Al Bastakiya in Dubai - Things to do in Bastakiya

Al Bastakiya in Dubai - Things to do in Bastakiya

Al Bastakiya or Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood is currently one of the oldest traditional areas in Dubai. The area is situated along the Dubai Creek and reveals the city's past with its traditional buildings, winding streets, wind towers, and cultural sites. A visit to Al Bastakiya would undoubtedly be like traveling back in time, thus making the place an unmissable spot for everyone interested in history, photography, and those who want to feel the cultural heart of Dubai.

History of Al Bastakiya

Al Bastakiya, which was the name of an area, dates back to the late 1800s when it was first populated by Persian traders coming from Bastak, Iran, and they decided to settle in Dubai to make their trade.

The area quickly became a center of trade, and the rich merchants started to erect traditional houses with wind towers, which were a clever way to beat the harsh nature of the desert.

In the 70s and 80s, parts of Al Bastakiya were set to be demolished as part of the modern city plan, but the restorations succeeded in saving the area and keeping its cultural background alive.

Al Bastakiya is now a world heritage site that is open for visitors to see the past and the present at the same time through the modern cultural activities that are taking place.

Architecture & Design

The exquisite charm of Al Bastakiya is attributed to its Emirati traditional architecture:

• Wind Towers (Barjeel): Atypical cooling devices that were used prior to the advent of air conditioning.
• Narrow Lanes & Courtyards: Built to ensure shade and good ventilation.
• Sandstone and Coral Walls: Show the building techniques of the area.
• Historic Homes: Old merchants’ lodges are now exhibiting galleries, cafes, and cultural spaces.

The area is a photographer's paradise with its eternal setting of alleys, wooden doors, and the Arabic-style courtyards.

Main Attractions in Al Bastakiya

1. Dubai Museum & Cultural Spaces

Although the key Dubai Museum is in Al Fahidi Fort, which is close by, Al Bastakiya has already predominantly been occupied by art galleries, cultural exhibitions, and modern heritage museums, which are all exhibiting Dubai’s past and its various cultural aspects and traditions.

2. Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU)

Accommodates the Explorer Program, Arabic breakfast, and cultural dialogue.

Tourists are given the privilege to familiarize themselves with the Emirati customs, the local tongue, the religion, and the etiquette.

3. Art Galleries & Cafes

Al Bastakiya is no longer an area that only hosts heritage and culture, but also a modern metropolis of the latest art galleries, which consequently host contemporary art exhibitions.

Heritage cafes serve not only delicious Arabic coffee but also the traditional pairing of dates and desserts while the customers are surrounded by a historical atmosphere.

4. Heritage House Museum

Some of the restored homes represent the old Emirati lifestyle, showing the types of furniture and the art of handicrafts.

The guests can go back in time to the life of merchants in the 19th century.

5. Al Fahidi Fort & Dubai Creek

One can easily walk from Al Bastakiya, which is a way of having a good talk about Dubai’s shipping and trade history in the past.

Strolling by the creek, taking an abra trip, and going to the traditional markets are activities that are all very close to each other.

Fun Facts About Al Bastakiya

• The district’s wind towers are considered one of Dubai’s earliest forms of air conditioning.
• Many of the homes were originally trading houses for merchants dealing in gold, spices, and textiles.
• Al Bastakiya hosts seasonal cultural events, art exhibitions, and heritage festivals.

Why Visit Al Bastakiya

Al Bastakiya is an island of tranquility and a real cultural experience right in the heart of Dubai's modern skyscrapers. It is a destination where you can:

1. Go back in time and see the development of Dubai's history
2. Notice the fine and delicate art of traditional architecture and craftsmanship
3. Live the Emirati culture by means of tours, food, and art
4. Shoot fantastic photos in a heritage background

No matter if you are a person who loves history, an art-loving person, or a traveler with family, an extraordinary view of the past of Dubai is what Al Bastakiya has to offer.