Old Dubai to get new look

A number of streets in Bur Dubai, Al Fahidi and Deira will be converted into pedestrian walkways to facilitate better access as Dubai’s historical district undergoes a massive redevelopment to become the city’s cultural epicentre.

An announcement made by the Dubai Government’s Media Office on February 3 said the Historical District, the oldest part of the city centred around Khor Dubai (Dubai Creek), will be revamped under a major initiative, led by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), Dubai Municipality and Dubai Culture. The three-year project will cover four key districts – Shindagha, Bur Dubai, Al Fahidi and Deira.

The conversion of streets into pedestrian walkways in Bur Dubai, Al Fahidi and Deira is to enable easier access to upgraded public areas, including Alsabkhah Square. “This is expected to bring visitors closer to shops and experiences along the paths. Upgrades include the expansion of visitor parking capacities across all areas of the historical district including the additional parking area for Shindagha from Mina Rashed.

More than 60 projects have been planned as part of the overall redevelopment spanning 1.5 sq km. They include the Al Shindagha Museum which will feature 17 pavilions and 50 collections of historical and cultural exhibits, as well as a promenade that will connect the Shindagha area all the way to Al Fahidi district – enabling visitors to walk seamlessly between the areas. They also include the Al Fahidi Fort and Al Sabkhah as part of the largest open air historic district built around Khor Dubai.