Dubai is a city where old meets new, where tradition meets innovation. While the city is famous for its skyscrapers and luxury, it also has a lot of history. Exploring historic Dubai will give you a different perspective on how the city evolved from a small fishing village to a global city. Here’s a list of must see historic sites and experiences that will take you back in time.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Start your historic journey here at the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood also known as Al Bastakiya. This area will give you a glimpse of Dubai’s past with its narrow streets, traditional wind-tower architecture and peaceful courtyards. Wander through the maze like streets to find art galleries, museums and cultural centres housed in beautifully restored buildings.
The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) is located in Al Fahidi and offers guided tours, traditional Emirati meals and cultural experiences. It’s a great place to learn about local customs, dress and daily life in a friendly environment.
Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort
The Dubai Museum is located inside the Al Fahidi Fort and is the city’s main museum. The fort itself dates back to 1787 and is the oldest building in Dubai. Inside you’ll find exhibits that showcase the transformation of the city from a pearl diving centre to a global trade and tourism hub.
The museum has life-size dioramas, archaeological finds and multimedia presentations that will bring the past to life. A must visit for anyone who wants to know the history of this city.
Dubai Creek: The Life of the City
Dubai Creek has been the commercial heart of the city for centuries. Take an abra (traditional wooden boat) ride across the creek to see how the early traders used to navigate the waters. The Deira side of the creek is home to the famous Gold and Spice Souks where you can wander through the narrow lanes filled with the scent of spices and gold jewellery.
The creek area also has the Heritage and Diving Village which showcases Dubai’s maritime heritage and its history as a pearl diving centre. Here you can learn about traditional boat building, pearl diving and Bedouin life.
Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque is one of Dubai’s most beautiful landmarks and is open to visitors of all faiths. Built in the traditional Fatimid style, the mosque is an architectural masterpiece. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding offers guided tours that will give you a deeper understanding of Islamic culture and traditions. A must visit for history and culture lovers.
Explore Historic Dubai with a Car Rental
To make the most of your historic journey, rent a car to move between these sites. A cheap monthly car rental in Dubai is a great option for those who are staying longer and want the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. This way you can travel conveniently from one historic site to another without the hassle of public transport or multiple bookings.
Into Dubai’s Maritime Past
Al Shindagha Museum
Al Shindagha Museum located along Dubai Creek gives you a complete picture of Dubai’s maritime history and its evolution over the decades. The museum is housed in traditional buildings that have been beautifully restored and has exhibits on pearl diving, fishing and the role of the creek in Dubai’s growth.
You can interact with the displays, watch documentaries and see historic boats up close. The Perfume House, part of the museum complex, is about the art of perfume making which is an integral part of Arabian culture.
Traditional Markets: Souks of Dubai
Gold Souk and Spice Souk
Visiting the Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira is like going back in time to old Dubai’s trading days. The Gold Souk is a glittering market with shops selling all sorts of gold jewellery, diamonds and precious stones. The Spice Souk will mesmerise your senses with its colours and aromas, with a wide range of spices, herbs, dried fruits and traditional medicines.
Both souks are a great place to shop where haggling is expected and you can interact with the local traders to learn more about the history and culture of Dubai’s trading heritage.
The Majlis Gallery: A Cultural Gem
Located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, The Majlis Gallery is one of Dubai’s oldest art galleries. Established in the 1980s, this lovely gallery is set in a traditional Emirati house with a wind tower and courtyard. The gallery features works by local and international artists with a focus on paintings, sculptures and ceramics. A great place to appreciate art and culture in a historic setting.
Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
The Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House located in the Al Shindagha area is one of Dubai’s most historic sites. Built in 1896, this house was the residence of Dubai’s former ruler, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum and now is a museum. The house has exhibits on Dubai’s history with old photographs, coins, stamps and documents that will give you a glimpse of the past.
Dubai’s historic sites will take you on a journey through time and give you a glimpse of how Dubai evolved from a small trading post to a global city. By visiting these landmarks you will get to understand Dubai’s cultural heritage better. With a car rental in Dubai you can drive around and discover the city’s hidden gems at your own pace and have a complete and fun historical experience.
