An amazing blend of traditional and modern cultures, the sparkling city of Dubai is one of the most memorable cities in the world. This dazzling destination astounds with its jaw-dropping architecture, fantastical activities, and incredible landmarks, and there is an overwhelming amount to see and do in this desert oasis. Start your trip with a visit to the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, or enjoy the beauty of Dubai’s stunning skyline from Jumeirah Beach, where turquoise waves lap against the golden sands. The Dubai Mall provides a shopping experience like no other and is even home to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, or you can embark on adrenaline-filled adventures at thrilling theme parks like Wild Wadi Waterpark, IMG Worlds of Adventure, or Ski Dubai! From man-made islands to glittering marinas, Dubai is a city that is filled with cutting-edge entertainment. Dubai isn’t all modern marvels though, and you can still visit unique landmarks of the city’s past! Read the list below for a roundup of historical places in Dubai, UAE.
1. Bastakiya Quarter
The Bastakiya Quarter, also referred to as Al Bastakiya, is a world away from the soaring skyscrapers that glitter in the downtown. Bastakiya Quarter dates back to the 18th century, and it is one of the oldest residential parts of Dubai, filled with winding, narrow alleyways and ornate architectural details like the wind towers that were once used to cool off the sun-drenched buildings. Inside this historic neighborhood are attractions like Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding where you can learn more about Emirati heritage, and the Al Fahidi Fort, a former defensive outpost that was built in 1787. The Bastakiya Quarter is also home to fantastic art galleries, boutique hotels, and delectable cafes, including the popular Arabian Tea House.
Bastakiya Quarter
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
2. Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood (from USD 81.42)
This private tour will take you to many of Dubai’s magnificent, historic landmarks! Your two-hour excursion begins in the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, which brims with brilliant architectural flair and museums, and you can delve into Dubai’s past as you explore Al Fahidi Courtyard Houses. After visits to the Coffee Museum, Coin Museum, and Dubai Museum, you can marvel at the breathtaking views as you cross the Dubai Creek on a traditional boat known as an abra. When you reach the Deira side of Dubai, prepare for a shopping experience unlike any other at the Spice Souk and the Gold Souk, where traders have been selling goods for centuries. The tour concludes at the Al Shindaga Watchtower, which was one of the three watchtowers used to guard Dubai.
Dubai: Private Old Town, Heritage & Souks Walking Tour
Duration: 2.0 hour
3. Al Fahidi Fort (from USD 34.0)
Trace the roots of Dubai from a small fishing village to a massive metropolis, and visit some of the city’s most renowned historic attractions on this fantastic tour. Your journey to Dubai’s past starts in the Bastakiya Quarter, where you will visit the oldest existing building in the city, Al Fahidi Fort. Built in 1787, the fort was once used as a defensive stronghold, before being converted into the brilliant Dubai Museum which documents and displays artifacts of Emirati history and heritage. After exploring the museum, your experienced guide will take you on a water taxi across the Dubai Creek where you will disembark to discover the Spice Souk. The tour is about four hours long, and it includes photo stops at renowned landmarks like Jumeirah Mosque.
Dubai 4-Hour Traditional City Tour
Duration: 4.0 hour
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4. Saruq Al-Hadid Archaeology Museum
Using modern technology to tell ancient history, this unique museum chronicles the account of the Iron Age in the Middle East. The museum highlights artifacts found from the Saruq Al-Hadid archaeological site, where a slag created from smelting iron was discovered, and it is filled with informative, interactive displays and exhibits. You can follow the discovery of history through a 3D cinematic experience, and enjoy an ever-changing rotation of artifacts and displays as new finds come in from the live excavation site! Opened in 2016, the museum is housed in the historic home of Sheikh Juma bin Maktoum Al Maktoum that was built in 1928, and it is nestled in the Shindagha Heritage District of Dubai
Saruq Al-Hadid Archaeology Museum
Website: Saruq Al-Hadid Archaeology Museum
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
Dubai Tour Guide
Sandra Guia Dubai Calvo
I'm an enthusiastic tour guide passionate about Dubai. With me, you will not only get a guided tour, but an unforgettable experience full of fascinating stories and deep knowledge of local history. Whether we are walking the streets of the old Dubai or enjoying the stunning beauty of the skyscraper , I guarantee you a unique and enriching experience. My goal is to make your experience memorabl... Read more
Dubai Tour Guide
Azira Oussama
Hello, I am Oussama, a licensed tour guide in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. I organize tours in Dubai and Abu Dhabi so you can experience modern and old life of this developed country and witness some of culture while exploring this great place.I also offer airport pick-up and drop-off from Dubai Airport. I am doing tours in English, French and Spanish.
