| Attractions
The
Dubai Museum
353-1862
8:30am-8:30pm Sat-Thurs. 3-9 Friday
Admission charged.
Bus 19
English and Arabic descriptions on all displays.
Al-Fahidi Fort, built in 1800, is home to the Dubai Museum,
and is thought to be Dubai's oldest building. In the past
the fort was used to defend the town from warlike neighboring
tribes. The walls of the fort are built from coral and
shell rubble from the sea, and are cemented together with
lime. Wooden poles called handel support the upper floor,
and the ceiling is made of palm fronds, mud and plaster.
Inside, a large section is devoted to musical instruments,
with displays of drums, flutes, lyres, bagpipes made of
goatskin and other locally-made instruments used in performances
on festive occasions. There is also a re-creation of a
typical home and school of the 1950's. Additionally, there
is an interactive display of the flora and fauna of the
UAE, and findings from the archeological sites (950-550
BC).
Narish
Khyma
Situated close to the Museum, is a typical Arab summer-house,
with an interesting collection of local boats. These include
a replica of the famous abra -- the ferry boats used for
transporting passengers across Dubai's river creek.
Dubai
Creek:
Dubai's waterfront epitomizes the city's personality.
The best way to see the trading port is from the water.
You can book a cruise or hire an abra (small boat); ask
the captain to take you to Al-Maktoum bridge and back.
Also take time to walk around the dhow wharfage on the
Deira side of Dubai Creek, to the west of the abra dock.
Dhows bound for ports from Kuwait to Bombay dock there
to unload .
Grand
Mosque:
The Grand Mosque in Bur Dubai is home to the city's tallest
minaret. It was built in the 1990s in the style of the
Grand Mosque, which dated from 1900 but was demolished
to make way for another mosque in 1960. The new Grand
Mosque's sand-colored walls and wooden shutters blend
perfectly with the surrounding old quarter of Bur Dubai.
Jumeira Mosque, is known for its size and elaborate design.
The best time to see it is at night, when it is spectacularly
lit up.
The
stunning Iranian Mosque has incredibly detailed blue mosaic
work typical of Persian building design. Non-Muslims are
not allowed to enter mosques in the UAE. Next door, the
Heritage and Diving Villages have displays on pearl diving
and dhow building, two of old Dubai's economic mainstays.
Another area re-creates traditional Bedouin and coastal
village life, complete with barasti (Persian) homes, a
traditional coffeehouse and a small souq where you can
buy freshly made dosa (a flat, grilled bread). A museum
with items from nearby archaeological sites is also interesting.
Jumeira
Archaeological Site:
The largest and perhaps most significant archaeological
site in the UAE, Jumeira dates to the 6th century AD.
The settlement is particularly interesting because it
straddles the pre-Islamic and Islamic eras. Today surrounded
by shopping centers plying the spoils of modern-day Dubai's
trade, this settlement was once a caravan station along
a trade route linking Iraq to northern Oman. Excavations
have unearthed a series of stone walls that surrounded
a seven-shop souq and a storage facility. Several homes,
what is believed to be a governor's palace and several
other structures that keep the archaeologists guessing
can be viewed from behind a fence. If someone is working,
you may be able to talk your way in. Relics, including
glazed pottery, copper and iron items, glassware and coins,
are on display at the museum for the Heritage and Diving
Villages.
Jumeira
Beach Park:
This lovely park fronts Jumeira Beach and a walk on the
grass, irrigated at great public expense, is a real treat.
There is a children's play area, barbecue pits, picnic
tables, walkways and kiosks. The long stretch of beach
is clean and lined with shady palm trees. Lifeguards are
on duty here. The park is usually open to all, but Saturday
and Monday are reserved for women and children only. This
is a good option for women who are hoping for a vacation
tan, but don't want to pay a small fortune at a hotel
beach club or put up with the male attention they might
get at a public beach.
