The Dubai Creek does not often make it on many tourists’ bucket list when they visit this city. Forgetting to include it, however, can be a huge mistake since this iconic waterway and the area surrounding it offers a lot of great scenery and fun activities that everyone will enjoy.
Below are the six things you have to do while you while you are in the Dubai Creek area:
1. Go on a dinner cruise
A holiday in Dubai means indulging in some luxuries, and one of the best things you can do to experience this is to go on a Dubai Creek dinner cruise.
When you choose the right tour operator, you will enjoy a cruise along the Dubai Creek aboard a modern, fully air-conditioned, and glass-enclosed vessel. As such, you will be able to take in all the beautiful sights Dubai has to offer while feeling cool and comfortable inside a modern yacht.
In addition, you will indulge in a four-course gourmet meal come dinner time while still enjoying unimpeded views of all the wonderful scenery you will be passing by.
2. Drop by Al Fahidi
The Al Fahidi Historical District is one of the oldest heritage sites in Dubai. It is also home to the last wind tower quarter found on the Arab side of the Gulf.
The district boasts old buildings that have been converted into art galleries, cafes, and clothing and jewelry shops.
At night, the district becomes one of the busiest hubs for entertainment. Hundreds of locals and tourists flock to the area to experience the Dubai nightlife and enjoy the live performances.
The evening also draws in more shoppers which makes Al Fahidi a really busy place when the sun goes down.
3. Visit the Dubai Museum
The Dubai Museum is considered by many as the oldest building in Dubai. Built in 1787, it was formerly the old Al-Fahidi Fort which previously served time as a palace, garrison, and prison.
Today, the museum is home to various important archaeological finds. There are several galleries showcasing the traditional Emirati life in Dubai. From customary Arab houses, souks, and mosques to date farms and desert life, you will have a glimpse of historic Dubai at its finest.
The museum also has a section dedicated to the rich history of pearl diving in Dubai. In addition, there is a fascinating display of aerial photos documenting Dubai’s growth from the 1950s and an interesting multimedia presentation showcasing the city’s progress through the years.
4. Visit the souks
You will find two of the oldest souks in Dubai near the Dubai Creek: the Spice Souk and the Gold Souk.
At the old Spice Souk, you will come across a variety of spices and herbs. You will find the usual spices which you use for cooking as well as unique and exotic spices and herbs which you may be bold enough to try.
If you want to splurge on shiny trinkets, head to the Gold Souk. In this market, you will find numerous shops selling various ornaments made of 22 and 24-carat gold.
Whether you are looking for — a necklace, bracelet, earrings, or even an engagement or wedding ring, you will find what you’re looking for without worrying about going over your budget.
5. Shop at the Meena Bazaar
The Meena Bazaar is one of Dubai’s most popular shopping spots for interesting yet cheap finds. It is a busy market where you will find a variety of traditional textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. The market is also a popular destination for shoppers looking for furniture and ceramics.
You will also find a lot of shops selling Indian materials, clothes, and street food here. A big plus for people coming here is the fantastic view they will get of the Dubai Creek while they shop.
6. Visit the Creekside
Lastly, the Creekside is a café and cultural space rolled into one. Located beside the Dubai Creek, the Creekside has outdoor seating with an unbeatable view of the creek, numerous traditional abras, seagulls, and other local birds.
The café is known for its contemporary Emirati dishes and beverages. When you visit the Creekside’s cultural area, you can sign up for different short art and culture-related subjects such as kiln-making and calligraphy.
Aside from putting some thought into choosing from among the excellent beachfront hotels in Dubai, take the time to create an itinerary for visiting the Dubai Creek. You won’t be disappointed when you spend a day or two in this world-famous waterway.
AUTHOR BIO
Thomas Grundner is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for JA Resorts & Hotels. He has more than 20 years of expertise in the hospitality and leisure industry – across international markets including Germany, Egypt and Spain. Grundner oversees all sales, marketing and revenue efforts as the company continues to build on its key growth and development strategies and further cultivates its unique blend of “Heartfelt Hospitality” and “Casual Luxury.”