Sights · Our pick in Dubai
Desert to skyline: the back story
The back story
About Desert to skyline: the back story
Dubai began on the Creek, the sheltered inlet where Bur Dubai and Deira face each other. For generations the town lived from the sea: Dubai Culture describes how pearling shaped the Gulf’s economy from the late 18th century until the trade declined in the 1930s.
The Creek
The wind-tower houses of Al Fahidi and the coral-stone buildings of Al Shindagha date from the merchant town that grew along the water. The abras still cross between Bur Dubai and Deira.
A new country
The United Arab Emirates was formed on 2 December 1971, now National Day; Ras Al Khaimah joined on 10 February 1972 (u.ae).
Start where the city started: an abra across the Creek.
The modern city
The Dubai Metro opened on 9 September 2009, and Burj Khalifa, 828 metres tall, opened in 2010 (visitdubai.com). Etihad Rail’s passenger trains now link Dubai with Abu Dhabi, and the Metro Blue Line is under construction for 2029.
Seeing it today
Walk Al Fahidi and Al Seef in the morning, ride an abra to the souks, and watch the Dubai Fountain at night.
Our advice: the old town in the cool of the morning, the towers after dark.
Why it's on our list
- The Creek
- A new country
- The modern city
- Seeing it today
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Desert to skyline: the back story before you go.