Historic places in Dubai

Historic places in Dubai

1. SeeBur Dubai

   Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

   Bastakiya District

   One of the last remaining pockets of Old Dubai, home to many reconstructed buildings in the traditional style. While information on the structures is slim here (see the museum in preference), the atmosphere is very evocative and there are plenty of delightful art galleries and cafes to explore.

   Free of charge

2. SeeBur Dubai

   Dubai Museum

   A must-see for anyone interested in the social history of the Emirate (and indeed the country). Located in and under al-Fahidi fort. The fort itself has a few examples of the traditional reed houses and other artifacts, but isn't much to look at. The more interesting parts are the modern galleries beneath the fort, showcasing Dubai's history using the latest technology and culminating in a reconstructed souq from the pearling days, complete with authentic sights and sounds. It is quite fascinating to see the speed at which the transition from poor pearling village to modern metropolis occurred.

   Sat-Thu 8:30AM–8:30PM, Fri 2PM–8:30PM·Admission 3 dirham

3. SeeJumeirah

   Etihad Museum

   Union House

   Museum about the construction of the Union of the Emirates, after the withdrawal of British forces. Open in 2017, it features exhibits about the seven fathers, and the constitution. The Union House, where the treaty was signed, can be visited as well as the Guest Palace. It also hosts temporary exhibitions (e.g., philatelic in May 2017).

   10:00–20:00 daily·25 dirham per adult

4. BuyDeira

   Gold Souk

   Not a mall, but a historic market that has been a part of Dubai since the origin of Dubai itself. Located at the mouth of the creek, it dazzles people by selling gold in large quantities and with little visible security. A must visit for shoppers and sightseers. Most of the gold is 22ct quality and quite expensive - although even here the shopkeepers are prepared to bargain - and the craftsmanship can be remarkably detailed. The gold items are sold by weight with a "making charge" added on top to cover the workmanship. It pays therefore, to go shopping armed with the current gold price and a knowledge of the making charges in order to hone the bargaining process. Many outlets are part of chains that also have branches in malls, so are generally reliable.

5. SeeJumeirah

   Jumeirah Mosque

   The largest mosque in the city, and a wonderful example of Islamic architecture. It was built in the medieval Fatimid tradition with the interior decorated with elaborate Arabic calligraphy. It is one of few mosques in the city open for visits by non-Muslims; the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding conducts special tours for non-Muslims to help promote understanding of Islam. Guided tours are available on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday beginning at 10:00, followed by a question-and-answer session. The mosque is an especially great place to visit in the evening when it's dramatically illuminated by floodlights.

6. SeeBur Dubai

   Saeed Al Maktoum House

   Another very historic building built in 1894 now converted into a museum and contains artefacts and images of the old town of Dubai. It was the residence of the Saeed bin Maktoum bin Hasher Al Maktoum, the former ruler of Dubai.

   Sat-Thu: 8:00-20:30; Fr: 15:30-21:30; Ramadan Sat-Thu: 09:00-17:00 Fr: 14:00-17:00

7. SeeBur Dubai

   Sheikh Obaid bin Thani House

   a historic building home to royal family members built in 1916 and now converted into a museum. It provides good glimpse to old infrastructure of Dubai.

8. BuyDeira

   Spice Souk

   Also not a mall, but a historic market that has been a part of Dubai since the city's origin. Located at the mouth of the creek, it is not far from the Gold Souk, but declined a bit in the 2010s as supermarkets take over the spice trade. If you're shopping for spices, odds are you'll get better prices and quality with much less hassle at Carrefour. Both the Spice Souk and the Gold Souq are a rather hot and sweaty experience with limited air-conditioning, so wear appropriately cool, loose clothing if visiting in mid summer. Individual shops are air conditioned. Although regularly visited by tourists, none of the souks are considered a tourist area and as such modest dress should be worn to avoid causing offence or attracting unwanted attention.

9. EatJumeirah

   Shang Palace

   Good Chinese food. No smoking

   Sun-Fri 12:30-03:00, Sat 11:00-03:00·200 dirham

Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Dubai (CC BY-SA 4.0).