Light up on what life in old Dubai was like, during the mid-19th century none other than Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood . It is located along the Dubai Creek and this district is a key heritage site with much of initial infrastructure preserved and intact.
The historic wind towers – constructed from stone, teak, gypsum, palm wood and sandalwood – represent only a small part of Al Fahidi’s history. Each alley, twisting pathway and breezy towers tell a story of a life before the seven emirates.
Guide to Al Fahidi Historical District
Traffic fades to a quiet hum in the labyrinthine lanes of this nicely stored heritage area formerly known as the Bastakiya Quarter. Its narrow walking lane is flanked by sand-colored houses topped with wind towers, which provide natural air-conditioning. The buildings of the district are right now used in incubating a number of varied cultural and artistic activities (both public and private) ranging from art exhibits, specialized museums, cultural artistic societies, ateliers to cultural centers. This district also hosts a number of seasonal cultural and artistic events such as Sikka Art Fair, Artists-in-residence Programme, Heritage Week, National Day Events and religious celebrations. Beautiful and cozy cafes, restaurants and motels overflowing with heritage are scattered all around.
Chase the winding streets to discover a range of cultural activities, museums, art galleries, special events and traditional food. Don’t forget to check out Dubai’s Calendar so that you never miss an event in the neighbourhood – particularly Sikka Art Fair and Heritage Week of Dubai.
Al Bastakiya | Bur DubaiAl Hamriya
The quarter was built in the early 1900s by merchants from the Persian towns of Bastak, who settled in Dubai to take advantage of tax breaks granted by the sheikh. By the 1970s, though, the buildings had fallen into disrepair and residents began moving on the newer, more comfortable neighbourhoods.
A dwell to Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a great opportunity to get familiarized with the old way of life, which was prevalent in Dubai, with its rich values that can be seen in the design of the buildings and the way they are distributed. For instance, once cannot overlook the community’s care for privacy that can be felt in the scarcity of front windows, their narrowness and highness. Also, the winding and twisting alleys and pathways, as well as erecting all of the district buildings facing south west towards the Qibla, in addition to a number of values and principles that will unravel once the visitor experiences Al Fahidi Neighbourhood for themselves.
Events and activities at Al Fahidi
There are more than 50 “houses” to explore. Start at the Sheikh Mohammed center for Cultural understanding, where you can take a culturally immersive tour of the district. There is also the fascinating Coins Museum with over 470 rare coins displayed, which shines a spotlight on the monetary system of the British Empire, India and countries in the region before independence.
Other highlights include the Symposium House and Events house, which often stages cultural events and heritage-related activities, such as demonstrations by local craftsmen. Make sure you don’t miss the Calligraphy House (Dar Al Khatt), that specializes in Arabic calligraphy and everything related to the creative art form. Also visit the municipality house that stands as a remarkable example of traditional Dubai architecture.
Some basic details related to Al Fahidi
- Geographical location: Al Fahidi historical area – Bur Dubai
- Area: 31,000 square meters
- Working hours: tourists can visit the neighbourhood around the clock, taking into account the official working hours of the museums and official headquarters
- Admission Fees: Free of cost
- Contact details: 80033222
- E-mail: info@dubaiculture.ae
- Public Transport: tourists can reach the location through the Al Fahidi bus station nearby the district
- Metro stations Nearby: Reach the location through Al Fahidi Metro station nearby
- Parking: Free parking area is available close to the neighbourhood
Find the best time to travel to Dubai according to the Dubai calendar with all the dates for upcoming events. Once you travel to Dubai do not miss on visiting Al Fahidi historical neighbourhood. Easily apply for your Dubai visa and in three steps get your visa in hand. Once you are done with this visa procedure, do not miss to book the pre itinerary for cost saving in Dubai. Also, get the list of top hotels for a comfortable stay.
