Attractions

Dubai developed along the banks of the Creek, which was a busy trade area and focal point for the City. This area remains a main centre of activity today. The sights here show off the contrasts between old and new, and traditional and modern, that Dubai is famous for.

Although Dubai is a bustling modern City, an on-going effort is being made to preserve and restore the traditional Arabic heritage. The City has various attractions and offers a wonderful insight into the past.

Things to see and do have been split into three areas – Deira, BurDubai (each on a different side of the Creek) and Jumeira (the coastal area south of the City).

There are three main crossing points over the Creek – Al Shindagha Tunnel nearest the sea, then the Maktoum Bridge and further inland, the Garhoud Bridge. There’s also a pedestrian foot tunnel near the Al Shindagha Tunnel. However, a more interesting way of crossing the Creek is by water taxi or “abra”. It takes about 10 minutes to cross on one of these little wooden, motorised boats, and costs just 50 Fils (about 8p!!). From personal experience, you just jump on the boat and grab a space on the wooden seat, and then enjoy the crossing, which is quite lovely at night, with all the lights on the Creek. You can hop on and off at the Dhow Wharfage area of the Deira side, or the Al Seef Road area on the BurDubai side. The steps down to the Creek can be steep, so be careful when stepping across to your boat.

Abra seat about 30 people and are used as a convenient and cheap method of transport.

For the more luxurious tour of the Creek, go on an organised boat trip. Prices per adult range from Dhs 35 for a quick tour to Dhs 260 for an evening cruise with dinner.

Dubai Museum

This is no stuffy museum and is well worth a visit, even if museums aren’t your scene. Built in 1878 for sea defences and as a residence of the Ruler of Dubai, Al Faheidi Fort was renovated in 1970 to house the museum. The site has been expanded to include a large area under the courtyard of the old fort.

Everything is represented in a highly creative way: spy on a typical bride representation scene, step off a dhow offloading its wares, enter a souk from the 1950’s and walk through a labyrinth of shops… you can even discover an Islamic school. Then enter the world of an oasis, a tribute to the sea and archaeology finds of the area. Tour guides are available and there is also a restaurant and children’s playground – highly recommended. Entrance fee – adults Dhs 3, children under 10 Dhs 1.

Deira

Take a stroll along the Creek waterfront to experience the hustle and bustle of wooden dhows unloading their cargos. You will be amazed at how piles of goods are left trustingly on the wharfage, and also at the sheer range of things being off-loaded from each vessel. This is a great visual treat and an excellent photo opportunity!

Fish Market

It may be a little on the smelly side, but the fish market is worth a trip, even if you are just taking pictures. The variety of fresh fish is amazing and you will probably come across some species that you have never seen before (let alone eaten). The cleaning and gutting service is fascinating to watch, as is the animated bargaining that takes place between vendors and customers. The market has undergone a re-vamp in a bid to attract tourists. Beside a sea food restaurant, a museum explains the history of the fishing village that Dubai once was.

Jumeira Mosque

Probably the most striking Mosque in the City. The Jumeira Mosque was constructed with distinctive creamy-pink stone and is especially stunning at night when it is lit up. Normally, non-Moslems are not allowed to enter Mosques. However, in an attempt to bring down barriers and create a greater awareness of Islam, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for culture and understanding arranges organised visits to this unique building. The Mosque tour is easily one of the cultural highlights of a visit to Dubai.

Jumeira Beach Park

With azure seas, palm trees and long, narrow, shady stretches of beach, this is a popular park with plenty of grassy areas for all ages to run around on. Barbeque pits are available for public use, as well as volley ball areas for ball games. Life guards are on duty along the beach from 8am to sunset - swimming is not permitted after sunset. No adult bicycles or roller blades are allowed in the park. Entrance fee – Dhs 5 per adult and Dhs 20 per car. Saturdays are for women and children only.