Your Complete Guide to Al Fahidi: What to Visit and Where to Eat
Key takeaways
Al Fahidi historical neighborhood takes you back in time with its narrow streets, traditional houses, and wind towers that tell stories of the past. Tourists like walking through this area, feeling the history all around, and enjoying modern touches like cozy cafés.
Everything is designed to facilitate your movement around the city. Although the Al Fahidi is best explored on foot, all other attractions and areas are recommended to be seen with the help of a comfortable car. You can generally relax and drive around without thinking about the roads if you rent a car with a driver or rent a premium car in Dubai for self-driving.
Trinity already knows the answer to any question regarding renting because you can expect:
- a car in perfect condition, with minimal mileage, delivered on time, to any place convenient for you;
- a choice of more than 80 luxury cars with no deposit rules;
- a tank of gas as a gift;
- 300 km per day are already included in the price;
- full insurance, VAT, and toll roads are also included in the price.
If you have any questions, your manager is ready to answer them anytime. Payment is accepted by cards, cash, and crypto.
Things to Do in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
The historic neighbourhood offers a glimpse into the heart of old city Dubai, dating back to the 1890s. Its small streets are lined with beautifully preserved houses featuring wind towers, a traditional way to keep cool. Read about the most interesting activities that blend heritage history with cultural experiences.
Visit Al Fahidi Fort
Tourists usually start with the fort, the oldest building in Dubai, located on Dubai Street. Built in 1787, this impressive fort houses a museum, though it’s currently closed for renovations until late 2025. You can still admire its sturdy walls and architecture from the outside. Try to imagine what life was like here centuries ago — it’s a true piece of Dubai’s history in the historical neighbourhood.
Explore the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in Al Bastakiya, on Al Mussallah Road, is a place we really enjoy visiting. It offers tours from Sunday to Thursday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, costing around 50 AED per person. You can learn about Dubai’s culture and traditions, and even try traditional food in a beautiful courtyard. Join a tour and listen to stories about Emirati life — it’s a perfect spot for a cultural museum experience.
Discover the Coffee Museum
The Coffee Museum at Villa 44 in Al Bastakiya is a hidden treasure we recommend checking out. It showcases over 300 antique coffee pots and offers insights into coffee-making history. It’s open Saturday to Thursday from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM, and Friday from 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Entry is just 3 AED for adults. Enjoy seeing the old tools and learning how coffee was made long ago — it’s a unique tradition in the historical neighbourhood.The museum is housed in a traditional Arabian building with wind towers, which creates an atmosphere of comfort and authenticity.
Visit the Coins Museum
The Coins Museum, near the Ruler’s Divan in Al Bastakiya, is another spot tourists like to visit. It displays 470 ancient coins, giving a peek into the region’s past. It’s open Saturday to Thursday from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM, and Friday from 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Entry is 3 AED for adults and free for kids under 12. Each coin is presented in special showcases with interactive touch screens that allow you to learn more about its history, material, minting method, and other characteristics.
Stroll Through XVA Art Gallery
XVA Art Gallery on street Dubai is another lovely place for exploring. Housed in a restored traditional house, it features art from local and regional artists, plus a small café. It’s open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and entry is free, though you can purchase artwork. Explore the courtyard setting and the way the gallery blends culture architecture—it’s a peaceful stop in the Al Fahidi historical neighbourhood.
Here’s a quick list of these attractions, their locations, and hours:
- Fort: Al Bastakiya Street, closed for renovation until late 2025.
- Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding: Al Mussallah Road, Sunday to Thursday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Coffee Museum: Villa 44, Al Bastakiya, Saturday to Thursday 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM, Friday 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
- Coins Museum: Al Bastakiya Street, Saturday to Thursday 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM, Friday 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
- XVA Art Gallery: Al Bastakiya Street, daily 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
These activities let you experience the charm of Al Bastakiya, immersing you in its rich history and culture.
Where to Eat in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
After wandering through Al Bastakiya, you’ll likely want to grab a bite at one of its cozy dining spots. From traditional Emirati dishes to lighter options, there’s something for everyone.
Arabian Tea House
Arabian Tea House on Al Fahidi Street Dubai is a very popular spot for traditional Emirati cuisine fans. They serve dishes like machboos—rice with meat—and luqaimat, sweet dumplings that are so tasty. It’s open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and a meal costs around 60 AED per person. Tourists like their Arabic coffee with dates once, it is the perfect way to start the meal. The courtyard café setting adds to the charm of history.
XVA Café
XVA Café, inside the XVA Art Gallery in Al Bastakiya, is another place for a lighter meal. They offer salads, cakes, and excellent coffee, perfect for a quick break. It’s open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and a meal costs about 50 AED. The specialty of this cafe is carrot cake — it’s so good after a morning of exploring. The courtyard setting makes it a cozy spot to relax in the historical neighbourhood.
Here are some other dishes recommended for trying while dining in Al Bastakiya:
- Arabic coffee with dates — a traditional start for an energetic day.
- Machboos at Arabian Tea House — a classic Emirati dish.
- Carrot cake at XVA Café — a sweet treat for children and adults.
These dining spots offer a taste of Al Bastakiya’s heritage while you soak in the historical surroundings.
FAQ
How Do You Get to Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood?
You can reach Al Bastakiya by metro — get off at Metro Station and walk a short distance. A bus to Al Ghubaiba stop is another option. We also offer car rentals for a convenient trip.
How Much Is the Entrance Fee for Historical Neighbourhood?
It’s free to walk around the historical neighbourhood. Some museums, like the Coins Museum, charge a small fee of 3 AED for adults, but entry to the area itself costs nothing.
Is Parking Available in Historical Neighbourhood?
Yes, parking is available in Al Bastakiya. You can use street parking or private lots, though both require payment. Street parking is generally cheaper, making it a good option.
When Was Al Fahidi Fort Built?
The fort was built in 1787, making it the oldest building in Dubai. It’s a fascinating piece of history you can see while exploring Al Bastakiya.