AL BASTAKIYA

Description

Essentials about Al Bastakiya in brief

If you are interested in old Dubai, you should definitely take a walk through the historic and listed district of Al Bastakiya. Located on Dubai Creek, the neighborhood is one of the most charming areas of Dubai with its narrow streets and old houses. In the meantime, Al Bastakiya has been renamed “Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood”, because the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest still existing building in Dubai, is located in the immediate vicinity.

The history of Al Bastakiya

Together with Shindagha, Al Bastakiya is one of the oldest residential areas in Dubai. It is named after the city of Bastak in Iran, from which many of its residents originated, most of whom were Sunni Arabs. To escape taxation and reprisals due to their Sunni beliefs, they moved back to the Arab Gulf states, including Dubai.

The construction of Al Bastakiya dates back to the 1890s. In the early years, there were about 60 houses in the neighborhood, separated by narrow, windy alleys. Traditionally, Al Bastakiya was a stronghold of wealthy residents. However, the discovery of oil in the emirate of Dubai changed the demographic structure. Many wealthy families moved to other parts of the city, and by the 1970s, many of the buildings were facing decay. Fortunately, the contemplated demolition of the neighborhood was averted by the initiative of committed citizens (even Prince Charles is said to have campaigned for its preservation during a visit to Dubai).

The sights in Al Bastakiya

Starting in 2005, Dubai Municipality began a project to restore the historic buildings and alleys. Al Bastakiya has since developed into an artists’ and cultural district with galleries, exhibitions and museums. There are also plans to expand the neighborhood with detailed replicas, another museum, a dedicated cultural center, more galleries and restaurants.

The charming alleys and houses of Al Bastakiya are best discovered by an aimless stroll. Those who want more details about the neighborhood can also visit the on-site Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, which offers guided tours of Al Bastakiya.