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Top Cultural Hubs of Dubai You Have to Visit

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David Willson
Top Cultural Hubs of Dubai You Have to Visit

Dubai is more than just the central attraction in the Middle East nestling inside countless skyscrapers and high-rises. The favourite metropolitan capital of the desert is now the most appealing city in the hemisphere owing to its cultural beauty and traditional history. Moreover, the evolution and innovations that it has brought in front of the world have revolutionized definitions of modern architecture. In addition to this, the impact Dubai has had on the whole world in terms of progressing concepts of art and civilization is noteworthy.

Needless to say, the financial capital and centre of cultural attractions is filled with tourist destinations that are for more than just high-class living. Here are a few cultural spots in Dubai you should definitely visit:

Dubai Museum

Situated in the Al-Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum is a place you certainly can’t miss. Originally constructed to defend the Dubai Creek from invaders and pirates, the fort reached completion in 1787. With walls made of coral-blocks that are joined together using lime, the museum shows the use of traditional construction materials even now. You’d be amazed to see how the upper floor is completely supported and relying on wooden poles. Whereas, the ceiling is made up of palm fronds and a mixture of plaster and mud.

Throughout history, the place was a fortress that housed the royal family of the time. Moreover, there was a dungeon and an army garrison in the premises for prisoners and the royal guard. However, it’s said that the invasions that took place around the 18-19th centuries left the fort in ruins. As a matter of fact, it was reconstructed twice, once in 1971 and again in 1995. After the latest renovation, though, it has only seen tourists and locals come to it instead of any harm.

Bastakia Neighbourhood

Also known as the Al Fahidi Quarter, Bastakia Neighbourhood is sometimes referred to as Old Dubai. That’s because the place became the central marketplace for traders who came and settled in from around the world. Most of the prominent traders that managed to establish a monopoly in the market were the Persians who traded mainly in pearls. In addition to pearls, they also brought the much-demanded textile products into mainstream access, which earned them a lot of reputation. This was mostly because of the tax-free trade that is, although changed, but still favourable to this day. Another aspect that lured other traders to the area was the fact that the area granted direct access to the Dubai Creek.

The whole neighbourhood area comprises of old Arabian architecture spread across the eastern part of Bur Dubai. One of the most notable things in the buildings is the topping of the walls. Following the same symmetry and design of wind-towers, the consistency throughout the area makes for a very aesthetically appealing sight.

In addition to this, you’ll find the Majlis Gallery that houses traditional Arab ceramics and furniture. If you have a taste for art exhibitions, you’ll definitely love the Al Serkal Cultural Foundation that comprises of a shop, a café and art exhibitions on rotation.

Art Dubai:

It’s unfair to speak of cultural settings in the Middle East and not discuss the contemporary fair, Art Dubai. Started in 2007, the fair has since gained international fame from all the places for all the right reasons. Showcasing over 90 galleries coming in from over 40 countries around the world, Art Dubai is the most diverse art fair in the world. The fair happens in the gallery where the area has been divided into four sections:

  • Contemporary
  • Modern
  • Bawwaba
  • Residents

With varying criteria for selection for each category, the administration makes sure to classify each painting or artwork carefully before determining where it’s going to go.  

Almost 30,000 visitors came in from everywhere to witness the magnificent display of cultural arts in 2019. Regional, international and local art collectors and enthusiasts along with patrons came in to bid at the auctions. Counting the number of institutions, close to 100 showed up at the event.

You can see the names of emerging as well as the most reputed artists being showcased in the fair. From minimalistic and impressionist artworks to modernist paintings and masterpieces of abstract settings, everything related to art is available at the exhibition. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this year’s art fair was showcased online due to the pandemic restrictions and precautionary measures. The next one is set for the upcoming month of March, subject to the circumstances that persist till then. Needless to say, it’s a great opportunity to witness the magnificent art galleries in Dubai. Take your kids, loved ones or even colleagues who might be interested in exploring the cultural side of the emirate. 

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David Willson
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