Bastakiya District Dubai
Introduction
There are many interesting places in the city of Dubai and in the surrounding areas. Although quite a young city, you can find all sorts of strange and historical wonders if you look hard enough. Secret places in Dubai are hard to find but here, we will look at 6 of these locations so that you can investigate for yourself. Enjoy!
Table Of Contents
- Bastakiya District
- Al Serkal Avenue
- Coffee Museum
- Wild Life Sanctuary Ras Al Khor
- Miracle Garden
- Al Qudra Lake
- Summary
- Useful Links
- Key Takeaways
The Dubai Secret Places
Over the years of living in Dubai, I have come across many different locations that are hidden from the normal tourist haunts. Some of these are listed below and I will write more posts in the future about the others. Over time some have become less secret and more popular as word has spread. It’s fun to find other examples. I will keep you posted. The list of weird wonder spots in Dubai grows every month.
Whether it is a part of Secret Dubai or not, there are many secret things to do in Dubai. Let’s explore some of them here.
Bastakiya District – My Favourite Secret Place In Dubai
Located in the heart of Dubai, Bastakiya is a historic neighborhood that offers a glimpse into Dubai’s past. The area is characterized by narrow lanes, wind towers, and traditional buildings that date back to the early 1900s. Visitors can stroll through the streets and explore the many art galleries, cafes, and museums that dot the neighborhood.
Dubai Museum is also located in the same area. It offers a fascinating insight into the city’s history and culture. Another must-visit spot is the Arabian Tea House, which serves traditional Emirati dishes in a beautiful courtyard setting.
Bastikiya is a charming neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Persian mechants settled in the area and developed it in the 19th century. Its narrow alleys and traditional wind towers contrast the modern skyscrapers that dominate the city’s skyline.
The Al Fahidi Fort is a key highlight in the area which now serves as a museum.It now serves as a museum, where you can learn about Dubai’s past as a fishing and pearl diving village. It also examines tge transformation into a global hub for trade and tourism. The museum also features exhibits on traditional Emirati architecture, music, and customs.
Another must-visit attraction in Bastikiya is the Dubai Museum, located in the former residence of Dubai’s rulers. The museum showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts, including old photographs, weapons, and household items.
I love walking around this place as you get a feel for how Dubai once was. The passage ways are very atmospheric, particularly at night, and there are many little shops and cafes to explore.
Al Serkal Avenue
Al Serkal Avenue is spread over 500,000 square feet and is designed to be an environment for creative minds. It has become a center for contemporary art and culture in the UAE, attracting both local and international artists.
Al Serkal Avenue has many industrial style warehouses that have been transformed into modern space for exhibitions. There are many outdoor spaces, courtyards and gardens within the area.
The area is divided into different zones, each with a unique character and atmosphere. The Avenue, the district’s main street, is lined with cafes, boutiques, and galleries and is a popular destination for visitors. Concrete, on the other hand, is a minimalist and industrial space often used for large-scale installations and exhibitions.
In addition to art and cultural events, Al Serkal Avenue also hosts fitness and wellness activities, such dance workshops. The district also features a dedicated theater space, The Junction, which hosts plays, performances, and screenings.
Overall, Al Serkal Avenue has become Dubai’s vibrant and dynamic hub for creativity and innovation. It has significantly promoted the city’s cultural identity and helped establish Dubai as a leading destination for art and culture. One of the great secret places in Dubai.
Coffee Museum
The Coffee Museum in Dubai provides visitors with a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of coffee. Located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, the museum features a collection of coffee-related artifacts. These include traditional coffee pots, grinders, and roasters.
Visitors can also learn about the history of coffee, its journey from the ancient Arab world to modern-day cafes. It also examines the various brewing techniques used worldwide. The museum also offers coffee tastings and workshops where visitors can learn about the different types of coffee beans.
In addition to the exhibition, the museum has a coffee shop where visitors can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee made from beans from various regions of the world. The café also serves traditional Arabic coffee and a variety of other beverages and snacks.
The museum is in a traditional Emirati house in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, one of Dubai’s oldest and most picturesque areas. The museum has only 300 coffee related artefacts on display.
Visitors can participate in coffee tastings and workshops, where they can sample different types of coffee and learn about the brewing methods used to make them. The workshops are led by experienced baristas who are passionate about coffee.
The museum’s coffee shop serves various coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte, as well as traditional Arabic coffee. This coffee is brewed using a special method that involves roasting and grinding the beans before adding them to boiling water. It’s like a secret place in Dubai just for coffee conniseurs.
Wild Life Sanctuary In Ras Al Khor
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature reserve in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Established in 1985 and covers an area of 6.2 square kilometers (2.4 square miles) at the mouth of Dubai Creek.
The sanctuary is a wetland area of salt flats, mudflats, mangroves, and lagoons. It is home to over 270 species of birds, including flamingos, herons, egrets, and cormorants.
The sanctuary is open to the public; visitors can observe the birds from three bird hides on the wetlands’ edge. The bird hides allow visitors to watch the birds without disturbing them.
In addition to bird watching, visitors to the sanctuary can enjoy guided nature walks and learn about the local flora and fauna. The sanctuary also has a visitors’ center that provides information about the wildlife and the area’s history.
The sanctuary is primarily known for its bird-watching opportunities, and bird enthusiasts flock to the sanctuary to observe the birds. Flamingos are a popular attraction and can be spotted in large numbers during winter. Other birds that can be seen include the Grey Heron, Western Reef Heron, Osprey, and many more.
