Top 10 Hidden Historical Sites in Dubai
Dubai a city known for luxury and contemporary architecture has rapidly emerged as the innovation capital of the worlds. Nonetheless, beneath the glamorous exterior of modern buildings, towering skyscrapers and crowded shopping malls there is a lot of history to be revealed. The historical sites in Dubai are the testimony that the emirate has developed from a small fishing village to one of the most progressive cities in the world. While tourists are eagerly visiting the Burj Khalifa and the over-the-top malls, there are plenty of offbeat sights that would allow visitors to discover the historic face of this incredible place.
Having read this guide to a Dubai Traditional City Tour it is high time to learn more about the historical background of the city. Even today’s historical sites are not only the beauty of architectural work but also the customs and living standards of the people of Dubai. From old dazzling districts to colorful bazaars, these places will give you a great chance to feel the spirit of Dubai. If you are a history lover or a simple tourist interested in the history of the Emirate, these gems of history will not leave you indifferent.
This blog is going to reveal 10 lesser-known historical places that might interest the tourists visiting Dubai. Every place has a story to tell, which gives the taste of different cultures that have influenced Dubai one way or the other. Finding out these historical places in Dubai will not only improve your experience in this contemporary city but also get acquainted with its history. If you’re planning to explore these hidden gems, make sure to check your Dubai transit visa requirements for a smooth journey. Let us take you through the incredible history that dwells within the geographical confines of Dubai and welcome you to the emirate in a new way.
Here is the Top 10 Hidden Historical Sites in Dubai
1. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Located in the middle of Dubai, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood is a well-protected district that represents the style of architecture of the Middle East. These small alleys, wind catchers and courtyards have their own histories to narrate. Here you can visit art galleries and museums depicting artists from the emirate and the emirate’s developmental process. The chance for visitors at this place is the possibility to get acquainted with the life of the first inhabitants of Dubai and enjoy the architecture of buildings that have no analogues.
2. Dubai Museum
Located in the Al Fahidi Fort built in 1787, the Dubai Museum is a museum full of objects that portray the Dubai’s growth from a fishing community to a modern city. I found exhibits in the museum very lively and informative, which gave the visitors good insight of the historical sites in Dubai and the growth of the culture. There are a variety of exhibits that tell about the traditional life of Emirati people, trade, and history while walking through the thick walls of the ancient fort.
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3. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
This beautiful house was the residence of the founder of the modern city – Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum and perfectly demonstrates the architecture of the UAE of that time. The building has been converted into a museum, where there are photographs and documents showing history and culture of Dubai. The wooden roof trusses and wind towers are similar to the architecture typical for the beginning of the 20th century. Historically the house is an important element of Dubai and provides a view of the ruling family of Dubai and development of the city in the course of the years.
4. Bastakiya Quarter
Often referred to as Al Bastakiya, the district is marked by its houses, with the internal yards, galleries, and cultural establishments. It provides a good view of the trading past of Dubai since it was once occupied by rich Persian merchants. The close-to-carriageway alleys and early twentieth-century structures give a past feeling, possibly one of the oldest heritage areas in the city. Visiting the Bastakiya Quarter is recommended to anyone who would take a closer look at the history of Dubai as well as the history of the whole emirate.
5. Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque is probably one of the rare mosques in Dubai where foreigners including Christians can visit. Because of the white exterior and beautiful carvings, many tourists like to take family photos at this place. The mosque also provides guided tours through its premises and also gives information about Islamic culture and history of Dubai. This is an important historical landmark in Dubai and therefore it helps break the cultural barrier by educating different people from across the world on the Islamic culture.
6. The Al Maktoum Bridge
The Al Maktoum Bridge that links the Deira and Bur Dubai is not just an important transportation corridor but also an historical structure. The building opened in 1963 and it represents the development and the modernity of the city as well as the infrastructures that preceded Dubai. It is an interesting landmark to visit in Dubai as it is a prime example of Dubai’s architectural development regarding the Dubai Creek; The bridge also provides nice views of the creek.
7. The Coffee Museum
The Coffee Museum is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood and explores the history of coffee and its importance to the UAE. It has sections on how coffee was processed, equipment, and other items that explain the journey of coffee through the area. Through tastings and workshops, this site gives another aspect of the historical sites in Dubai on how the coffee has infiltrated the social sphere of Dubai.
8. The Old Souk
The Old Souk or the Dubai Spice Souk is one of the liveliest markets that has been in existence for trading for centuries. The crowded environment, the variety of the stands, and the architectural appearance of the markets gives a view into the commercial aspect of Dubai. Here visitors get spices, textile and handicrafts which makes it an area that is an experience to the trading aspect of the region. Over and above it, the Old Souk demonstrates how historical sites in Dubai have been influenced by the commerce.
9. Heritage and Diving Village
Located on the periphery of Dubai Creek, which has been developed as the Heritage and Diving Village. There are currently several areas that tourists can learn about pearl diving, fishing, and the Emirates crafts. It provides the reconstructed replicas of the buildings of the old-styled architecture and has cultural programs; thus, giving a glimpse of the past life of the people of the coastal area of Dubai. It is a worthy continuation of the traditions that have been actively maintained in the city for many years and will complement the list of historical places in Dubai.
10. Hatta Heritage Village
Situated just over an hour’s drive outside of Dubai, Hatta Heritage Village is an open-air museum of a village which is an attempt at recreating the traditional architecture of the region. The site consists of several restored houses, a mosque and several exhibitions which demonstrate the historical and cultural possibilities of that location. Although Hatta is rich in history, the most eye-catching feature is the natural beauty of the Hajar Mountains where the sites are located; therefore, Hatta is worth a visit if you are interested in the variety of historical sites in Dubai.
Conclusion
Visiting these off the beaten path historical points in Dubai is an intriguing experience, which unveils the history of the city that has turned into an innovative worldwide phenomenon. If you are a lover of history, or maybe you just desire something out of the ordinary during your Dubai Modern City Tour, then these places are a perfect mix of culture, architectural designs, and traditions. Do not lose an opportunity to explore the history that is an important part of the story of this amazing place, which is the history of Dubai.
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