Bur Dubai

Bur Dubai is the most authentic part of Dubai. It’s separated from the traditional neighbourhood of Deira by the Creek canal, but is linked to this district by its old stories, unique customs, and ancient lore. Like Deira, it’s also dominated by bustling souks and offers a contrast with the city’s cutting-edge, affluent image.

Here you’ll find a myriad of small shops selling a variety of goods, mainly handicrafts and gifts, as well as stalls selling vegetables, spices, fruit and other everyday items, giving you a glimpse of everyday scenes of local life in Dubai. And just a stone’s throw from the most vibrant international districts.

Bur Dubai offers a landscape full of contrasts. There’s chaos and hustle and bustle, but also order and beauty. It’s divided into several areas, including Shindagha, the quieter part, the souk district, which is as bustling as Deira; Bastakia, that has an artsy vibe; Little India, the area where much of the Indian community resides; and Karama, where many Filipino workers live.

In this neighbourhood, visit the Dubai Museum to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the emirate’s capital. It’s housed in possibly the oldest building in Dubai, the 18th century Al-Fahidi Fort, the former seat of government and residence of rulers. Here you’ll see a traditional fishing boat, weapons, a “barasti” house with a wind tower and a complete tomb from Al-Qusais, along with artefacts found there and at Jumeirah.

Another must-see destination in Bur Dubai is the Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum House, now a museum, which was built in 1896. It houses an exhibition with photographs from the 1940s-60s taken at the Creek, along with commemorative stamps and coins and a model of Bur Dubai in the 1950s.

Travellers are also encouraged to slow down and enjoy the everyday scenes that pop up around every corner. The children, adults, and elderly of Bur Dubai also stop to chat and create memories worth remembering, with the typical buildings and their wooden doors as a backdrop.

But before leaving Bur Dubai, you must try some of the typical dishes of Arab Emirate cuisine in any of the many cafés in this historic quarter and take a ride on an abra, one of the traditional wooden boats that have been plying the waters of the canal for centuries.