Stroll through the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi to make a trip back in the past. Leaving the bustling concrete jungle you will see how Dubai looked like in the middle of the 19th century. This is a well-preserved part of the old town and is located on the shore of Dubai Creek. Marvel at traditional windmills built of stone, teak, gyps, palm, and sandalwood. Every street and every house is filled with a rich history, culture, and traditions of the emirate. Immerse yourself in the bygone life of Dubai. Meandering through the neighborhood’s streets you will find dozens of cultural landmarks, museums, art galleries, and traditional cuisine restaurants.

Visit the Dubai Museum to watch colorful dioramas and historic installations. The museum is situated in the historic building of Al Fahidi Fort, a fortress constructed in 1787 to defend Dubai against invaders. The oldest building in the city also housed sheiks residence, prison, and armament depots. In 1971 it was restored and now it houses the Dubai Museum. Here you can learn about the heritage of Dubai before the oil deposits were found. See restored traditional Arab houses, markets, date plantations, as well as sea and desert landscapes. Get to know about a pearl production.

Wander through the Hindi Lane to find a temple located at a narrow and colorful alleyway. It is full of vendors who offer different religious goods. Just a little off the main road and you are in another part of the world. Appreciate a unique Asian atmosphere imagining you are somewhere in India.

Feel an embarrassment of riches as you visit Textile Souk in the old town. You may look through the endless rolls of natural silk, cotton, and embroidered cloth. Find something that you’ve always been dreaming about amid this rich choice. Dubai Creek shores are filled with traditional oriental bazaars and each of them will give you an unforgettable experience. Every unit is unique here and will liven up your clothes.

Even if you aren’t going to buy gold, you should visit the Gold Souk. Be dazzled by the quality and quantity of the gold here. In the biggest gold market in the world, you will see jewelry and decorations with precious stones from Dubai, India, and other countries. The government closely regulates the quality of all goods to be sold, therefore you can be sure about their authenticity. Strolling through the glittering rows you will also find diamonds, pearls, platinum, and silver. Don’t hesitate to bargain, it is a part of a nice tradition.

All the principal bazaars are located on the shores of a saltwater Dubai Creek, which can be easily mistaken for a river. This is the main inner waterway of the city that for a long time was the only natural haven welcoming ships from India, Iran, Oman, and Eastern Africa. It is still filled with boats, ships, and water taxis, which transfer about 20,000 locals and tourists every day. Take a traditional boat across the Creek to admire beautiful views of the city from the water. This is a perfect way of transportation between souks which are located on both shores. Situated in the heart of Dubai the creek divides the city into two parts forming Deira district of old Dubai, representing the historic origins, and Bur Dubai with its modern futuristic skyscrapers.