Dhow
Ship Building Yard:
On Dubai Creek waterfront about 1km south of Al-Gharhoud
Bridge in the Jaddaf district, there's a marina where
monstrous dhows are built in the traditional style. This
means that the planks are curved and placed one on top
of the other, and then the frame was fitted on the inside
(in the West, this is generally done the other way around).
They're built by hand using basic tools and resilient
teak and shesham woods, and are incredibly sturdy. One
concession to modern shipbuilding is adding an engine
in addition to (or instead of) traditional sails.
Hatta
Rock Pools:
Hatta, an enclave of Dubai nestled in the Hajar Mountains,
is a great weekend getaway. The main attractions are its
relatively cool, dry climate, the mountain scenery, and
the magnificent Hatta rock pools. It's an amazing experience
to swim through the narrow rock corridors of this miniature
canyon, roaring year-round with plunging waterfalls.
Dubai
Zoo:
Summer: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Winter:10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Tuesdays: Closed.
Located in Jumeirah opposite Jumeirah beach. It is surrounded
by lush green trees and is the greenest spot in the suburb.
The entrance is from the Jumeirah road. Ample car parking
is available both in the front and rear side of the Zoo.
It covers a total area of 1.75 hectares providing spacious
habitats for its occupants. Mammals: There are nearly
248 different mammals. Gorilla, Foxes, Hyenas, Pumas,
Lions, Jaguars, Chimpanzees, Baboons, Monkeys, Deer, Bears,
Porcupines, Giraffes and Sheep are some of the mammals
in the Zoo. Birds: These feathered friends range from
tiny budgerigars to tall ostriches, golden eagles to parrots.
Reptiles: almost 403 reptilian specimens are exhibited
for the visitors. Endangered Species: the Zoo also protects
and conserves endangered animals including Barbary-Sheep,
Waterbucks, Siberian and Bengal Tigers, Arabian Wolves
and Wild Cats
Creek
Park:
Weekdays: 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Thursdays, Fridays and Holidays: 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Wednesdays: Ladies and Children only.
This modern and beautiful green park is situated on the
west shore of Dubai's historical focal point, Dubai Creek.
This park extends for 2.6 km between Al Maktoum and Al
Garhoud bridges covering a total area of 96 hectares.
A variety of facilities for children and adults are available.
The highlights are a complete golf course, children's
games area. The park also has 14 picnic areas and a large
amphitheater that can accommodate 5000 people providing
great joy to visitors.
Safa
Park:
Weekdays: 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Thursdays, Fridays and Holidays: 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Tuesdays: Ladies and Children only
On the Dubai-Abu Dhabi highway near the second interchange,
this park is one of the premier recreational spots of
Dubai. Rectangular in shape and easily accessible, this
park covers a total area of 64 hectares. The park has
an air-conditioned hall containing electronic games. There
are restaurants and a playground for children. The park
also has many other outdoor sports activities like football,
volleyball, basketball, tennis and a modern track for
running or jogging. Ladies and children can enjoy exclusive
privacy in a special garden reserved for them. Children
love the maze and the games provided. The 21 covered barbecue
sites and benches makes the setting complete with fun,
games and food.
Jumeirah
Beach Park:
Weekdays: 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Thursdays and Public Holidays: 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Saturdays and Sundays: Ladies and Children only.
Located in Jumeirah, along the sea shore bordering the
Indian Ocean. The park extends over a total area of 13
hectares. The park attracts all ages because of its ideal
location and variety of recreational activities, particularly
during the summer. There are special areas designated
for picnics, and the beautiful surroundings provide for
relaxing and enjoyable meals. The park also has an Amphitheater
which offers dramatic and musical entertainment. The Children's
Playground is ideal for children of all ages. There are
also volleyball courts.
Al
Mamzar Beach Park:
Weekdays: 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Thursdays and Holidays: 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Wednesdays: Ladies and Children only.
Situated on the north-west coast of Dubai, to the north
of Al Hamriya port, the park extends over an area of 99
hectares making it one of the largest parks in Dubai.
