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History & Evolution
Originally Dubai was a small trading port clustered around the mouth of the Creek. It gradually originated from a fishing village inhabited in 18th century, though the rich collection of objects from 1st century BC and 6th century AD are evident of much ancient history of the city. Today’s Dubai is the product of past 20 years of intensive development.

This development actually began in early 19th century when some 800 members of the Bani Yas tribe and Al Bu Falasah, moved north and settled in Dubai. The Inhabitants of the tribe lived by fishing, pearling, and herding sheep and goats. By the end of the century, the city became and important trading port and consequently, by early 1900s, almost a quarter of the population was foreign. The population largely consists of Persians, Baluchis, many Indians and substantial communities from Bahrain, Kuwait and Hasa and in 1954, the British established a political agency there as well.

In 1971, when the British withdrew, Dubai joined Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Aiman, Umm Al Quwain, Fajairah and later Ras Al Khaimah to create the federation of the United Arab Emirates. In 1966, oil was discovered and by 1969 Dubai exported its first shipment of oil.

The discovery of oil fueled the rapid development of the area whereby, Dubai worked to build up its infrastructure of transport facilities, schools, hospitals, tourism developments and other amenities of an advanced society. The journey continues today.

Site-Seeing
Dubai's attraction lies in the contrast between ultra modern and enchantingly traditional or between high standards of luxury and convenience. Along with exotic Arabia in the bustling ultra modern souks, visitors can also experience a traditional Arabian night in a Bedouin tent with belly dancing under the starlit desert skies.

Dubai offers an extensive horizon of things to do, see, experience and learn i.e. from desert oases, unspoiled beaches, camel races and old wind towers to top-class shopping opportunities, ancient architecture and the finest international cuisine, the city has it all.

Within the city, one can find amazing beach resorts, incredibly high tech buildings side by side with old traditional houses and mosques giving you a peek of just what variety you can expect from your time in Dubai.

Bastakiya:
The old Bastakiya district of Dubai will take you back in times when there were no electricity and air-conditioning. In those days a mass of wind towers used to keep the local houses cool. This district is still laden with those traditional courtyard houses, which were cooled by wind towers.

Today the narrow lanes of the district furbishing with distinctively Arabian architecture are a popular historical attraction that has been marked for tourist development. Therefore, Bastakiya is currently undergoing renovation, with improved visitor facilities planned for its transformation into a 'tourist village'.

Location: Al-Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai

Souks (markets):
One of the greatest attractions of Dubai, these souks are the traditional markets popular for bargain hunters as well as sightseers and photographers. Located on both sides of the creek, their basic highlights are colorful Spice Markets, which abounds with exotic aromas and bustles with locals.

Wandering around these souks is a best way to get in touch with how life was in Dubai, before oil was discovered. The most famous of these souks are the gold souk where the streets are lined up with shops selling everything golden from 24-carat bars to rings and elaborate necklaces and all at low prices. Then there is this Bur Dubai souk selling the latest electronics, photographic equipment and home appliances at competitive prices. Other streets sell everything from materials and carpets to traditional coffeepots, loaves of unleavened bread and hubble-bubble pipes.

Some of the other famous souks of the city are Deira Covered Souk, Perfume Souk and Electronics Souk.

Location: Deira and Bur Dubai

Grand Mosque:
With its multi-domed style and impressive size, Grand Mosque is a notable landmark of Dubai boasting the city's tallest minaret at 230-ft (70m). The mosque was rebuilt in 1998 and is home to nine large domes, 45 small domes together accommodating up to 1,200 worshippers. However, non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the Mosque.

An important place of worship, the Grand Mosque is famous for its beautiful architecture and vast quantities of stained glass.

Location: Al Mussalla Road

Dubai Museum:
Built around 1799, Dubai Museum was once a Fort named Al Fahidi, which used to serve as palace, garrison and prison and was guard to city’s landward approaches. The fort was renovated as a museum in 1970, which today houses colorful and evocative dioramas vividly depicting everyday life in pre-oil days.

Also on display are artifacts of fine copper, alabaster and pottery found in 3,000 – 4,000 year ago while the main fort is a fascinating military museum. However, one of the most spectacular exhibits portrays the underwater world of pearl diving.

Location: Al-Fahidi Road

Dubai Creek:
Mesmerizing its spectators is this most beautiful and picturesque location of Dubai, The Creek. It is a natural seawater inlet cutting in the heart of the city with an enchanting view of a large number of colorful and traditional Arab dhows, abras (motorized boat taxis) and sleek yachts with water birds splashing all over.

Walking along the Creek or taking a ride on abra is a best way to view the old trading port and explore the beauty of Dubai. While the spectacular view of Dubai's skyline is an another spell bounding attraction of the creek. There is also a cruise to Al-Maktoum Bridge, which pass many of the city’s historic as well as modern landmarks of the city.

Location: The Creek