Deira & Bur Dubai - Venue & Concept

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One of Dubai’s oldest neighbourhoods, a commercial district flanked by Dubai’s busy saline creek and an area where traditions remain unchanged from the significant changes that took place in the city from the ‘oil boom.’

What was once a sleepy fishing village, formed when members of the Bani Yas tribe (led by the Maktoum family) settled at the mouth of the creek in 1883, at that time the main industries were fishing and pearling. Over time the fishing village expanded and by the early twentieth century, the creek was home to a busy port, where ships would come from as far as Africa and India to trade. It is this melting pot of cultures, traditions and global influences that show just how multifaceted a city Dubai is.

Experiences, Tours & Landscapes

Dubai Creek

Historically, the creek divided the city into two main sections – Deira and Bur Dubai. In the early 20th century, the creek, though incapable then of supporting large scale transportation, served as a minor port for dhows coming from as far away as India or East Africa. Although it impeded the entry of ships due to current flow, the creek remained an important element in establishing the commercial position of Dubai, being the only port or harbour in the city. Dubai’s pearling industry, which formed the main sector of the city’s economy, was based primarily on expeditions in the creek, prior to the invention of cultured pearls in the 1930s. The creek’s initial inlet into mainland Dubai is along the Deira Corniche and Al Ras areas of eastern Dubai and along the Al Shindagha area of western Dubai. It then progresses south-eastward through the mainland, passing through Port Saeed and Dubai Creek Park. The creek’s natural ending is at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) from its origin at the Persian Gulf. The traditional form of transport between the eastern and western sections of Dubai via the creek was through abras (water boat), which continue to operate in Dubai for transportation and touristic purposes.

The Souks

Travel back in time to the heart of old Dubai where the bustling souks will treat your senses to rich sounds, sights and scents. Follow your nose to the Perfume Souk – home to Arabian scents such as oud – or indulge your desire for sought-after jewels and precious metals at the Gold Souk. Across Dubai Creek, wander through the Textile Souk in Bur Dubai to dig through swathes of brightly coloured silks and embroidered fabrics. Dubai also offers a modern take on the Arabian market. Souk Madinat Jumeirah in Madinat Jumeirah and Souk Al Bahar overlooking the Dubai Fountain both make great souvenir stops. There’s plenty of traditional shopping to be found at the famous Gold, Spice and Textile souks, which are worth a visit for their location in fascinating old Dubai.

Al Bastakiya Quarter

The oldest standing residential area of Dubai. First established at the end of the 19th century by rich textile and pearl merchants from Bastak, Iran, today the Bastik Quarter or Fahidi neighbourhood is a maze of old-world wonders. While taking a walk through the tight, winding alleyways, you will see ochre-coloured buildings made of coral, mud, gypsum and palm wood. When you look up, notice that the houses are adorned with towers. Wind towers are the traditional air conditioner of the Middle East; an old Persian invention that funnels cool air through a building. Most of the wooden doors that you will stumble on will lead to hotels, cafes and galleries, so go ahead, explore the old town.

The Frame

Dubai Frame is the most recent landmark added value to Dubai traditional and luxurious heritage. The project comprises a 150-metre-high, 93-metre-wide structure built to resemble a huge picture frame, through which landmarks representing modern Dubai such as Emirates Towers and Burj Khalifa can be seen on one side, while from the other side, visitors can view older parts of the city such as Deira, Umm Harare and Karama. Exterior design of Dubai Frame was inspired from the logo of Expo 2020. The past, present and the future of Dubai: witness three dimensions in one destination! Dubai Frame: past, present and future, three dimensions in one destination.

Nusret

This intimate restaurant with seamless terrace for inside-out dining, is buzzing with energy. The casual service is highly personal and involving.The founder, a master butcher for over 20 years, Nusret Gokce personally selects each and every cut of meat served in the restaurant, the master grillers complete the magic on the charcoal grill.

Activities

Helicopter Experience

Enjoy bird’s eye views of the exciting city of Dubai on board a luxury HeliDubai helicopter. You’ll feel like a rock star soaring over the beautiful Arabian Gulf coastline, and with the tailored and exclusive helicopter service, you can get an aerial scenic tour of the iconic Palm, the Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa! Prepare to be exhilarated.

Seawings Experience

Let Seawings Seaplane Tours take you on a magical journey across the ever-changing skyline of Dubai. Gently take off from the pristine waters of the Gulf and effortlessly ascend to spectacular views with five star service on every flight. Seawings delivers a once-in-a-lifetime luxury aerial experience the New York Times says is, “The number one thing to do in Dubai.”

Balloon Adventures

So close, yet so far from the glitz and the glamour of the city of Dubai – a magic carpet ride over an endless ocean of sand dunes, emerald green oases, oryx, gazelles and wandering camels. Witness a breathtaking sunrise with the backdrop of the majestic Hajjar Mountains and be welcomed by the warmth of the desert people we chance to meet on landing. A promise of adventure just a 30-minute drive from Burj Khalifa!

Craft Your Journey With Us

At Venue and Concept, every journey is a masterpiece of personalized experiences, curated with elegance, authenticity, and impeccable care. Let’s bring your dream destination to life.

Venue and Concept is a bespoke travel and lifestyle brand specializing in curating personalized luxury experiences across the UAE and the Philippines, blending seamless service with authentic discovery.

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