Dubai is known for its luxurious skyscrapers and those enormous malls filled with extravagances and exotic products. But behind the expensive Dubai, there are also other hidden corners that are rarely explored by tourists, yet they can offer a journey into the emirate’s deepest history.
To take a trip into Dubai’s past, it is essential to visit Al Bastakiya, an old neighborhood located in the now-famous Dubai Creek, where buildings are lower, and houses retain their original essence: their adobe walls and simpler windows make this place an ideal and unique enclave to discover another side of the magnificent city.
What Al Bastakiya is like, an essential part of Dubai’s past
Most of Al Bastakiya’s structures were built in 1891, yet its old essence remains intact. This magical neighborhood perfectly recreates the beginnings of the emirate’s prosperous history, now home to art galleries, cafés, and special spots to explore. This area originally developed as a fishing and trading village, but as industrialization and infrastructure investments progressed, it was completely abandoned.
Despite its desolation, tourism played a crucial role in this neighborhood, as some projects were dedicated to its reconstruction, turning it into what is now considered the oldest part of the city and the most picturesque place to visit for those looking to escape the city’s luxury and bustle. Thus, its homes and buildings were restored while trying to maintain the classic architectural style. Thanks to this effort, travelers can get closer to the history of one of the world’s most important and wealthiest cities.
What you can discover in Dubai’s oldest neighborhood
Al Bastakiya boasts a series of significant sites in Dubai where visitors can learn more about its fascinating history. Travel experts highlight the Dubai Museum, Jumeirah Mosque, and Bastakiya Cultural Center as top attractions. However, wandering through its streets and visiting its tea houses is also part of its charm, where visitors can taste the best tea blends as well as the most exquisite pastries.
Away from the culinary experience, the Dubai Museum is a must-visit when exploring this neighborhood. It offers insight into Dubai’s classical history. This building is set within a large wall built in 1787 to protect the city from invading troops: the Al Fahidi Fort, which is considered the oldest building in Dubai.
The two must-visit spots in Al Bastakiya, Dubai
In addition to the Dubai Museum, tourism specialists highlight Jumeirah Mosque and the Bastakiya Cultural Center as must-visit sites when exploring this traditional neighborhood. The mentioned temple is one of the most renowned in the city and the first that can be visited by people who do not practice Islam. It also features stunning architecture, making it highly attractive to all travelers who visit.
To continue exploring this hidden gem of Dubai, visitors can also discover the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, an ideal space to learn about Emirati history up close. This site offers a variety of engaging activities for tourists and also organizes meals and diverse gatherings to share with visitors everything related to Dubai’s culture and traditions. It is a fundamental cultural integration space within the enclave.
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