One Dubai

Old Dubai

Wind tower in the Bastakiya district

Ship atop the Dubai Museum

• Al Ahmadiya School, Deira. Built in 1912, this was Dubai’s first school and has now been nicely restored. It would be a stretch to call the exhibits of old reed pens and diplomas fascinating, but they’ve tried pretty hard, and if nothing else, the air-con and clean toilets may come in handy. Free entry.

• Bastakiya District. One of the last remaining pockets of “old Dubai”, home to many reconstructed buildings in the traditional style. While information on the structures is slim here (see the museum in preference), the atmosphere is very evocative and there are plenty of delightful art galleries and cafes to explore.

• Dubai Museum, Al Ibn Abi Talib Road, ph: +971 (4) 353-1862. A must-see for anyone interested in the social history of the Emirate (and indeed the country). A visit starts at the al-Fahidi fort, which has a few examples of the traditional reed houses and other artifacts, but isn’t much to look at. The more interesting part is the modern extension built underneath the fort, showcasing Dubai’s history using the latest technology and culminating in a reconstructed souq from the pearling days, complete with authentic sights and sounds. It’s quite fascinating to see the speed at which the transition from poor pearling village to modern metropolis occurred. Admission 3AED.

• Jumeirah Mosque, Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah 1 (opposite Palm Strip Mall). Generally considered to be one of the more attractive mosques in the region, as well as one of the few which are open to non-Muslims for tours. Tours run on Thursdays and are followed by a question-and-answer session about Islam for those who want to know more.

• Shindagha District — Home to the open museums of the Heritage Village, and has the home of former Sheikh Rashid Al-Maktoum.

 Modern Dubai

The Burj al-Arab hotel seen from a nearby hotel.

Don’t miss Dubai’s overwhelming shopping malls, listed under Buy.

• Burj al-Arab hotel . For a real glimpse into “how the other half lives”, (self-proclaimed as the only 7 star hotel in the world), afternoon tea, or cocktails, may be an interesting experience. Entry to the hotel requires a reservation which will be confirmed at the entry gate, although residents of adjacent Jumeirah hotels may be able to visit by arrangement. Other tourists may occasionally be able to book tours of the hotel itself, however these will not run when the hotel is full. A “very smart casual” dress code applies. Reservations are usually required about a month in advance for a room, but a few days will generally suffice for a meal.

• Burj Dubai— Already the world’s tallest structure and still growing taller every day, this is one landmark you cannot possibly miss seeing. The exact final height remains a mystery, but it has already passed 600m (100m taller than Taipei 101, the previous record-holder) and is expected to pass 800m before completion in late 2009.

• Palm Islands— The three largest artificial islands in the world.