Tours by Azira
Dubai Tour Guide
Claudia Antunes
Hello ! or Marhaba as we say here! I'm deeply passionate about the history and vibrant culture of Dubai's old city, and I'm thrilled to share this enchanting journey with you. Step back in time with me as we wander through the winding streets, uncovering hidden gems and untold stories. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking an authentic experience, my walking tou... Read more
5. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House (from USD 785.52)
Revel in the luxury of a private excursion across the city of Dubai. This incredible six-hour tour is the best way to discover the historic architecture and cultural heritage of the city, and it includes a personal driver and guide. After being picked up from your hotel, you will start your tour among the coral-clad houses of the historic Al Shindagha neighborhood, before continuing to the Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, a former residence of the grandfather of the present ruler of Dubai. The tour continues with cocktails in the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, followed by a tour of the canals on a traditional abra water taxi. Then it’s on to the Dubai Marina, where you can stroll along the boardwalk of the world’s largest man-made marina and admire the glistening yachts. The tour concludes atop the Burj Khalifa where you can enjoy a gold-sprinkled cappuccino against the backdrop of the glimmering Dubai skyline.
Dubai Highlights Private VIP Tour
Duration: 6 hour
6. Al Ahmadiya School
The Al Ahmadiya School is a wonderful landmark to Dubai’s education heritage. Located near the Gold Souk, this institution dates back to the 1890s when it was the former residence of a wealthy pearl merchant. When the school was established in 1912, it was the first of its kind in the city, but the building was converted into a museum of education in 1995. The exhibits are filled with dioramas and videos that showcase traditional Emirati life, as well as the development of the education system in the country throughout the 20th century. The museum also houses sample classrooms filled with learning tools, writing materials, and examples of the curricular.
Al Ahmadiya School
Website: Al Ahmadiya School
Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 8am - 7:30pm; Fri: 2:30pm - 7:30pm
Price: Free
7. Wall of Old Dubai
Located within the historic area of Bastakiya Quarter, the Wall of Old Dubai is one of the oldest constructions of the area and it is estimated to have been constructed around 1800 AD. Once used as a division between the settlement and other parts of the UAE, the ramparts wind around the Old Town, encompassing the Grand Mosque and the Al Fahidi Fort. Like many of the other buildings in the neighborhood, the wall is constructed out of coral and gypsum. About 13 feet (4 m) of the wall remains in its original state, although the wall once measured at approximately 1969 feet (600 m) long before a large portion was destroyed at the beginning of the 20th century.
Wall of Old Dubai
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. Jumeirah Mosque (from USD 52.0)
This incredible tour is a sightseeing extravaganza across Dubai that takes you past some of the city’s remarkable historic attractions. On this half-day tour, an experienced guide will lead you through the city’s traditional neighborhoods, where you can admire architectural elements like the historic wind towers that dot the Bastakiya Quarter. From the fascinating Dubai Museum to the Gold and Spice souks across the Dubai Creek, discover the city’s rich heritage. The tour also includes a visit to Jumeirah Mosque, a beautiful building designed in the medieval Fatimid tradition.
Traditional Dubai Half-Day City Tour
Duration: 4 hour
Discover the historical heritage of dazzling Dubai
With some of the world’s most amazing entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences, Dubai is a city of unparalleled excitement. The sheer amount of stunning attractions to see and do is staggering, but visitors should also take time to visit the historical places in the city. Getting to know Dubai’s past makes its present even more breathtaking. From ancient architecture to modern museums, this list of tours and attractions is a great way to discover the heritage of the city. Start planning your trip today, and add these historical places in Dubai to your trip itinerary!
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