Dubai is a city that is rich in culture and heritage. It is a melting pot of nationalities, and the perfect destination for anyone looking to learn more about the Middle East. In this blog post, we will explore the best places to experience the culture of Dubai. We will cover everything from the top cultural hotspots to the best activities to do in the city. So, whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.
Dubai Museum
The Dubai Museum, housed within the historic Al Fahidi Fort, stands as an essential destination for enthusiasts eager to delve into the captivating history and heritage of Dubai. Erected in 1787 to safeguard the city from external threats, the fort served various roles, including being the monarch’s residence, a fortified stronghold, weapons repository, and prison, before undergoing restoration during Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s reign. Open from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM on Saturdays to Thursdays and 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM on Fridays, the museum presents an immersive journey through Dubai’s past. Exhibits vividly recreate historic Arab dwellings, mosques, markets, and date farms, offering glimpses into desert and marine life. The museum also provides insight into the region’s pearl diving legacy, showcasing artifacts dating back to 3000BC. With an entrance fee of AED 3 for adults and AED 1 for children under six, the Dubai Museum ensures an affordable and enriching experience for all visitors.
Gold Souk
The Gold Souk in Dubai’s Deira district is a renowned traditional market with 380+ retailers, offering an array of jewelry crafted from gold, silver, diamonds, and precious stones. Prices for 24K, 22K, 21K, and 18K are displayed per gram, reflecting the market rate, with an additional making charge. Beyond gold, the souk features Indian and Indian-inspired jewelry, pearls, platinum, and silver. Bargaining is common, with better cash discounts, though credit cards are accepted. Purchase from stores rather than street vendors for genuine, regulated items. A 5% VAT applies, refundable at the airport (85% for tourists). Buy from participating retailers, identified by Tax-Free stickers, and present a sales receipt with a tax refund tag.
Operating from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Saturday to Thursday) and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM (Fridays), the Gold Souk is a must-visit in Deira for a captivating experience, even if not buying gold.
Desert Safari
Experience the thrill of Desert Safari Dubai, a six-hour adventure packed with excitement. Activities include belly dancing, dune bashing, Tanura dance, sandboarding, camel and horse riding. Various options are available: evening, morning, overnight, dinner, or city tours.
For time-efficient exploration, opt for the Morning Desert Safari featuring dune bashing and additional choices like quad bikes or camel rides. Open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Saturday to Thursday) and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM (Fridays), Desert Safari Dubai offers diverse tour options with costs ranging from AED100 for budget trips to AED1,000-2,000 for premium experiences. Top providers include Platinum Heritage for luxury trips in vintage vehicles and Arabian Adventures, offering a wide range of safari choices.
MBR Library
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, situated in Dubai’s Al Jaddaf locality, is a striking architectural marvel resembling a traditional wooden book rest, or “rehl.” Opened to the public on June 16, 2022, it accommodates up to 1000 visitors at once across its nine libraries. The vast catalog boasts over 1.1 million printed and digital books, 6 million dissertations, 73,000 musical scores, 75,000 videos, and various historical acquisitions. The library is environmentally conscious, featuring solar panels for 10% of its energy needs and water reuse initiatives.
For those planning a visit, the library, near Creek Metro Station, is open Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 9 PM and Fridays from 2 PM to 9 PM, with Sunday as a holiday. It offers diverse services, including study rooms, exhibition spaces, a cafe, courtyard, bookstore, and an indoor-outdoor theater for events, making it a must-visit literary destination in Dubai.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library stands as a literary gem in Dubai, boasting stunning architecture and a diverse collection catering to varied interests. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, music lover, or seeking a quiet reading spot, this library is a worthwhile addition to your Dubai itinerary.
Camel and Horse Riding
Camel and horse riding are popular cultural experiences in Dubai, providing visitors with a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage. Rayna Tours offers a one-hour camel ride through scenic desert trails, allowing exploration of sand valleys and authentic Bedouin camps. Al Jiyad Stables, home to over 120 horses, provides desert safaris with sightings of indigenous wildlife, while Al Dhabi Horse Riding offers affordable packages for both horse and camel rides through Dubai’s desert. Viator presents a variety of camel rides, including half-day and full-day tours, along with horseback riding and dune bashing experiences. Finally, Cobone features diverse packages for camel and horse riding, as well as quad biking, catering to both beginners and experienced riders with well-trained staff ensuring an unforgettable ride.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dubai is a city that offers endless possibilities for adventure, culture, and cuisine. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Dubai in 2024 today!