Dubai, the city of skyscrapers and shopping extravaganzas, is often seen as a symbol of modernity and luxury. However, beyond its glitzy exterior lies a rich cultural heritage that is often overlooked by visitors. From its rich history and religious heritage to its maritime and trading past, the city has a wealth of cultural gems waiting to be discovered.
Join us as we embark on a journey through Dubai’s historic sites and landmarks and uncover the city’s cultural roots. There’s no finer way to immerse yourself in a city’s character than to journey like a native.
Our first stop is the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, a charming and historic district that dates back to the 1900s. This neighborhood offers a glimpse into Dubai’s past and is the perfect place to start our cultural adventure. The narrow winding streets, traditional wind towers, and historic homes transport us back in time, providing a fascinating contrast to the towering skyscrapers that dominate the city’s skyline.
As we stroll through the alleyways, we come across the Dubai Museum, a must-visit for anyone looking to learn about the city’s history and cultural heritage. This 200-year-old building was once a fort, and now houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that give us a glimpse into the desert city’s past.
Next up, we head to the Jumeirah Mosque, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of Islamic architecture in Dubai. The mosque’s stunning white marble and intricate carvings leave us in awe, and the guided tour offered by the mosque provides a wealth of information about Islam and the city’s religious heritage.
From here, we make our way to the historic district of Deira, where we visit the Old Souk. This bustling market, filled with vibrant spices, textiles, and traditional goods, is a feast for the senses. The souk provides a glimpse into Dubai’s rich trading history and is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s cultural heritage.
Our journey through Dubai’s cultural roots continues as we visit the Bastakiya Quarter, a restored neighborhood that once served as the city’s center for trade and commerce. The quarter is home to traditional wind towers, a courtyard, and narrow winding streets, providing a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely stroll. To all the social media mavens, don’t forget to capture that perfect shot for the ‘gram while we’re there.
We then make our way to Dubai Creek, a historic waterway that played a key role in the city’s development and was once the center of the pearl diving and trading industries. A traditional abra boat ride along the creek offers us a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and provides a glimpse into the city’s maritime heritage.
As our journey through Dubai’s cultural roots comes to an end, we visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, a non-profit organization that promotes cultural exchange and understanding. Here, we have the opportunity to learn about Emirati culture and customs and sample traditional Arabic cuisine in a traditional majlis setting.
How to get around Dubai
It’s no secret that Dubai is a playground for adventure-seekers and luxury lovers alike. With its towering skyscrapers, sprawling deserts, and pristine beaches, there’s no shortage of sights to see. So, how do you make the most of your time in this glimmering metropolis? The answer is simple: rent a car.
Picture this, you’ve just landed in Dubai, and you’re eager to hit the ground running. You step outside of the airport, and the heat hits you like a ton of bricks. But don’t worry, because, with a rental car, you’ll be able to beat the heat and breeze through the city with ease. You just gotta download the ekar app and follow a few easy steps to get access to a large variety of vehicles. From sedans to XUV choose the one that fits your pocket and fulfills your needs!
It’s the key to unlocking the city’s secrets and experiencing its wonders up close and personal. You’ll never have to rely on public transportation or expensive taxis again. With your own set of wheels, you’re the master of your own adventure.
ekar wants you to have a seamless experience in the middle east and has placed several ekars all over Dubai so you can access one wherever you are, no matter the neighborhood or district. If you’re short on time or need an immediate ride, ekar’s carsharing solutions will be your rescue.
So, pack your bags, grab the keys, and hit the road! You’re in for the ride of your life!
