Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, also known as Al Bastakiya, is one of the few parts of old Dubai left standing. Narrow lanes run between restored houses built of coral stone and gypsum, many topped with barjeel wind towers that once cooled the rooms below.
Today many of the houses hold small museums, art galleries, cafes and shops. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding runs its cultural meals and talks from a house here. The lanes are free to wander, while individual venues set their own hours and fees.
Come in the morning or late afternoon when the lanes are cooler. The area sits close to the Bur Dubai souk and the abra stations on Dubai Creek, so it is easy to fold into a half day in old Dubai.
- Address: Al Fahidi, Bur Dubai, Dubai
- How to Reach: Dubai Metro Green Line to Al Fahidi station, then a short walk toward the Creek. Bur Dubai Abra Station is close by, so it pairs well with an abra crossing to Deira.
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