Dubai · Attraction
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: old Dubai on foot
On the banks of Dubai Creek, in Bur Dubai, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood preserves much of the original fabric of mid-19th-century Dubai: wind towers, narrow lanes and more than 50 houses that now hold museums, galleries and cultural spaces.
Essential information
- Opening hours
- Opening times differ from house to house.
- Tickets
- Free entry to the Coffee Museum; Visit Dubai advises booking SMCCU meals early.
- Getting there
- Al Fahidi St, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai; the SMCCU is on Al Musalla Rd.
- Time to allow
- Allow at least two hours, more with an SMCCU meal.
The neighbourhood
Visit Dubai describes Al Fahidi as a key heritage site where much of the original infrastructure is preserved and intact. The traditional wind towers were built from sandstone, teak, gypsum, palm wood and sandalwood, and every alley and twisting pathway tells a story of life before the seven emirates united.
The winding streets lead to museums, art galleries, cultural activities and traditional food. The district also hosts events such as the Sikka Art and Design Festival and Heritage Week, which appear on the Dubai Calendar.
What to see
- SMCCU: a beautifully restored wind tower house and the suggested starting point for a tour of the district.
- Coffee Museum (Villa 44): the story of coffee from the legend of Kaldi, the goat herder, and its journey from the Ethiopian highlands, with First World War grinders and old brewing pots. Free entry, shop on the ground floor.
- Coins Museum: the monetary systems of the British Empire, India and the region before independence.
- Symposium House and Events House, which often stage cultural events and demonstrations by local craftsmen.
- Municipality House, a remarkable example of traditional Dubai architecture.
A meal and a conversation at the SMCCU
Open since 1998, the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding helps visitors understand the culture and customs of the UAE through Arabic classes, heritage tours and guided mosque visits.
Its Emirati breakfast, lunch or dinner is served on Bedouin-style carpets and cushions while a local host answers questions about life in the emirate. Under the motto "Open Doors, Open Minds", no question is off limits. Visit Dubai advises booking early to guarantee a place.
Planning your visit
The neighbourhood is on Al Fahidi St, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai; the SMCCU is on Al Musalla Rd. Your High Class private driver can drop you at the lanes and collect you when you are ready. Opening times differ from house to house. The High Class team confirms everything for your date on WhatsApp before the programme is booked.
Afterwards, continue to the souks across the Creek or head to Dubai Frame to round off the day.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Coffee Museum free?
Yes. Visit Dubai states that entry is free, with the museum shop on the ground floor.
Do I need to book the SMCCU meal?
Visit Dubai recommends booking early to guarantee a place. The High Class team can arrange it as part of your day.
Official sources consulted (3)
- Visit Dubai, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. https://www.visitdubai.com/en/places-to-visit/al-fahidi-historical-neighbourhood Consulted on .
- Visit Dubai, Coffee Museum. https://www.visitdubai.com/en/places-to-visit/coffee-museum Consulted on .
- Visit Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). https://www.visitdubai.com/en/places-to-visit/sheikh-mohammed-centre-for-cultural-understanding-smccu Consulted on .
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