Bur Dubai: Dubai

Southwest of the Creek you'll find the other half of Dubai's business district, Dur Dubai. In Dubai's early years, this district was a large fishing village that generated revenue to feed the entire town. Here you will find many important monuments that testify to Dubai's rich history. The former palace of sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, built in 1896, is a must-see. It has been completely restored, allowing guests to examine the stunning Arab architecture first-hand. The Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort is also an important historical landmark. Learn about the history of Dubai through exhibitions of period pieces ranging from jewelry to pearl diving tools. The Heritage & Diving Village is another great place to discover Dubai's early days. Explore the components of an authentic fishing village and learn how men foraged for pearls and established Dubai's successful pearl industry. For a glimpse of Old Dubai, head to the old Bastakiya district. The narrow streets will remind you of days gone by and the old wind towers are the mark of Dubai. Before electricity, the wind towers brought air into the homes to help cool them. This district is being restored to show tourists the true old Dubai. Just outside the central city to the north is the neighboring emirate of Shariah. And to the west and south are the neighborhoods of Satwa, Jumeirah, and Umm Suqeim. © WCities