A trip to Dubai transports you on a journey through time. Archaeological discoveries suggest that, as long as four thousand years ago, small fishing communities lived along the coast of the Arabian Gulf on the site of modern Dubai. It is also believed that the natural sheltered harbor afforded by the Dubai Creek was a busy port of call on the ancient trade route between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley.
In recent years, archaeologists have unearthed hundreds of artifacts, including pottery, weapons, and coinage, that point to civilized settlements dating back to the third millennium BC. These historic finds have been carefully preserved and are now permanently housed in the Archaeological Section of Dubai Museum. Modern Dubai, however, traces its origins to the 1830s. At that time, the small fishing village on the Shindagha peninsula at the mouth of the Creek was settled by a branch of the Bani Yas tribe, originally from the Liwa oasis to the south, led by the Maktoum family who still rule the emirate today.
By the late 1870s, Dubai was often referred to as the principal port on the Gulf coast and, by the turn of the century, was reputed to have had the largest souks in Arabia. Pearling, which was the mainstay of the city’s prosperity for many years, succumbed to the development of cultured pearls in the 1940s.
But Dubai’s enterprising merchants bounced back, developing a thriving trade in gold and other commodities. Much of this history is carefully preserved in myriad forts, mosques, palaces, and other historic monuments, which are on the itineraries of many organized tours.
Culture
Dubai culture is rooted in Islam, providing strength and inspiration that touches all aspects of everyday life. Virtually every neighborhood has its own mosque, where the faithful congregate for prayer five times every day. One of the largest and most beautiful mosques, Jumeirah Mosque, is a spectacular example of modern Islamic architecture. Built of stone in the medieval Fatimid style, the mosque is particularly attractive at night, when subtle lighting throws its artistry into sharp relief.
Ramazan, which commemorates the revelation of the Holy Quran, is the Holy Month of fasting when Muslims abstain from all food and drink from dawn to dusk. Courtesy and hospitality are among the most highly prized virtues in the Arab world, and visitors will be charmed by the warmth and friendliness of the people.
Exploring Shopping Havens
Mercato, Contact: +971 04 3444161, Jumeirah Beach Road Mercato, translated as 'Market' in Italian, stands as the sole Renaissance-themed shopping complex in the Middle East. This distinctive mall captures the essence of Italian, French, and Spanish cultures, boasting periodic fairs and festivals from each of these nations.
Town Centre Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Road, Contact: +971 04 3440111 For those seeking exclusive gifts, unique fashion finds, beauty essentials, and skincare products, Town Centre Jumeirah awaits. Offering a serene and untroubled shopping ambiance characterized by its spacious and bright atmosphere, this centre serves as a haven for shopping, relaxation, and casual dining.
Mall of the Emirates, Near the 4th interchange on Sheikh Zayed Road
Operating Hours: Outside Ramazan: Sun-Wed 10 AM-10:00 PM; Thu-Sat 10 AM-12 PM (midnight); Ramazan: Sun-Sat: 10 AM-1 AM Boasting the distinction of being the largest shopping mall outside North America, the Mall of the Emirates offers over 200 shops, a plethora of cinemas, and the renowned Ski Centre—a hallmark of Dubai. Luxury brands intermingle with international high street chains, including the prestigious Harvey Nichols. Countless restaurants and cafes populate the space, although cafes tend to be more crowded here.
Ibn Battuta Mall, Jebel Ali Operating Hours: Daily 10 AM-12 AM (midnight) Ibn Battuta Mall immerses visitors in the atmospheres of six distinct countries—China, India, Persia, Egypt, Tunisia, and Andalusia. While the collection of shops leans toward a broader range rather than exclusively high-end brands, the mall encompasses various restaurants and cafes, including three Starbucks outlets and a multiplex cinema featuring an IMAX screen.
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