7 cultural spots that define Dubai's heritage
In Dubai, there are many sites that display the nation's history and pay homage to where it all began.
As an ode to the UAE's long-standing cultural heritage, here are seven renowned sites to visit in Dubai. Coffee Museum
Designed to pay homage to the UAE's coffee culture, this concept features different roasting and brewing styles close to the country's heritage. From Middle Eastern techniques to a wide selection of coffee documentaries, visitors are educated about the ins and outside of its historical significance in Dubai. Located in Al Fahidi in Bur Dubai, this heritage hub promises a relaxing atmosphere with traditional regional architecture.
For more information visit coffeemuseum.ae Etihad Museum
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Etihad Museum (@etihadmuseum)
Designed to highlight the nation's history and how the seven emirates came to unity 1971, this heritage site displays a fascinating collection of artefacts. The museum is a masterful tribute to the manuscripts on which the union agreement was originally signed. With key photographs and interactive audio-visual exhibits, visitors can experience the UAE's archival symbolism in a creative manner. Located in Jumeriah St. 1, it's open daily from 10am to 8pm.
For more information visit etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae Old Souq
This expansive area is nothing short of lavish gold jewellery, handwoven fabrics, traditional oud perfumes and exquisite souvenirs. For visitors and tourists wanting to take back a piece of the UAE, they can opt for bespoke jewellery pieces as a special memento. Known for an array of exotic spices, this neighbourhood has a plethora of high-quality spices and locally-blended teas to take home. Additionally, visitors can discover the colourful textile market in the heart of Bur Dubai. Hatta Heritage Village
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Visit Hatta (@visit.hatta)
Go back in time to the life of ancient villagers with a host of citadels, forts and towers in Dubai's mountain town. With springs and lush valleys, visitors can experience the life of villagers who have adopted a sustainable technique of living. To visit nature's beauty first-hand, the Hatta Dam provides activities such as kayaking for that picturesque spot. For an insight into the UAE's traditional techniques, visitors can view the villagers' inherited traditions that include jewellery making, weaponry, pottery and more for an ideal afternoon getaway. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by SMCCU (@smccudubai)
Founded in 1998, this centre was founded to educate expats from different communities living and visiting the UAE. Located in a beautifully restored wind tower house in the historic, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai, where visitors can interact with local Emiratis and learn about traditional cuisine. With a 360-degree experience, guests can take a seat on the Bedouin-style carpets and indulge in a traditional Emirati meal, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner and experience a guided tour of the neighbourhood.
For more information visit cultures.ae Arabian Tea House
To experience fine Emirati hospitality, this venue has provided the first Emirati cuisine since 1997. With authentic elements such as rattan chairs, lace curtains, turquoise benches, visitors can enjoy a cup of traditional Arabic coffee known as gahwa to explore the city's past. As a relaxing oasis to talk and unwind, customers can go back in time to when old architecture reigned supreme. This concept is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood which was previously known as Al Bastakiya.
For more information visit arabianteahouse.com Dubai Museum
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by DUBAI MUSEUM (@dubaimuseum)
To delve into life before the discovery of oil, this ancient museum takes visitors on an unseen journey in a quaint, low-slung military fort from the 1700s. From pearl diving to fishing, light is shed upon ancient occupation and other archaeological finds. The galleries recreate scenes from the creek, traditional Arab houses, mosques, the souk, date farms and desert and marine life. Again, the museum is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Built in 1787, this fort was once the monarch's base and highlights the history of the UAE. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @dubaimuseum
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
What's On
41 minutes ago
- What's On
Emiratis can now renew their UAE passport up to one year before expiry
Starting August 18, 2025, Emiratis can renew their UAE passport up to one year before the expiry date. Previously, the limit was just six months. How it works The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) says the new rule applies to any passport with 12 months or less left. Renewals can be done easily through the ICP smart services platform, without visiting a service centre in person. The digital process makes it faster and more convenient for everyone. Why this change? Ali Mohammed Al Shamsi, chairman of the authority, says the move is all about making life easier for citizens. With the new rule, people can plan trips well in advance, avoid last-minute passport problems, and complete official paperwork more efficiently. It also encourages the wider use of digital identity services. Al Shamsi adds that this step strengthens the UAE's reputation for efficient government services and sets a benchmark for the region. UAE passport power The UAE passport is ranked one of the 10 strongest in the world in 2025, reflecting the country's growing influence on the global stage. It allows Emirati citizens to travel to 184 countries without a visa or with a visa-on-arrival, making international travel faster and more convenient. This is a significant improvement from previous years and highlights the passport's increasing strength and value. Here's the recent progress in global rankings: 2022 and 2023: Ranked 15th 2024: Ranked 11th 2025: Ranked 8th The steady rise in ranking shows how the UAE has invested heavily in improving mobility for its citizens, making it easier for them to travel for business, education, or leisure. It also reflects the country's strong diplomatic relations worldwide, which continue to open doors for Emiratis across the globe. Experts say this trend is likely to continue, further solidifying the UAE passport as a symbol of national pride and global connectivity. This move makes UAE passport renewal easier, quicker, and more efficient, while also highlighting the country's commitment to high-quality government services and improving citizens' everyday lives. Image: What's On Archive > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
The National
3 hours ago
- The National
Emiratis can renew UAE passports up to a year before they expire
Emiratis will be able to renew their passports up to a year before they expire from Monday. The extended period – up from the previous six months – was announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). Most countries require visitors to have at least six months left on their passports to be allowed to travel. There are some exceptions, with New Zealand, Iceland, Sweden and Albania requiring three months. 'The move aims to improve citizens' quality of life by enabling them to plan overseas travel in advance, complete necessary procedures seamlessly and expand the use of digital official documents,' said ICP director Ali Al Shamsi. 'It is also part of the authority's strategy to provide proactive and innovative government services.' The UAE passport continues to rank among the world's most powerful and trusted travel documents, he added. It moved into the top 10 of the Henley Passport Index for the first time in 2024. The country was ranked ninth with visa-free access to 185 countries, an increase of 152 countries since the index began in 2006. 'The new order will further strengthen the UAE passport's global standing and set a benchmark for passport issuance and renewal systems worldwide,' he said. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai renewed 7,425 UAE passports during the first half of 2025. The centre has issued 139,000 passports for Emiratis since its inauguration in 2008.