The beach has modern lifeguard stations, changing rooms
and beach chalets. There are swimming pools and a children's
playground. There are also numerous picnic areas with
grills, chairs and umbrellas. The large Amphitheater hosts
evening programs. An observation tower offers a scenic
view of the whole park.
Shaikh
Saeed Al-Maktoum House:
On Al-Shindagha road in Bur Dubai.
7:30am-9:30pm Sat-Thurs. 3-9:30pm Friday.
Admission charged.
This imposing building distinguished by its four-elegant
wind-towers, stands along the famous Creek of Bur Dubai.
It was built in 1896 and was the residence of the grandfather
of the present ruler. Shaikh Saeed house is built around
a large courtyard in the style of residences of the olden
days, in phases, over a number of years. It is partly
single, and partly two-storied, comprising a large number
of rooms, verandas and bathrooms, divided into independent
family units.. The building is now illuminated in the
night with floodlights, and stands as a reminder of Dubai's
rich architectural heritage and culture. The house has
been converted into a museum of Historical Photographs
and documents of the Emirate of Dubai.
Al
Bastakia Area:
Bus 19
Al Bastakia Area in Bur Dubai dates back to the early
1900s, and occupies the eastern section of the old town
along the Creek, extending in a southerly direction. These
houses were once the homes of wealthy Persian merchants.
Most came from te Bastak District in southern Iran. The
area has always fascinated visitors to Dubai and artists,
who are impressed by the elegant wind-towers, gypsum decorations
and woodwork, and the lanes that meander through the district.
The wind towers provided relief from the desert sun and
high humidity.
Al
Ahmadiya School:
Take the bus to the Public Library and walk the short
distance to the museum.
Al Ahmadiya School was established by the late Shaikh
Ahmed bin Dalmouk, for whom the school was named, in 1912.
It was the earliest regular school in the Emirate of Dubai
where instruction was given by some of the leading teachers
of the day, and many distinguished scholars and dignitaries
received their education. The school is located in the
center of the residential Al Rass area of Deira, which
was a convenient location for the children of the elite,
and traders, who resided there. The school has been restored
to its original structure and has been converted to a
Museum of Education. It opened on March 7, 2000.
Shopping:
Souqs
of Deira
Souqs, Arabic open-air markets, have long been part of
Dubai society. They open for business in the early morning
and between 5 and 8pm. The Deira Covered Souq offers textiles,
spices, kitchen wares, clothes and henna (used by Arab
women to mark the hands and feet with painted patterns).
The Spice Souq, also known as the Deira Old Souq sells
trinkets, clothing, rugs and glassware. The overflowing
bags of seasonings are concentrated at the eastern end,
closest to Dubai Creek. Gold Souq, with its intricate
wooden lattice archway and windows filled with glittering
gold, attracts buyers from throughout the world. Any type
of gold jewelry, in any color can be yours for a price.
The Perfume Souq, with European designer fragrances and
strong, spicy Arabic scents. The Electronics Souq sells
discounted electronic items. The Dubai Souq, in Bur Dubai,
has been beautifully rebuilt to appeal to tourists, but
sells mostly items appreciated by the Indo-Pakistani expatriate
community.
The
Shopping Malls In Dubai
Bur
Juman Centre
Close to the Trade Centre Road and Bank Street.
Weekdays- 10 am - 10pm; Friday - 1pm to 10 pm
Three shopping levels of boutiques and shops offering
a handsome choice of designer products. Even better is
the elegant Food Court on the top level, where you can
rest your tired feet after hours of shopping. Go for the
fast food or an elaborate meal or if you'd like to stop
at coffee or an ice cream cone, they are available too.
Lamcy
Plaza
Opposite American Hospital
Saturday to Wednesday- 10 am to 10 pm;
Thursday & Friday- 10 am to 10.30 pm;
Food Court and Food Hall open until midnight.
Big stuffed birds move around to amuse children. There's
an electronic clown who goes up and down a pole and Spider
man climbing up a wall. Designer clothes, women's wear,
jewelry, gifts, books, music, etc.The Food Court on the
ground level serves delicacies from 17 countries around
the world. Movie theater also.
