When visiting the magnificent city of Dubai, many are drawn to its modern attractions, impressive buildings and technological marvels. But, Dubai has a rich cultural past and plenty of sites that showcase the intriguing history behind its modernity. For those looking to explore this unique duality, here are some attractions and places to visit that speak to both the new and old of Dubai.
Real Madrid World
Dubai now hosts the world’s first football theme park that features more than 40 exciting experiences. The park has three zones – Champions Avenue, Stars Avenue and Celebration Plaza. Visitors can enjoy exhilarating rides on the first wooden roller coaster in the region, or the world’s tallest amusement ride that stands at 460 feet.
ARTE MUSEUM Dubai
Just a 20-minute drive away from NH Collection Dubai The Palm, this one-of-a-kind museum offers visitors an immersive art experience, combining the best of creativity and modern technology. Spanning nearly 2800 square metres the gallery has works across 14 zones under the theme ‘Eternal Nature’. Visitors can appreciate the exhibits with the help of technology through production mapping, multi-image control, and sensor-based interaction systems.
GLITCH
This is a brand new entertainment destination located in the Al Ghurair Centre which includes 30 different indoor games. It includes a ninja warrior-type course, climbing walls, a 10-metre high slide, bowling alleys, and a unique roller glider experience that allows visitors to ‘float’ around the venue. With so many activities and games, this vibrant zone has something for everyone.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Visitors to this historical neighbourhood will be taken back in time to witness the Dubai of the late 19th and 20th centuries. A stark contrast to the city’s modern marvels, this neighbourhood is filled with alleys and sunlit squares that showcase the wonders of traditional architecture. There are also museums, exhibitions and other activities that help tourists experience and learn about the unique history of Dubai. Tourists staying at any of the Palm Jumeirah hotels can visit this fascinating neighbourhood to witness the wonders of the Dubai of old.
The Textile Souk
Another attraction that tourists in Dubai must visit is The Textile Souk in Bur Dubai. It is a shop that contains various colourful textiles and fabrics that are used to make traditional clothing items. Visitors will find shelves stacked with reels of raw and embroidered material of various colours and textures, as well as ready-made traditional clothes produced by local designers.
Bur Dubai Grand Mosque
The Grand Mosque in Bur Dubai constitutes the city’s religious hub. It is built in traditional Islamic architectural styles and features blue mosaics and detailed geometric carvings. The mosque comes to life after dark, with the impressive structure being lit up with spectacular lights to make it the most photographed mosque in Dubai. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to learn more about the mosque’s history and architectural details.