Dubai endlessly pursues world records and over-the-top opulence, but even in the shadow of the world’s tallest building and beyond the shimmer of the infinity pool, an authentic city is ready and waiting to be explored, away from the glare of the largest, tallest, and longest.
Life in this part of the Arabian Peninsula was nomadic for centuries, transitioning between the coast and the desert with the seasons, leaving only indentations in the sand from goat-hair tents. The oldest building in Dubai dates back to 1787, with most structures in the city’s historic districts emerging in the 20th century – not a land of ancient tombs or Crusader-era castles.
Instead, the culture here blossoms from Bedouin generosity, curiosity, and openness. As this previously intangible culture has taken root, visitors can now experience the depth of its traditions.
Get to Know the Emirati Lifestyle at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
Emiratis constitute only about 10% of the population of the United Arab Emirates. Events run by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) enlighten visitors and expats about local culture, dress, and customs. Most of the Centre’s activities incorporate an engaging question-and-answer session where no topic is off-limits. Some events even include a visit to Diwan Mosque, focusing on prayer rituals and significant architectural features. SMCCU also hosts traditional dinners, including iftar (the evening meal that breaks the fast during Ramadan), featuring silver platters piled high with machboos (lamb and rice flavored with fragrant cloves and cardamom) and fareed (a stew of soft-boiled meat and vegetables served with thick layers of bread).
Wander the Backstreets of Old Dubai in Al Fahidi Historic District
Leave the car behind and immerse yourself in the narrow lanes and heritage coral-hewn buildings of Al Fahidi Historic District, a rarity in Dubai. Hidden among the sand-colored structures, discover cafes, museums, art galleries, and even a few boutique hotels if you prefer to make old Dubai your base. This area is especially atmospheric after dark, and while Al Fahidi is best appreciated through aimless wandering, guided tours with SMCCU can provide valuable insights.
Enjoy Art from the Middle East and Beyond at Alserkal Avenue
The misnamed Alserkal Avenue is, in fact, an entire complex set within a former marble factory, now home to vast warehouses filled with provocative contemporary art from the UAE and surrounding regions. Galleries like Ayyam and Third Line showcase rotating exhibitions year-round, ensuring a steady flow of cultural activity. This vibrant arts district also features cafes, a bean-to-bar chocolate factory named Mirzam, and a small museum of retro cars, blending art with the eclectic spirit of Dubai.
Cross Dubai Creek on an Abra
Although it lasts less than five minutes, riding an abra, a traditional wooden boat, is the most charming and economical way to traverse Dubai Creek. As the abra sails across, you can take in the stunning architecture of Dubai, from modern glass towers to historic coral and stone buildings with barjeel, wind towers that offer a natural cooling solution. If you relish the scene, consider resting in one of the waterside cafes to enjoy a coffee while watching the lively traffic on the Creek or even chartering a whole abra for Dhs100 per hour.
Rummage Through Dubai’s Souqs
Sharpen your bargaining skills and explore the winding markets of Bur Dubai and Deira. Here, you will find intricately designed 24-karat-gold jewelry at the Gold Souq, alongside aromatic cardamom, Iranian saffron, and solid strips of menthol at the Spice Souq. The oldest market in Dubai features the Textile Souq, where you can browse a colorful selection of reasonably priced fabrics before having them tailored to your specifications.
Strap in for a Desert Safari
Beyond the city limits and clearly visible from the towering observation deck of the Burj Khalifa are endless camel-colored sand dunes stretching out in every direction. Escaping into the desert and sampling Bedouin life is essential for any Dubai itinerary, not just for the thrill of gliding over the dunes but to understand the lifestyle found within the sands. While Dubai boasts a growing array of amusement parks, an exhilarating way to experience an adrenaline rush is by riding in a gleaming Land Rover, conquering the desert’s roller coaster-like dunes. Afterward, you can return to a desert camp to enjoy dates, Arabic coffee, and a traditional Bedouin-style meal, followed by hookah and henna. Numerous companies in Dubai offer desert expeditions, but joining a tour with Intrepid ensures you’ll be part of a small group led by an experienced local.
First published in August 2017
