Dubai Heritage Highlights

Dubai is renowned for its dazzling skyline, but those who look beyond the modern façade will discover a captivating blend of heritage and tradition unlike anywhere else. The city's roots stretch back to the Iron Age, with more recent history shaped by the nomadic Bedouins who once roamed its vast deserts. One of the most authentic ways to connect with Dubai’s cultural legacy is through a desert journey. The Al Marmoom Bedouin Experience offers a chance to step into the past and walk in the footsteps of Dubai’s earliest settlers. Along the way, you may encounter Arabian gazelles, desert foxes, and wild camels, freely roaming the sands just as they have for centuries.

Falconry, a cherished Arabian practice, continues to hold deep significance in desert life. At the Falcon and Heritage Sports Centre, visitors can explore the history and cultural importance of this noble bird. Sports enthusiasts will also enjoy a trip to the Al Marmoom Camel Race Track, where the ancient tradition of camel racing has been revived in a modern setting.

Venturing further inland, history lovers can delve into the UAE’s rich pearl diving heritage at Dubai’s Pearl Museum, home to thousands of exquisite pearls. For a deeper understanding of local culture, the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU Dubai) and the Etihad Museum offer immersive experiences that bring Emirati customs and history to life.

To shop like a true local, explore the iconic Gold Souk and wander through the narrow lanes of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Old Dubai. Whether it's through exploring museums, engaging in cultural experiences, or enjoying a traditional Emirati meal, Dubai’s rich history remains vibrant and ready to be discovered.