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is an important conservation area in Dubai and is recognized internationally as an important wetland habitat. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts visiting Dubai. Definitely one of the best secret places in Dubai.
Miracle Garden
The Dubai Miracle Garden is a popular tourist attraction in the Dubailand area of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is the world’s largest flower garden, featuring more than 45 million flowers of various species arranged in elaborate and colorful displays.
The garden opened in 2013 and is spread over 72,000 square meters. It features numerous themed gardens, such as the heart-shaped flower arches, floral castle. There is even an Emirates A380 airplane display, and a replica of the Burj Khalifa made entirely of flowers. The garden is particularly famous for its breathtaking floral arrangements in the shape of different animals and landmarks. There is even a floral version of the Airbus A380.
The Dubai Miracle Garden is open to visitors from November to May yearly, as it gets too hot to maintain the garden during the summer months. Visitors can walk through the gardens, take in the beautiful sights, or ride on the garden’s train tour for a more leisurely experience. The garden also features a variety of dining options, including a food truck park and several cafes.
In addition to being a popular tourist attraction, the Dubai Miracle Garden has received several awards for its innovative floral designs and commitment to sustainable practices. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone looking to experience the beauty of flowers unforgettably. Many people don’t know about this secret place in Dubai, so it’s a great opportunity to see something different.
More information about the Dubai Miracle Garden.
Al Qudra Lake
Al Qudra Lake is a man-made lake in the middle of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly for cycling, bird watching, and picnics.
The Dubai Municipality created the lake in 2010 as part of its efforts to promote sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. The lake is fed by treated sewage water, which is also used to irrigate the surrounding desert vegetation.
There are many cycling tracks and picnic areas surrounding the lakes. The lake also has various bird species, including flamingos, herons, and ducks.
In addition to the lake and the surrounding natural scenery, the area also features several amenities for visitors, such as restrooms, parking areas, and food trucks. The lake is famous for its stunning sunsets, making it a popular photography spot.
Please bring your own food when visiting the lake as there are limited facilities. The lake is also in the middle of the desert, so visitors should be prepared for the hot and dry weather, especially during summer.
Overall, Al Qudra Lake offers a unique outdoor experience for visitors to Dubai, combining stunning natural scenery with recreational activities and environmental conservation efforts. It’s a lot of fun, and I have been there many times; a great secret place in Dubai to visit.
Summary Of Secret Places In Dubai
There are many more unique and “secret” locations in Dubai and the surrounding areas, and we will cover more of them in future posts. Go out and explore Dubai and see what it has to offer.
FAQ
1. Q: What are some secret places in Dubai? A: Dubai has several hidden gems. You can explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Dubai Miracle Garden, The Green Planet, Hatta, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Dubai Opera Garden, Jumeirah Archaeological Site, Dubai Butterfly Garden, and the Dubai Frame.
2. Q: What is unique about the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood? A: The Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, also known as Bastakiya, offers a glimpse into Dubai’s past with its traditional wind-tower architecture, narrow lanes, art galleries, and cozy cafés.
3. Q: When is the best time to visit the Dubai Miracle Garden? A: The Dubai Miracle Garden is seasonal, typically open from November to April when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for exploring the intricate flower displays.
4. Q: What can I find at The Green Planet in Dubai? A: The Green Planet is an indoor tropical rainforest in City Walk, featuring diverse flora and fauna, including a 35-meter-tall tree, making it a unique and immersive experience.
5. Q: How can I visit Hatta from Dubai? A: Hatta is a picturesque mountain town near Dubai. You can drive there, rent a car, or book a guided tour to enjoy outdoor activities, explore the Hatta Dam, and visit the Hatta Heritage Village.
6. Q: What’s the art scene like in Alserkal Avenue, Dubai? A: Alserkal Avenue is an arts district with galleries, design studios, creative spaces, and unique events, making it the hub of Dubai’s contemporary art scene.
7. Q: Can I visit the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club if I’m not a golfer? A: Absolutely! The Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club offers beautiful waterfront views, a marina, and several restaurants, making it a great place to relax even if you’re not a golfer.
8. Q: How do I get to the Dubai Opera Garden? A: The Dubai Opera Garden is located next to the iconic Dubai Opera. You can easily reach it by taxi, metro, or even on foot, enjoying the beautiful views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain.
9. Q: What historical artifacts can I see at the Jumeirah Archaeological Site? A: The Jumeirah Archaeological Site showcases the remains of a historic settlement with ancient artifacts and structures, offering insights into Dubai’s history before its modernization.
10. Q: When is the Dubai Butterfly Garden open? A: The Dubai Butterfly Garden is a seasonal attraction, typically open from November to April, providing a magical experience with thousands of vibrant butterflies in a controlled environment.
Useful Links
- You can find more information about the Al Bastakiya District HERE
- Al Serkal Avenue is really cool, and you can find out more about it HERE
- You can explore more about the Coffee Museum HERE
- For further details about the beautiful wildlife sanctuary, check HERE
- Check out more details of the Miracle Garden HERE
- Find out more information about Al Qudra lakes HERE
- An overall guide about Dubai can be found HERE
- Want to go to the beach? Check the best ones out HERE
- Information about Dubai Entry Requirements are HERE
- Looking for fine dining options? Check HERE
Key Takeaways
- There are a wide variety of things to see and do in Dubai.
- Please respect the areas you visit and remove any rubbish you might have.
- It’s tempting to hang around the tourist areas of Dubai. But don’t. Go out and explore the different parts of this beautiful city.
- The more you put into exploring, the more you will get out of experiencing Dubai.
