Dubai is known worldwide for its towering skyscrapers, luxury malls and expensive restaurants, but behind that glittering facade the emirate also holds historic quarters, traditional wooden boats and street food, according to a report by the Daily Mail.
Despite tensions in the Middle East, life in Dubai continues at its usual pace. Hotels, restaurants and shops are open as normal, and the tourism sector is recovering after previously imposed restrictions, the report said.
Fewer travelers visit in summer because of the heat, with daytime temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. The tourist season picks up closer to November, when the weather cools.
Where to find old Dubai
One way to see a different side of the city is to head to Dubai Creek, a saltwater inlet that has served as a major trade route for generations, linking merchant routes between Persia, East Africa and India.
Traditional wooden boats known as abras still cross today between the Deira and Bur Dubai districts, with a ride costing just 1 dirham.
Nearby lies the historic Al Fahidi district, with narrow lanes, sandstone-colored buildings and traditional wind towers. The area retains the atmosphere of old Dubai, in sharp contrast to the modern architecture of the city center.
Dubai surprises with art
Another unusual destination is Alserkal Avenue, in the industrial Al Quoz district. Former warehouses and factory buildings have been converted into a creative cluster housing contemporary art galleries, an independent cinema, cafes, food trucks and fitness studios.
The neighborhood resembles the creative districts of major European cities and appeals particularly to those interested in contemporary art, music and unconventional spaces.
A surprising food scene
Dubai's dining scene is far more varied than the usual selection of hotel restaurants, largely because of the emirate's international population, most of whom were born outside the United Arab Emirates.
Among the fine-dining spots is Orfali Bros, a restaurant awarded a Michelin star, whose menu blends Syrian culinary traditions with modern gastronomic techniques.
Another option is Tresind, which specializes in modern Indian cuisine, presenting traditional dishes in unusual forms.
Those who prefer simpler fare can try the Mexican restaurant Taqueria El Primo, where long lines form for tacos and tostadas.
Visitors can also explore the city's lesser-known food scene through walking tours of Dubai's neighborhoods, which combine tastings from different national cuisines with the history of the city.
Other UAE news
It was previously reported that Dubai's luxury hotels had sharply cut prices due to a shortage of tourists, as hotels did everything possible to attract visitors and hoped for a return to busier times.
Dubai also opened what was described as the world's first beach reserved for women only, where strict visiting rules apply.
