Drawn to Dubai by rich trade opportunities, Persian merchants built this area in the late 19th century. This is Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Also known as Al Bastakiya, it offers a glimpse into Dubai’s past. It shows a traditional lifestyle from the mid-1800s to the 1970s.
The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood was once capable of 60 homes. Narrow winding lanes separated these homes. The district got its name from Bastak. This is a southern Iranian town. Affluent Persian merchants mainly built Al Bastakiya. They were drawn to Dubai. The Emerati government offered rich trade opportunities. They also offered incentives.
Buildings in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood used traditional materials. These included stone, gypsum, teak, and sandalwood. Fronds and palm wood were also used. High air towers called Barajeel are a prominent feature. These provided an early and effective form of air-conditioning. Alleys and public squares separate the buildings. This gives the district a natural diversity.
In the 1980s, half of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood was set to be destroyed. This was to make way for a new office complex. But in 1989, the Dubai Municipality wanted to demolish the remaining parts. A British architect named Rayner Otter renovated his house there. He then started a campaign to preserve the area. He wrote to Prince Charles.
Prince Charles visited Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. He explored the area with Rayner Otter. The Prince suggested that Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood should be preserved. The demolition was canceled.
The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood played an important role. It helped manage Dubai. It also helped organize Dubai’s commercial relations overseas. It sits strategically on Dubai Creek. The neighbourhood is near the Ruler of Dubai’s Court.
Notice the community’s care for privacy. Front windows are scarce. If there are any, they are narrow and high. The alleys wind and twist. All buildings face southwest towards the qibla.
Today, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood hosts many cultural activities. There are art galleries and specialized museums. You will also find cultural centers. One is the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding. Seasonal cultural events also take place here. One example is the Sikka Art Festival.
Take a stroll through Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Experience Dubai’s old way of life. Appreciate the values reflected in the building designs. Imagine life in Dubai long ago.