Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Beautiful place full of charm and history. Walking through its narrow lanes feels like stepping back in time. The traditional architecture, art galleries, and cozy cafés create a peaceful and authentic atmosphere. A must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the cultural side of Dubai!

I loved the historical part of Old Dubai. The landscape, tastes, flavors and color are amazing. You can come in about 4 or 5 pm and the temperature will be good, go from Marina until the Burjuman Metro station (about 5 AED), and there walk or take a small ferry (it cost only 2 AED). The ferry option is good if you want to take a small trip and see the landscape of Dubai Creek that's beautiful. I definitely recommend this place

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood is a charming glimpse into Dubai’s past. The preserved wind-tower architecture and narrow alleyways feel authentic and peaceful. Museums and art galleries offer rich cultural experiences, especially the Coffee Museum. It’s a perfect escape from the city’s modern rush into a slower, simpler time. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates history, art, and tradition.

This heritage area resembles an old Dubai neighbourhood, with traditional-style mud houses topped with iconic wind towers (Barjeel). These Barjeels capture the wind to ventilate the house interior in hot desert climates. It’s hard to tell whether these structures are restorations or complete recreations, but they convincingly capture the charm and character of historical Dubai. The interiors are also thoughtfully arranged to reflect traditional living spaces, complete with period-appropriate details. In the "house of gathering" (Dar al Nadwa) they have recreated the classical furniture set up used to conduct such assemblies. Tourists are also offered traditional Dubai coffee as part of the experience.

A hidden gem in Dubai with beautiful traditional architecture and an old-world charm that’s hard to find elsewhere. Stroll through narrow lanes lined with shops selling cashmere shawls, spices, and souvenirs. The Coin Museum is small but surprisingly interesting—definitely worth a quick stop. There’s also a super Instagrammable courtyard outside—perfect for photos! Note: Some areas were closed for construction, so best to check ahead before visiting. Still, a great way to spend a couple of hours!

I thought it was a real shame that almost the entire neighborhood was under renovation, and you couldn't really see it all. Many paths and areas were closed off. I would have loved to explore otherwise. But what I was able to see was beautiful. I found it historically and culturally rich. Very different from modern Dubai. Here you can see how the "native Arabs" really lived in the past. It was still very interesting.

This is a beautiful historic quarter, rebuilt and well maintained. It's worth a day of wondering the safe, clean, and beautiful alleyways dotted with interesting attractions such as small museums, galleries, and shops. One can combine with a boat ride to the other side of the creek. Most of the restaurants or fast food we saw were not that appealing, we recommend the XVA art-hotel, it's in an inner courtyard, with an interesting local menu, while there check out the gallery, it's worth a visit.

This is the oldest part of Dubai; the neighbourhood has the oldest fort that was built in the 17th century but it was under renovation. Near the beach. There’re a couple of markets where you can bargain for gifts and clothing items. We tried the Arabian Tea House restaurant. Pretty good, comfortable place and very friendly waiters.