Gulf Today
10 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Pakistani cuisine unites cultures across the UAE
Pakistani restaurants across the UAE have gained popularity not only among the South- Asian expats but also among Emiratis, Arabs and other nationalities. Known for their bold spices, generous portions, and rich culinary traditions, these eateries draw a diverse crowd in a country that's home to people from over 200 nationalities. As the UAE's food scene continues to grow, Pakistani cuisine is carving out a strong and rising presence. Many well-known Pakistani food outlets include Al Nawab Restaurant, Gul Khan, Karachi Darbar, Butt Karahi, Yasir Broast, Bar B Q Tonight, Lal Qila, Cakes & Bakes and Rahat Bakery among many others. Gulf Today spoke to executives from three popular Pakistani eateries who said they're seeing more diverse customers coming in for the authentic taste and welcoming vibe. Jhanzeb Yaseen, Owner of Al Nawab Restaurant, said: 'Over the years, we've seen people from all backgrounds, including Omanis, Russians, and Emiratis, connect with Pakistani food in a way that goes beyond just taste. They're drawn to the rich- ness of our flavours, the warmth in our hospitality, and the sense of togetherness our meals create.' A Pakistani man cooks grilled meat at the Charsi Tikka restaurant in Namak Mandi in Peshawar. AFP 'At Al Nawab, we have always believed that food is a language of its own. Many of our guests prefer milder, creamier dishes like Chicken Malai Boti, Khoya Kabab, Reshmi Kabab, and White Handi, but what truly keeps them coming back is the comfort they find in the experience. Pakistani cuisine has a unique way of bringing people together, and here in Sharjah, it's been our privilege to be a part of that connection,' Jhanzeb added. Dr Noor Ul Sabah, Owner of Chai Shai Café, shared how the café captures the essence of Pakistan and attracts a wide range of customers belonging to different nationalities. 'Chai Shai Café in Ajman is a vibrant tribute to Pakistan's culinary and cultural heritage. From the moment you step inside, the colourful truck art walls, intricate patterns, and traditional décor transport you to the lively streets of Lahore and Karachi,' Noor explained. 'The ambiance is warm and nostalgic, buzzing with the sounds of Pakistani music and the aromas of freshly cooked favourites. Known for its street food authenticity, we serve iconic dishes like Anday Wala Burger, Thele Wala Soda, and Malai Boti Roll. Dessert lovers can't resist the indulgent Falooda, a treat loved by guests from all nationalities,' she said. 'For those craving rich, savory comfort, the creamy Malai Boti Handi is a star on the menu and a favourite among Arab visitors. More than just a restaurant, Chai Shai is a cultural hub, hosting Urdu poetry nights, literary gatherings, and national day celebrations — where food, art, and community meet,' Noor added. Zahid Ali Khan, founder of Gul Khan Restaurant, highlighted the cultural connection his restaurant fosters. 'It's a true honour to witness people from all nationalities living in the UAE, as well as tourists from around the world, embracing the authentic taste of Northern Pakistani cuisine at Gul Khan Restaurant. Our mission has always been to bring the rich, bold flavours of Peshawar to Dubai through dishes like chapli kebab, charsi karahi, kabuli pulao, and Bannu pulao, all crafted using traditional recipes passed down through generations,' Khan shared. 'What makes us most proud is not just the food, but the full cultural experience our guests enjoy — from the vibrant Pashtoon-inspired ambiance and truck art décor to the warm hospitality that reflects our heritage. In a city as beautifully diverse as Dubai, it's incredibly heartening to see our culture connect with so many. We sincerely thank every guest for being a part of our journey,' he concluded.