Wafi
Shopping Mall
Off Oud Metha Road, near Dubai Electricity and Water Authority
building.
10 am to 10 pm
Wafi in Arabic literally means "to satisfy everything
you want." For a more upmarket clientele, this extended
mall has a comprehensive range of Europeans brand names
at its boutiques and shops. The immense entertainment
arcades keep everyone enthralled.
Al
Ghurair Retail City
Location : Al Riqqa Street
10 am to midnight; Friday mornings closed.
One of the oldest malls in Dubai, this large complex has
been totally renovated and revamped and renamed as the
Al Ghurair Retail City. You will find more than 100 upmarket
stores including supermarkets, audio and video entertainment,
perfumes, electronics, appliances, books, stationery,
clothing and luggage stores. Fast Food outlets and ice
cream parlours are spread throughout the mall. A multi-level
car park building is next to the Retail City.
Deira
City Centre:
Opposite the Creek Golf and Yacht Club on Beniyas Road.
Weekdays- 10 am to midnight; Friday - 2 pm to midnight.
At the Deira City Centre, the crowds are there every day
of the week. It's main attraction is Carrefour (formerly
Continent), the mall's hypermarket and IKEA, the comprehensive
furniture store. At Carrefour, there is always a sale.
The
mall also houses leading names in fashion. Spread over
two shopping floors, it offers covered parking for 2,000
cars. Cavernous anchor stores stock a vast range of furniture,
furnishings, clothing, cosmetics, perfumes and shoes.
A number of specialty stores deal in DIY, mobile phones,
watches, sports gear and gifts. A vast entertainment complex
offers the latest video games, mini golf, and even a train
ride.
Hamarain
Centre
Abu Baker Al Siddique Road
Weekdays- 10 am to 10 pm
Friday - 4.30 pm to 10 pm
Home to leading brand names in fashion, perfumes, cosmetics,
jewelry, eye wear, sports goods and casual wear, the mall
has an exclusive ambience. It also has a food court that
offers a wide range of delectable Arabic, Chinese, Indian,
Lebanese and Thai cuisine.
Al
Mulla Plaza
Al Ghusais
Weekdays- 10 am to 10 pm
Friday - 4.30 pm to 10 pm
At the Al Mulla Plaza, there's always a fair that offers
clothes and other goodies at amazing discounts. This is
where you are likely to discover those interesting odds
and ends that you simply cannot find at malls that offer
only exclusive leading brand names. At the Al Mulla Plaza,
you will also find book shops that sell only Arabic literature.
A mall frequented by the local crowd.
Al
Bustan Centre
Location- Al Ghusais
Weekdays- 10 am to 10 pm
Friday - 4.30 pm to 10 pm
A favorite among both locals and foreigners, Al Bustan
Centre again has several boutiques and shops that sell
leading brands. There is, however, one place at the Al
Bustan that is never empty and where you'll probably have
to queue up. Fantasy Kingdom pampers your child and no
parent would pass up an opportunity to take their child
to this treat on a Friday evening.
The
Oasis Centre
Location- Sheikh Zayed Road
Weekdays- 10 am to 10 pm
Friday - 2 pm to 10 pm
The Oasis Center on Sheikh Zayed Road was launched in
April 1999 with a built area of 320,000 sq ft. The Centre
is home for popular outlets such as Baby Shop, Home Center,
Splash, Shoe Mart, Lifestyle, MFI and a newly opened 25,000
sq ft supermarket. Shopping at the Oasis Center is all
about value for money with a wide range of quality products
available at reasonable prices. The Oasis Center also
caters to the need of The Mall has Fun City; a family
entertainment center spread over 10,000 sq ft that offers
the latest rides and games. There is a constant effort
to ensure that the mall always maintains a very high standard
of cleanliness.
Lulu
Hyper Market
Location- Al Ghusais
Weekdays- 10 am to 10 pm
Friday - 2 pm to 10 pm
Opened recently, Lulu Hypermarket has become a big hit
with shoppers. |