Bur Dubai enthrals

Located on the western side of the creek which divides it from Diera, the place literally means Mainland Dubai. Popular for its eclectic shopping and the bargains available, it is also home to historic monuments and museums and the Grand Mosque.

The administrative offices of Dubai are housed in the Diwan building constructed in 1990 and is instantly recognisable by its white façade and black railings.

The famous abra (water taxi) station is at the centre of Bur Dubai and thousands use it to cross the waterway daily. The souks are garish and noisy retail centres with sellers engaging buyers with some promises of more than just good deals.

There is an old world charm about the inner Bur Dubai at Bastikiya and the clustered buildings huddled like little children have largely kept away the chrome and steel of modern architecture. There has been an effort to convert Bur Dubai into an island and with neighbouring Karama it is also now a middle class enclave replete with the infrastructure and still a much coveted place to stay. A little further away, modern living has made its presence felt and gated communities enjoy a global lifestyle just five minutes away from the traditional cobbled streets.

Hotels that are affordable are usually doing brisk business and their location offers easy access to the malls with the Metro now having given transportation a major lift.

The area is also known as the traditional financial district and the heritage and diving village is located in the Al Shindagha part of the area.