Dubai the city of gold is linked with traveling skyscrapers, luxurious malls as well as ultra-modern architecture. Beyond the glamor of the modern city, there lies the soul-Old Dubai. Old Dubai offers the glimpse of history and rich heritage that shape the city into modernity. Exploring the old side of Dubai is like stepping back in time where historical buildings, cultural experience as well as traditional markets await. In this blog, we’ll take you through the best of old Dubai covering its history, top things to do as well as some of the must visit hotels, restaurants and beaches.
History of Old Dubai
Old Dubai is also famous as a historical district that includes Deira Dubai, Bur Dubai and Al Fahidi district. Once it was a small fishing village on the edge of Arabian Gulf. In the 19th Century, the city was famous for its fishing industries and pearl diving. The Al Fahidi historical neighborhood is one of the oldest residential areas that was established in the late 19th century. It shows traditional Arabian culture with wind towers and courtyard houses.
In the early 20th century, the strategic location of Dubai led to the growth and prosperity. After establishment of Dubai Chamber of Commerce in 1965, the creek continued as a hub for dhow cruising and raised the important export to East Africa, Iran and India.
After the discovery of oil in 1960, it was a turning point in Dubai history. The revenue from export leads to rapid development of the city and transforms it into a global metropolis. Despite the global transformation, old Dubai has retained the historical significance for future generations.
Why is Old Dubai famous?
Old Dubai is famous for its cultural heritage, rich history as well as traditional markets. Unlike the modern side, the old Dubai offers an authentic experience. The historical buildings, museums and cultural experience give a deep inside to these traditions. Souks in Old Dubai include spice souks, textile souk and gold souk with unique offerings. These markets are ideal places to shop spices, jewelry, perfumes, traditional goods and souvenirs.
Beyond the architectural beauty, old Dubai offers a perfect blend of Persian and Arabian influences. The courtyard houses and wind towers create a great setting into a different era. Furthermore, Old Dubai is home to a lot of cultural centers and museums to discover the history and heritage of Dubai. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for cultural understanding and Dubai Museum exhibits traditional life with guides and cultural activities.
How to reach old Dubai: Different Ways
Old Dubai can easily be accessible from various parts of the city. However, some of the best ways are:
By Metro
- Dubai Metro is one of the most convenient ways to reach. Al Fahidi metro station( green line) is close to Dubai Museum and textile souk.
- Burjuman metro station( Red and Green Line) makes our central point to assess the old side of the city. From Burjuman, you can walk or avail rent a car Dubai service to reach the nearby attractions.
- Al Ras metro station (green line) is located near spice souk gold souk in Deira Dubai. Follow the signs to reach within a few minutes.
By Bus
Road network connects various parts of the city to all of Dubai.
- Bus route C07 stops near Al Fahidi historical neighborhood and Dubai Museum.
- Bus route 8 connects Jumeirah to Al Ghubaiba bus station in Dubai.
- Bus route 27 connects gold souk and spice souk with Deira Dubai.
Rent a car service
Car rental services are one of the comfortable and affordable options to reach Old Dubai especially when you are traveling with luggage. You can easily get a car rental service throughout the city to reach your destination with door to door service.
By Abra
If you want a scenic route, take an Abra ride a cross
Various stations are located on both sites of Dubai Creek. The ride cost just one AED with a unique view of surrounding areas. The most popular route is from Deira old souk Abra station to Bur Dubai Abra station.
Best Things To do in Old Dubai
If you’re visiting the old side of Dubai and looking for some of the best things to do with the family, the below guide is for you.
Visit Dubai Museum
Dubai Museum is located in the historical Al Fahidi Fort. It’s one of the must visit attractions to get a perfect overview of the history of the city. The Museum will take you on a journey from early days as a humble fishing village to the global city. Get a chance to admire the interactive displays and life size dioramas. It showcases The pearl diving traditional lifestyle and bustling souks. Moreover, Dubai Museum also has archaeological findings that provide a deeper understanding of historical development of the region.
Explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Wander through the narrow lines of Al Fahidi historical neighborhood. The area is also famous to admire Dubai’s past with wind towers and courtyard houses. You can visit galleries such as XVA gallery, Majlis Gallery and coffee Museum to get a great insight of artistic traditions, making it an ideal sport for cultural lovers.
Enjoy a Traditional Arabian Meal
Don’t miss to experience the flavors of traditional Arabian cuisine. Old Dubai is home to many restaurants offering traditional dishes such as falafel, shawarma, hummus and more. Try the local dishes with charming settings and enjoy a variety of Middle Eastern dishes. Many restaurants serve authentic Emirati cuisine in a nostalgic nostalgic setting because it’s not all about food but the cultural experience in the region.
Shop at Gold Souk
Deira Dubai has gold souks, making it one of the most famous markets for visitors. The market offers a wide range of jewelry, traditional ornaments and precious stones. With over 300 retailers, the Gold Souk in old Dubai offers everything ranging from handmade pieces to bridal sets. Gold souks is one of the great places to find unique jewelry pieces with competitive prices as compared to shopping malls.
