City of Merchants

A fascinating historical excursion. Our route takes us from Burj Al Arab; Dubai's landmark hotel to the Majlis Al Ghorfat, a magnificent structure constructed in 1955 and recently restored, originally the summer residence of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al-Maktoum. Driving past modern palaces we stop at Jumeirah Mosque for a photo opportunity. Next our route takes us towards Dubai's Bastakiya area to admire the old-wind-towered houses which were built by wealthy merchants, passing the magnificent Zabeel Palace on the way. Close by stands Al Fahidi Fort, a 200 year-old structure that houses the Dubai Museum and records the city's past as an important pearl diving and trading centre. We continue the journey on a traditional Abra. We cross Dubai Creek, offering sights of a modern metropolis on its banks with splendid architecture dwarfing the bustling alleys of our next destination - the Gold and Spice Souks.