The towering skyscrapers along Sheikh Zayed Road reflect Dubai’s rapid development into a leading business and tourism hub. But visitors can still get a taste of the emirate’s history and culture at Heritage Village.
Located near the Creek in Bur Dubai, the village takes visitors back to an age where traditional Arab houses, narrow souks, mosques and date farms dominated the desert landscape. Among the highlights is Al Fahidi Fort, which houses Dubai Museum. The battlement was built around 1787 in a strategic spot between the town and creek to fend off attackers. It was renovated in 1971 and now stands as a museum, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of early settlers. Exhibits include excavations that unearthed artifacts dating back to 3,000 BC, the Bedouin lifestyle and bustling trade along the creek.
Another landmark worth visiting is the official residence of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum. The late ruler of Dubai (1912-1958) lived at the abode, which dates back to 1896, for many years. Today, it carries a collection of historic photographs, coins and documents.
To learn more about the emirate’s past, tourists should visit the Sheikh Obaid bin
Thani House in Shindaga. Built in 1916, the two-storey stone and mud dwelling measures
1,250 square metres and has since been converted into a museum.
Islamic architecture can be found at Bur Dubai Creekside promenade, which houses several historic buildings that offer panoramic views of the creek. Tourists can also visit Burj Nahar, one of many watchtowers that guarded the old city after it was built in 1870. Similarly to other historic sites, the tower – which lies on the Deira side of the creek – has been restored and is now surrounded by picturesque gardens.
