The government of Dubai is suddenly very afraid that in the rush to modernize they are destroying their history. Probably true based on what we saw. But they have managed to salvage s small area near Dubai Creek and across from the Gold Souk called the Bastakiya Quarter.
In Bastakiya you will find reconstructed traditional Emirati buildings that used to be found in Dubai before they knocked every one of them down to make way for progress.
Narrow alleyways lead you to shops opened by artisans that sell original art, rugs, spices, and some carried trinkets for tourists. Here is a rugmaker.
Some shops sold a variety of things like Arabic coffee urns and olive soap from Syria.
And yes, more spices but without the haggling.
Bastakiya turned out to be our favorite stop in Dubai, although a pretty short one. Not much to do beyond 45-60 minutes, although it is very picturesque.
We had a little trouble finding this place. Our driver had never heard of it and several locals he asked had never heard of it either. It’s very near to the Dubai Museum and the Al Fahidi Roundabout across Dubai Creek from the Gold Souk. There is no admission, open most days.
1 comment
Fabulous ! Well worth the stop in my blog following opinion!
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