Although Dubai may be recognised for its glamorous skyscrapers and state-of-the-art technologies, today we’re going to have to look at the city’s beginnings-specifically historical places that offer us an interesting snapshot of the past of this fascinating emirate. Join us as we take a peek at some of the most interesting historical locations near Bulgari Residences Dubai.
List of Dubai heritage sites
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Established in the mid-19th century, the historic neighbourhood of Al Fahidi (formerly known as Bastakiya) is a vivid emblem of the history of the city and its cultural potential. Located on the Dubai Creek banks (Bur Dubai side), the community was one of the city’s first settlements, due to its great location.
Walking to Al Fahidi is a delight for the senses, as tourists are embraced by spices’ scent and the glimpse of the famous tan towers. Some of Al Fahidi are the ruins of the old Dubai wall and the gloriously bizarre Dubai Museum.
Al Fahidi is also home to the XVA Art Hotel’s secret jewel – an art museum, a cafe, and a boutique hotel all packed in one! There are also other places to do in this interesting neighbourhood, including various art galleries, artistic spaces, bars, shops and the Sheik Mohammed Centre for Cultural Awareness (SMCCU). The SMCCU is a perfect place for tourists to discover the world of Emirati, providing fascinating perspectives into everything from food to clothes, all relayed by welcoming and informative workers.
Past few years have also seen a spike in the number of activities in Al Fahidi, including the Sikka Art Fair and the special National Day Celebrations.
To get here by public transport, take the metro and get off at Al Fahidi Metro Station. The area is a 10 to 12-minute walk away. Visiting Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood is free.
Hatta Heritage Village
Next to our list of historical sites around Dubai is the Hatta Heritage Settlement. The Hatta region is a Dubai region located about an hour from the centre of town. The town is located at the Hajar Mountains foot and is home to the centuries-old Hatta Heritage Village. The village is a secret box of Emirati culture with so much to be experienced and appreciated by tourists.
Hatta Heritage Village and its nearby areas are a natural paradise with soothing greenery, stunning mountain views, date palm fields and the breathtaking Hatta Dam constructed in the late 1990s. You will also appreciate kayaking and other water activities at the Hatta Dam. Without question, this entire city is one of the greatest historical places to visit in Dubai.
Like several other village sites in the UAE, the Hatta Heritage Village is home to a conventional water irrigation scheme named Falaj, which is highly helpful to farming. Farming has been prevalent in the Hatta district for centuries and continues to be the main source of economic income, with over 550 farms spread over 140 square metres. It’s km of land.
Sheikh Saeed Maktoum House
The Sheik Saeed Al Maktoum House is on the Deira side of the Dubai Creek and was initially created in 1896. It has been the official residence of the royal dynasty for more than sixty years. Touring this historic place in Dubai is a wonderful and interesting way to learn how they lived. It may be said that this is a true time machine!
The number of unusual spaces in the house and the array of wind towers are interesting to see. Important argument – the house was intentionally constructed in other houses’ vicinity to promote accessibility between the citizens and their rulers.
Souk Al Kabeer- Dubai Creek
Souq Al Kabeer is split into many smaller souqs, each devoted to particular goods, including food pieces, women’s cosmetics, home decor, garments, marine equipment, perfumes and more. This market in Dubai Creek is one of the oldest markets in the Emirates. It provides a genuinely special experience to its guests—a labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with the region’s typical commercial offerings. The souq is more than 150 years old. It used to be a central trading centre for imports and exports between East Asia, Africa and the Gulf region.
Al Ahmadiya School
Al Ahmadiya, the first national school, founded in Dubai, brings you back to the beginning of schooling. Founded in 1912 by one of the most influential pearl merchants in the Gulf, the school has many influential intellectuals and academics among its alumni. Since the school ceased to function in 1958, it remained dormant until 1994, when the government restored it and re-opened it as a museum.
These are some of the most popular historical places you would like to visit when you buy villa in Dubai. Get your villa today, and get familiar with the history of Dubai!