The Al Fahidi Quarter of Dubai, also known as Bastakia, is a must-see destination for anyone interested in experiencing the city’s rich cultural heritage. This small, well-preserved neighborhood offers a glimpse into the simpler, gentler past of Dubai, before the city’s iconic skyscrapers began to dominate the skyline.

The narrow lanes of the Al Fahidi Quarter are lined with traditional Arabian buildings, many of which have been carefully restored to their original condition. These buildings feature wind towers, which were used to keep the houses cool in the days before air conditioning became common.

Today, many of the buildings in the Al Fahidi Quarter have been repurposed as museums, art galleries, and craft shops. Visitors can explore the houses and see typical Arabian interiors, or shop for locally made crafts and artwork.

The Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding is also located in the Al Fahidi Quarter and offers walking tours focused on the neighborhood, as well as traditional meals for visitors who want to experience local culinary heritage firsthand.