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Long before the city of Dubai was known for its impressive skyscrapers and the Burj Khalifa, the rich culture of the place was the Dubai old city. It was not the glamour that is shown nowadays, but rather a place filled with tradition. The story of the emirates is a history that shows how the old city of Dubai has always been a lively place. 

The Dubai old town is a place of souks and buildings that brim with heritage. The locals have done a fantastic job in keeping the authenticity of the city full of life, even when the many attractions have been modernised. The more you explore the old town of Dubai, the more you will know what the blend of legacy and modernity looks like. 

The Allure of the Dubai Old City

Bur Dubai and Deira are the two main parts of Dubai's old city, which is located in the northern part of the city. In contrast to the trendy metropolis that everyone is familiar with, Old Dubai city has its unique charm. A visit to Old Dubai is essential if you want to feel the real spirit of Dubai.

Before the oil reservoirs, Dubai was a large port. It was the hub for trading fish and pearls. The traders would come from all over the Asian and African continent. The wooden boats are still used to traverse the waters as a tribute to the trading roots of Dubai from the 19th century. 

The core old town Dubai indicators are:

• Coral-stone buildings
• Sand colored wind towers
• Labyrinthine markets

If you want to experience and feel the history, then these are the signatures of old Dubai city, with the modern town nearby. The mosques, painted shops, and the golden sunset over the Creek will leave you in awe.

Must-Visit Spots in the Old Town Dubai

So, to see the untouched and quiet space of the old city of Dubai, here are a few locations you should visit:

Al Fahidi Historical District

One of old town Dubai's oldest heritage sites is the Al Fahidi ancient neighborhood, sometimes referred to as Al Bastakiya. The district is reminiscent of a time before the federation of the emirates, when the Emirati tribes united in 1971, and when the pearl trade was thriving in the area.

• You will encounter ochre-colored structures composed of gypsum, clay, coral, or palm wood as you weave through the tiny, winding passageways. 
• The wind towers above the homes are visible if you look up; they are the time's equivalent of local air conditioning, and their purpose is to circulate cool air within the structures. 
• You can take an abra tour of Al Bastakiya along the Creek for an unforgettable experience.

Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek served as both a fishing area and a commercial entry point. It was a pearl place as well. And the main area where spices, gold, and textiles would come together in trade.

• Here, you can enjoy boat rides. The abra, a wooden boat, is a unique experience that transports you to Bur Dubai, the opposite side. 
• It costs only 1 AED. So for an authentic and vibrant experience, you should hop on the abra.

Dubai old town's Dubai Heritage Village transports you back in time by preserving traditional Arabian village lifestyles. Sheikh Saeed's home is now a museum with significant records and images on exhibit.

The Old Souks of Deira

This historic market, which is tucked away in Bur Dubai, has a timeless beauty. It's difficult to leave empty-handed after navigating the lanes and discovering shops and vendors offering cashmere, raw silk, wool, fragrances, spices, and dry fruits.  

• Silk scarves, thawbs (Arabic robes), abayas (full-length women's robes), and even customized clothing are excellent mementos. Just don't forget to bargain for a decent price! 
• The metro is the best way to get there, although you may take a cheap abra (boat) from Deira and travel the picturesque route. 
• Many destinations of Dubai's old city also include a stop in the souk.

Cultural Treasures and Local Life

While the old city of Dubai is rich in history, it’s also alive with contemporary culture:

Al Seef

Souk Al Seef is a lively waterfront promenade where ancient meets new. It is divided into two areas. One is an old-world heritage sector, and the second is a contemporary portion featuring malls, hotels, and restaurants.

• You learn about the Gulf's history as a popular pearl diving harbor.
• You can see the open-air floating market and 1950s-style souk, get a henna tattoo, and shop for handicrafts along the sikkas. 
• On a dinner cruise, you can also join a romantic dhow boat and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. 

Heritage Village

The Heritage Village is a unique representation of the history and culture of Dubai's old city. This open-air museum is not just a show of props.

• It is a live exhibition of traditional crafts that have helped sustain the old Dubai city. 
• You will see pottery, weaving, and metalwork happening right before your eyes. 
• These activities are even more vibrant during cultural festivals and celebratory days such as the UAE National Day.

Al Shindagha Museum

The Al Shindagha Museum is situated across Dubai Creek. It narrates the rich history and culture of the country. The exhibition of Dubai's history is offered through a multimedia experience. It is called ‘Dubai Creek: Birth of a City’ which takes you through the amazing evolution of Dubai.

• You will see interactive videos, touch displays and pictures of the historical artifacts. 
• The videos will take you through the journey of how Emiratis raised their families near the waterways. 
• You will also be able to visit the Saruq Al-Hadid Museum. It has interactive artifacts of the everyday items that date back thousands of years.

Tips for Exploring the Old Dubai City

Getting Around

If you want to go around Old Dubai city with a budget-friendly approach, then use the metro. It is located near the Al Fahidi and Al Ras and allows you to visit most of the old city Dubai's attractions.

• If you want more control over where you want to explore, you can use a taxi. The drivers are well-versed in knowing the best routes.
• You can always choose to traverse the waters with an abra, the wooden boat, that only costs 1 AED. It will take you across the Dubai Creek, from Bur Dubai to Deira.
• Walking tours are also an option if you want to soak in the tradition and culture of the old town of Dubai.

What to Wear and When to Go

Because you will be visiting the traditional area of old Dubai city, it is better to dress conservatively. It means that whatever you wear, you should cover your shoulders and knees.

• For females, wearing an abaya is a great way to truly feel and understand the values of Dubai's old city.
• For the best experience, you should visit the old city of Dubai during the colder months, as it is a desert area and the heat is excruciating if you are not used to it.
• If you do plan to make this a summer trip, then the best time to explore is after sunset or early mornings, when you will see the blend of lights and decor of the old town of Dubai.

Final Thoughts

The old city of Dubai is the place you go to when you want to experience the rich history and participate in rooted cultures. From Al Fahidi to negotiating for a fair price for saffron, you can explore the traditions that have truly shaped Dubai for the future.

So, after you are done visiting the skyscrapers and would like to dip your feet into the history of Dubai, the old city is the place to go. Spend a day or two in the Old Dubai city and experience the timeless beauty of the coral-stone buildings, sand coloured wind towers, and the souks. Feel the wind of traders and experience the story with One Click Tourism.