As cricket fans from all around the world gather in Dubai for the 2025 Champions Trophy, explore the city beyond the pitch for which they book their tickets. Dubai’s appeal goes beyond its opulent facilities and contemporary cityscape. Visitors can explore Dubai's evolution from a small fishing town to a thriving city by learning about its rich history. A greater understanding of the city's history and customs can be gained by investigating these cultural treasures.
The ICC Men's Champions Trophy, a quadrennial cricket tournament organised by the International Cricket Council played in ODI format, is the 9th edition of the tournament. While Pakistan is the main host this year (with three venues in the nation chosen for the matches), the Dubai International Cricket Stadium has been chosen as the neutral venue for the tournament. The series began on February 19, with four matches held in Dubai so far. The divisive finale, slated to be held on March 9 between India and New Zealand, will also be held in Dubai.
So, if you're visiting the "The Pearl of the Gulf" to catch the live action, consider venturing beyond the pitch to dig deeper into the city's culture.
Al Bastakiya, commonly known as the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, is among one of the top spots you can venture out to. This neighbourhood, founded in the late 1800s by Persian traders from Bastak in Iran, features courtyards, wind towers, and small streets that are typical of Emirati architecture. After being threatened by urban expansion, Al Bastakiya was saved by conservation efforts, which included British architect Rayner Otter's campaigning and Prince Charles' 1989 visit, which put a stop to plans for demolition. The site now serves as evidence of Dubai's dedication to conserving its cultural legacy. In contrast to the urban glam of the city, visitors can explore museums, art galleries, and cafés housed in restored structures.
Dubai Creek has been the city's lifeline as far as trade and business are concerned. An insight into Dubai's maritime history can be gained by taking a traditional abra trip across the creek. In the past, these wooden boats have transported people and commodities between Deira and Bur Dubai, enabling trade with places as far away as India and Persia. Visitors can still imbibe this ageless voyage today for a modest fee, taking in the contrast between old trading ports and contemporary skyscrapers.
A trip to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding is a great way to learn more about Emirati culture. The motto of SMCCU, established in 1998, is "Open Doors. Open Minds." The centre, which is housed in a typical wind tower house in the Al Fahidi district, provides Arabic instruction, heritage excursions, and cultural feasts. These initiatives seek to heal cultural divides and foster mutual understanding between residents and tourists.
Hatta Heritage Village offers an insight into traditional mountain living for those who want to venture outside the city centre. This restored village, which is tucked away in the Al Hajar Mountains, has 30 structures constructed from stone, clay, and palm fronds. Houses, a mosque, and watchtowers that have been reconstructed to depict the pre-modern UAE can be explored. The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority oversees the hamlet, which opened to the public in 2001 and provides information on the area's agrarian history.
The Grand Mosque is an important landmark in Bur Dubai, next to the textile souk and the Dubai Museum. Built in 1900, it has since undergone multiple renovations, the most recent of which was in 1998 and followed traditional design. The mosque has 54 domes and the tallest minaret in the city, standing at 70 m and resembling a lighthouse. Up to 1,200 worshippers can fit within. The scheduled tour hours, which can also be joined by non-Muslim guests to explore the mosque, provides an insight into Islamic architecture and customs.
The city's commerce heritage is reflected in Dubai's souks, which offer a sensory experience. In Deira, the Spice Souk sells fragrant spices, herbs, and incense, while the Gold Souk sparkles with its assortment of gold jewellery. An understanding of traditional trade and the dynamic culture of haggling can be gained by investigating these markets. Nearby, Bur Dubai's textile souk offers a wide range of textiles, clothing, and trinkets, letting guests experience the vibe of the neighbourhood marketplace.
Dubai's food scene is a melting pot that combines international influences with traditional Emirati fare. Visitors can sample local cuisine and discover the city's culinary culture by taking part in a local food tour, such as those by Frying Pan Adventure. Complete with shawarmas and sweet luqaimat, these trips offer a delicious exploration of Dubai's culinary legacy.
To experience the traditional Bedouin lifestyle, a desert safari offers an immersive adventure. Companies like Platinum Heritage provide eco-friendly tours featuring rides in vintage Land Rovers, falconry displays, and dinners in Bedouin-style camps. Guests can enjoy traditional music, dance, and cuisine under the starlit desert sky, connecting with the nomadic heritage that has shaped Emirati culture.
Despite Dubai's reputation for contemporary architecture, sites like the Dubai Frame provide insights into the city's development. This architectural wonder, which represents a bridge between the past and present, offers expansive views. Visitors can discover how Dubai evolved from a small community to a major world city, admiring the way tradition and innovation coexist.
