MUSEUMS
Dubai Museum
Al Fahidi Fort, today known as the Dubai Museum, is located in old town Bur Dubai amongst some of Dubai’s well-known heritage centers. The museum is home to Dubai’s history of its culture and traditions. The museum tells a story of the past and how today’s development and vision and leadership has derived from it.
Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
Located in the old part of Dubai – the Al Shindaga area – the former residence, until 1958, of the Al Maktoum monarch family is now a must-visit heritage site with several museums. Its strategic location gave the ruling family the perfect viewpoint to overlook the Deira and Bur Dubai areas which were then the trading centers of the Emirate. Visitors have a chance to explore the premises, the traditional architecture, and the historical documents, along with collections of photographs, jewelry, coins, stamps, and family history.
MARKETS
Bur Dubai textile market
The textile souk (market) is filled with incredible textile fabrics and gems to be bought! But it is crowded and touristy, so go with a local host who will coach you on how to haggle prices with the shop sellers to get the best deals, it’s a must and super fun! You might even chat up some of the local shop owners and hear their stories; Dubai is very eclectic with people from all over the world.
Flea market
The flea market is held three to four times a month in various locations across the city, has actually inspired a local market trend across the city. The flea market is a true local favorite and one to be enjoyed with a local host who will know where and when they are happening! With over 300 stalls of various second-hand gems including ceramics, antiques, arts, fabrics, crafts, clothes, furniture, jewelry and instruments, you will lose yourself in the myriad of stalls and stands.
Souk al-Bahar
The market is a large building designed in ancient Arabesque style with high archways featuring beautiful Islamic art. It is old meets new, a modern shopping experience with an ancient flavor.The complex boasts over 100 shops and incredible restaurants; it is next to the famous Dubai fountain so you can peak at the fountain show. Your host will show you the best shops for what you are looking for and you can enjoy an incredible Lebanese meal at the famous Abd al-Wahhab restaurant overlooking the fountain.
Spice Market
The smells, the sounds, the bustle, there is just not much quite like it! The spice souk (market) in Deira is filled with every spice you could dream of: vanilla pods, cinnamon sticks, stacks upon stacks or cardamom, saffron, and curry spices. Don’t leave this place without a few spices to take home!
Farmers’ Market
Six months a year, a group of organic farmers sell their best locally grown produce, from farm-fresh eggs to greens to tomatoes. The Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Friday morning by the local deli Baker & Spice is stocked with handmade jams and breads, beautiful vegetables and fruits, which are directly sold by the farmers themselves.
