Also known as Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Dubai, and it offers a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage. Known for its beautiful architecture, featuring traditional wind towers and narrow alleyways. Visitors can explore the historic houses, which have been restored to their original condition, and learn about the traditional building techniques used in the region. The neighborhood is also home to several art galleries and museums that showcase the local culture and history.
In the current face of Dubai, which stands tall with its skyscrapers and modern infrastructure, it is difficult to find the traces of old Dubai and get a sense of the city’s history. The Al Bastakia in Old Dubai is a historically significant neighborhood.
Also known as the Al Fahidi Historical District, as the neighborhood sheds light on the lifestyle of the people before the UAE was formed. If you want to know a side of Dubai that shows the state of the city before the glamour, oil magnates, and cloud-touching building were added to the landscape, take a trip to this old neighborhood. However, before you visit the Al Bastakia in Dubai, here is some basic information about this iconic neighborhood.
The Al Bastakiya history dates back to the time of the seafaring trade in Dubai when most of the trade business of Dubai grew out of the old neighborhood of Khor Dubai, which was also referred to as the creek, or Old Dubai. The neighborhood was built in the 19th century by Mr. Qasim Bin Abdullah Al Bastaki, and the construction was funded by rich textile and pearl merchants of Dubai.
Spread over an area of 300 square meters, what was once a dull, old neighborhood, today is a maze of age-old wonders that still hold true to the real essence of Old Dubai. Legend says that the area was up for a massive renovation and it was the visit from Prince Charles that stopped the demolishing of the neighborhood, as he said the place was too precious to be brought down.
The architecture is really unique and one-of-a-kind, taking inspiration from the many nations that inspired and helped build Dubai into the city that it is today. Islamic calligraphy adorning the walls of the buildings, Levantine decorations, the Aran Hijazi mashrabiyya and the North African style of courtyards are some of the different styles of architecture you will find in Bastakia in Old Dubai.