other precious stones. The market has grown considerably over the years, but it still retains its old-fashioned atmosphere and charm. At the Gold Souk, gold can be traded. What a bargain!
Dubai Heritage Village
Tourists from all walks of life love to take a trip back in time, as it evokes a more romantic, simple and enchanting way of life. Visit Dubai Heritage Village in the historic Al Shindagha district offers this experience. It gives you a glimpse of traditional Dubai living with old houses and buildings.
You may hear it referred to as Hatta Village. But, whatever you call it, it's a place not to be missed.
There are many attractions in Dubai. However, you can discover many things and travel to a whole new world. strolling the aisles of the old Dubai.
What to do in Dubai in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Dubai guide.
It's free and in PDF format.
All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.
EDIT: you can't enter your email?
Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special Dubai guide!
Leave a Reply