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Al Fahidi : Where the Spirit of Old Dubai Whispers
It ’ s been said that when you walk through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood , one of Dubai ’ s oldest districts , it ’ s like travelling back in time to an Aladdinesque era . Featuring over 50 wellpreserved houses converted to host various cultural sites , it ’ s practically a snapshot of 19-century Dubai . In the labyrinth of narrow streets and shoulder-width alleys flanked by sand-coloured structures , the spirit of this old world whispers : in the local souk , it captures your gaze with floor-to-ceiling seas of brightly coloured purses , pillows and pashminas , it tickles your nostrils with aromas of herbs , dried fruits , and spices , beckoning under the hum of buyer / seller haggling .
It ’ s also said that when visiting Al Fahidi you should remember to look up , because towering high above all the action are perhaps the greatest souvenirs of that bygone era : the
wind towers , or barjeels , in their
by Shana Jones
original material of stone , teak , plaster , palm or sandalwood . These square-shaped structures with protruding poles constructed atop the houses kept the insides cool by directing wind into the houses . They remain in use here and in other parts of Dubai .
Apart from stunning architecture and lively shopping spaces , Al Fahidi is loaded with cultural sites and experiences . Perhaps the most significant and well-known among tourists is the
Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding , where tourists can learn about Emirati culture through various activities such as heritage lectures , tours , and classes in Arabic . There is even the opportunity to savour shared platters of traditional dishes on
Bedouin-style cushions and carpets in the courtyard .
The neighbourhood is also home to many other cultural
gems . Dar al Khatt Alarabi ( Arabic Calligraphy House ) showcases all things Arabic calligraphy as well as other visual art forms . The
Coins Museum displays more than 470 rare coins representing currencies from different historical periods and various countries . The internationally recognized
XVA Gallery Art Hotel & Café specializes in the contemporary art of regional , Iranian and Indian artists . Each of the hotel ’ s guest rooms features a cultural or architectural motif of the city , and guests and visitors are invited to fuel up on Middle East-inspired selections at its vegetarian café .
This is only the tip of the iceberg of experiences to be had in Al Fahidi , as the neighbourhood is also home to various world-class restaurants in walking distance of a host of other cultural sites . Check them out at
www . visitdubai . com . Remember your water and comfortable shoes !
