When you’re in Dubai, you’ll certainly feel amazed by the way this city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has managed to keep its traditions and rich culture alive in its journey to becoming an ultra-modern global city. What was once a small trading post went through a major transformation after oil was discovered in this region during the 1960s. In recent times, Dubai has been focusing more on its tourism industry with some awe-inspiring construction projects. During your holidays to this Emirati city, you’ll come across several attractions that give you a glimpse of its history and rich culture.
Al Bastakiya is one such place you can explore during your cheap holidays to Dubai. It is also called the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and is immensely popular among tourists who are interested in knowing more about the history of this region. You can witness some old buildings and lanes that date back to the 19th century when this neighbourhood had only 60 homes with narrow lanes separating them. In the late 20th century, almost half of the Al Bastakiya neighbourhood was demolished in order to make way for the construction of a commercial complex. The plans for further demolitions were abandoned after Prince Charles suggested that the place be preserved as a symbol of the city’s history and culture.
Your Dubai holidays would also allow you to visit the Jumeirah Mosque, which has become a popular cultural icon of the city. Tourists can visit this mosque irrespective of their faith. You can benefit from one of the tours of this mosque run by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. There is a certain dress code that has to be followed by the women during this tour. You can know more about the Islamic faith with this tour and also have the opportunity to taste some of the traditional delicacies and drinks of the Arabs.
During your Dubai holidays, you can also get the chance to visit Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s official residence of the times when he ruled this region. In recent times, Dubai is ruled by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, his grandson. This historic building is located along the creek in the Al Shindagha area, the place where life started in this city for the first time. It was built in the late 19th century as the seat of the Al Maktoum family, but functions as a museum today with some interesting pictures and artefacts that remind visitors of old Dubai.
The Heritage Village is yet another fascinating attraction that you can visit while holidaying in this Emirati city. Constructed in the late 20th century, it is located in the Al Shindagha neighbourhood, which is near the Diving Village. It is the right place for all those who wish to know more about the traditional way of life in this city of the UAE. During your visit to the Heritage Village, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy the traditional dances and music of this region. Such performances are common during the period from October to March, which is a peak tourist season.
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