Al-Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is the city’s oldest heritage sites (and a proposed Unesco World Heritage Site). It has buildings with high air towers (Barajeel), built with traditional building materials such as stone, gypsum, teak, sandal wood, fronds and palm wood that are aligned side by side. They are separated by alleys and twisting pathways. It gives an idea of what traditional life in Old Dubai was like during the mid-19th century.
Discover a plethora of cultural activities, museums, art galleries, special events and traditional food in the neighbourhood.
Al Serkal Cultural Foundation:
Alserkal cultural Foundation holds a vibrant environment featuring 5 Exhibition Rooms, Creativity Corner, Rooftop, Make Art Café, Fashion Corner, Book Quarter, Home Corner, and Workshop Room. Courtyard is in the centre and has food stalls too.
In the creative corner,there is a display of Art and handicrafts.
The shadow sculptures by Bassam and Maysoon are unique and one of a kind.They are limited editions.The duo make clay sculptures of Arabic words and then shine a light on these, producing intricate shadows that reflect both the literal and figurative meaning behind the sculpture.
The roof top has seating with beautiful view
The Book Corner on the Rooftop is a treasure of books on Art, Architecture, Culture of the Region, Design, Emirati History and Travel.
Fashion corner has contemporary designs with traditional touch.
Home Corner showcases unique and high quality handmade products.
Many events and work shops takes place in this cultural foundation. A good walk through the historic district transport you to the bygone era!Its definitely a must visit place for history lovers.There are a lot of cultural centres, art galleries, boutiques, vintage styles cafes,coffee museum and many more.
The Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding –the centre offers a range of activities, from traditional cuisine to conversations with local Emiratis. With its motto Open Doors, Open Minds, all questions – no matter how sensitive – are welcome and answered.
Coffee Museum – It features the coffee-making history in Dubai Coffee and displays antique coffee machines and pots along with serving a variety of
international coffees.
Coin Museum – Coins Museum represents a rare opportunity to see more than 470 pieces of rare coins dating back to different historical eras.
Arabian Tea House Restaurant is not be missed!
There is another restaurant nearby named Local House Restaurant with traditional look.
Opening hours:
The Al Fahidi historic district is open 24 hours
The cultural foundation is open from 9 am to 7 pm
Entrance Fee:
FREE
How to get there:
By Metro, get down at Al Fahidi Metro Station( green line) and walk for 1.3 Km to reach the Al Fahidi Neighbourhood.
Address & Location:
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood,
Al Musalla Rd. Corner Al Fahidi St.
Bur Dubai, Dubai – UAE.
Tips:
- Better to come in the morning as it’s less crowded.
- Dubai Musuem and textile souk are near by.
- Don’t forget to dine in the Arabian Tea House.