Discovered the Textile Souk
In Bur Dubai, the textile souk is nothing less than a heaven for fabric lovers. The market offers a wide range of cotton textiles including cotton, silk and embroidered fabric with clothing accessories and souvenirs. No matter if you are looking for attractive patterns, unique prints or custom made garments, the textile souk in Old Dubai is an ideal place to find high quality fabric.
Discover the Spice Souk
The spice souk in Old Dubai is a sensory delight. The aromatic sense and beautiful colors of Spices are filling the air. Get a chance to discover a variety of herbs, spices and remedies. They have everything ranging from turmeric to saffron and dry roses. Along with the spices, you can also find nuts, dry fruits and oil. The spice souk offers a lively atmosphere making it a must visit spot in Old Dubai.
Take and Abra ride on the Creek
The visit to old Dubai is incomplete without experiencing the charm of taking an Abra ride. The wooden boats are the symbol of the maritime heritage of the city. Cross the creek and enjoy the astonishing views of the skyline along the water. Taking an Abra ride is one of the calming and relaxing ways to admire the beautiful contrast between old and new city. Take a look at historical buildings on one side and skyscrapers on the other.
Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
If you want a deep understanding of Emirati traditions and cultures, visit Sheikh Mohammed Centre for cultural understanding. The center is located in the Al Fahidi historical neighborhood. It would be best if you guide with cultural activities and traditional meals. Many programs are also offered to provide unique insights to cultural exchange and understanding for the people.
Best restaurants in Old Dubai
It’s interesting to know that Old Dubai is home to a wide range of dining options ranging from traditional cuisine to International flavors. Let’s have a look at some of the best restaurants to try in Old Dubai.
Al-Fanar Restaurant
Al-Fanar restaurant is located in Al Seef. The place offers the nostalgic dining experience in Dubai with its Emirates decoration and menu. Enjoy their signature dishes such as harees, luqaimat, and machboos while admiring the beautiful views of Dubai Creek.
Al Ustad Special Kabab
Al Ustad Special Kabab is one of the popular restaurants in Old Dubai. If you want delicious Kebab and Grill meat, get there with a casual sitting and friendly atmosphere. The place is quite famous among tourists as well as for locals in Old Dubai.
Ravi Restaurant
Ravi restaurant is located in Al Satwa. It is one of the legendary treats famous for delicious and affordable Pakistani dishes. Admire the bustling atmosphere of the restaurant, making it an ideal choice for a traditional meal in the region.
Arabian Tea House
For a charming and authentic dining experience, Old Dubai offers Arabian tea houses. The restaurant has a traditional courtyard while serving a variety of Arabian dishes. You must try their traditional desserts, grilled meat and Barbecue.
Best hotels in Old Dubai
Old Dubai has multiple accommodation options ranging from budget friendly to luxurious. However, some of the best hotels to consider for staying are the following ones.
Al Seef Heritage Hotel
Al Seef Heritage Hotel in old Dubai is part of Al Seef development. The place offers the perfect fusion of modern hospitality with traditional charm. All the rooms of hotels are beautifully designed and inspired by traditional Arabian architecture.
The Astoria hotel
The Astoria Hotel is located in Bur Dubai, offering comfortable and affordable accommodation options. The hotel has multiple dining options, modern amenities and is closest to the major attractions of the city.
Al Fahidi Guest House
If you want an authentic and charming stay in Al Fahidi historical neighborhood. Get a chance to admire the comfortable rooms, traditional decoration and courtyard Garden during your stay.
Popular Beaches near Old Dubai
Old Dubai is famous for its historical and cultural attractions but there are many beautiful nearby beaches.
Kite Beach
Kite beach is one of the popular spots for water sports lovers. The place offers a variety of activities including Beach volleyball, kite surfing and paddle boarding. Kite beach also has an outdoor gym, jogging track and multiple food trucks.
La Mer Beach
La Mer Beach is one of the beautiful beachfront destinations. The place offers the perfect blend of dining, shopping and entertainment options. The La Mer beach in Dubai features clear water, soft sand and lively atmosphere located a short drive from Old Dubai.
Sunset Beach
Sunset beach is also famous as Umm Suqeim beach, located near iconic Burj Al Arab. It offers a calming and picturesque environment. Get a chance to admire the astonishing views of sunset with a relaxing evening by the sea.
Best Time to Visit Old Dubai
Winter is the best time to visit Old Dubai, from November to March. During this period, the weather is quite pleasant and that temperature ranges from 20 degree centigrade to 30 degree centigrade making it best for outdoor activities.
Summer (April to October)
Summers are extremely hot in Old Dubai as that temperature exceeds to 40 degree centigrade. However it is still possible to visit for indoor activities. Moreover, you can explore the area during early morning or late evening.
Winter (November to March)
Winters offer the best weather to explore the Old Side of Dubai as the temperature is comfortable. Take part in outdoor activities, shop at soup and enjoy cultural experience in the City. In winter, the Dubai shopping festival gives a great time to shop for unique items and take part in various activities.
