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Traditional Abra ferries at the creek in Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Shutterstock ID 119893231; Your name (First / Last): Lauren Keith; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: Dubai Neighbourhoods Update

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Overview

Bur Dubai may not be as sleek and sophisticated as the newer townships, but its animated street life exudes a sense of community spirit that is rarely found elsewhere. Come here to soak up the city's history in the Dubai Museum and the restored Al Fahidi and Shindagha historic districts. Wander the lanes around the souq teeming with locals, ethnic eateries and atmospheric traditional shops. Stock up on souvenirs then watch the boat traffic on Dubai Creek from a waterfront cafe in the re-energised Al Seef area.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Dubai Museum

    Dubai Museum

    Bur Dubai

    The city's main historical museum charts Dubai's turbo-evolution from fishing and pearling village to global centre of commerce, finance and tourism. It…

  • Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

    Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

    Bur Dubai

    Anyone keen on delving deeper into Emirati culture and history should take advantage of the activities, Emirati meals and tours offered through this…

  • Al Fahidi Historic District

    Al Fahidi Historic District

    Bur Dubai

    Traffic fades to a quiet hum in the labyrinthine lanes of this nicely restored heritage area formerly known as the Bastakiya Quarter. Its narrow walking…

  • Alserkal Cultural Foundation

    Alserkal Cultural Foundation

    Bur Dubai

    This nonprofit foundation runs the most dynamic cultural space in the Al Fahidi Historic District. Galleries showcasing traditional and cutting-edge works…

  • DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - March 21, 2017 - The sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House museum, Al Shindagha area.; Shutterstock ID 613264934; Your name (First / Last): Lauren Keith; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: Authentic Dubai Article

    Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

    Bur Dubai

    Recently restored as part of the new Shindagha Historic District development, this grand courtyard house served as the residence of Sheikh Saeed, the…

  • Shindagha Historic District

    Shindagha Historic District

    Bur Dubai

    Strategically located at the mouth of Dubai Creek, Shindagha was where the ruling sheikhs and the city elite lived until the 1950s. While a few of the…

  • Al Seef

    Al Seef

    Bur Dubai

    In the early 1900s this historical area was Dubai's trading hub, during a period when the pearl diving industry was being developed. Stretching some 1.8km…

  • Crossroads of Civilizations Museum

    Crossroads of Civilizations Museum

    Bur Dubai

    This private museum in the Shindagha Historic District provides a fascinating glimpse of Dubai's historic role as a trading link between East and West. On…

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