Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood حي الفهيدي التاريخي

Restored wind-tower houses, art galleries and small museums in old Bur Dubai.

Also known as Al Bastakiya, this quarter of narrow lanes and coral-stone houses was built by merchants in the early 20th century. The tall wind towers on the roofs were an early form of air-conditioning.

Wander freely through the alleys, then step into a few of the courtyards: small museums (including a coffee museum), galleries, cafés and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, which hosts Emirati breakfasts and lunches.

Booking advice

No booking needed. Book the cultural meal at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in advance if you want to join one.

Insider tips

• Come in the morning or late afternoon; the lanes are shaded but the courtyards get hot at midday.
• Continue to the textile souk and the abra station: it is a natural walking route.
• The Arabian Tea House café is a pleasant courtyard stop for lunch or mint lemonade.

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