Dubai has come a long way since its founding as a pearl-hunting village. It has transformed into a modern metropolis with gleaming architecture and man-made islands of soft white sand. But behind the futuristic skyscrapers, Michelin-starred restaurants and glamorous shopping malls, Dubai’s traditional heart remains, reported by The Telegraph.
The streets of the historic Al Fahidi district and the fragrant souks, fragrant with spices and vibrant colors, are ready to be explored. The nation’s rich heritage blends perfectly with Dubai’s modernity, where international cuisine and beach life take place against the backdrop of ancient culture. Dubai Creek will take you on a breathtaking journey back in time, where you can sail between Deira and Bur Dubai on a real abra boat.
Learn more about Emirati traditions
Visit the labyrinthine Spice Souk at Deira Marina with its sacks and packets of brightly scented spices, or head to the even more fragrant Perfume Souk. And don’t miss the dazzling spectacle of the Gold Souk, where you can barter for gems and diamonds, precious metals and jewellery. Bur Dubai is the oldest part of the city, where dhow boats moor by the water, and the distinctive narrow streets and Arabian wind towers – a traditional way of cooling buildings – define the historic Al Fahidi district. Here you’ll also find museums and galleries, artisans honing their skills and quiet, shaded courtyards. You can learn more about Emirati traditions and enjoy traditional food at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding.
Delve even further into the past as you leave the city behind and head into the desert for a desert dinner, secluded under starlight and torchlight. The Desert Safari Tour will show you Dubai as it was in the 1950s, taking you in vintage open-top Land Rovers on a spectacular journey through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to a Bedouin camp.
Dubai: The Brilliant Present
After delving into Dubai’s history, it’s time to return to the present. Nothing brings you into the present like the city’s impressive architecture. The impressive Museum of the Future is housed in a torus-shaped steel building covered in Arabic calligraphy. You can admire stunning views from the top of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and explore the UAE’s heritage in the gleaming white curves of the Etihad Museum.
The Dubai Opera is a glamorous venue for a range of performances, while the Dubai Frame not only presents the cityscape in a new way, but also tells the story of the Emirate and its future, and gives the feeling of walking on air as you cross its glass bridge. There are art galleries, such as the Ayam and Majlis galleries, which showcase contemporary Middle Eastern art, and the culinary scene encompasses everything from contemporary Emirati chefs creating homey retreats to the glamour of star-studded shows, fabulous brunches to cozy cafes.
Golfers enjoy the opportunity to play first-hand on some of the world’s most spectacular courses, including beach, desert and pristine parkland. For car enthusiasts, there are a wealth of vintage and luxury cars that roam the streets and are on display at one of the city’s many auto cafes. These venues not only celebrate motorsport, but also offer the chance to see incredible cars up close. And of course, the beach clubs are simply wonderful, with sun, sea and sand stretching out before you under shady palm trees; plus sumptuous food, fierce music and a lively party atmosphere.