Amazing Dubai Creek facts

Located in the heart of Dubai, the Creek separates two major districts that have played a big role in the transformation of Dubai into the megacity it is today; Deira and Bur Dubai. Though the Creek is essentially a saltwater inlet, it has become a hub of commercial and residential activity in the city over the years. Still one of the leading tourist destinations in the city, these Dubai Creek facts will certainly entertain history buffs and the those with a love for all things retro. MyBayut has come up with Dubai Creek facts sheet to answer all your questions about this eminently photographable location in Dubai.

Some Fun Dubai Creek Facts

Dubai Creek was historically known for being between Deira and Bur Dubai, and ending at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. After the creek was extended into the Dubai Water Canal, its waters now also flow through the Business Bay and Jumeirah areas. Old-style buildings, a mystic aura and traditional style wooden dhows are what most people think of when you mention the Dubai Creek. But there are some unfamiliar facts about Dubai Creek history that will amaze you. Read on to explore what you don’t know about the area that reflects the rich Arabian tradition of hospitality.

Dubai Creek Historical Facts

The history of the Dubai Creek area is richer than you think. Not only is it this the emirate’s first major port, but is also full of historical significance.

• Dubai Creek has served as a safe harbour to trade along with other ports of Arabian Gulf.
• The creek split through the ground in the 1950s to form a small canal.
• The Greeks used to refer to the Dubai Creek as River Zara. 
• Historically, the creek did not have any circulation. The water just flows in from the sea and ends abruptly at the Ras Al Khaor sanctuary.
• The Al Maktoum dynasty was formed on the banks of the creek when the Bani Yas tribe decided to settle down here. The current ruling family of Dubai are descendants of these early settlers.   
• Under the rule of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, an expansion which was 4000 ft. long and six ft. deep was planned.
• First dredged in 1961, where the loading and unloading of cargo began.
• Dubai Creek was the hub for trading gold, spices and fresh catches from Arabian waters.

Dubai Creek Facts in Numbers

• The creek was considered a free trade zone in 1902 under Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher. During the same period, the creek became a major trading hub.
• 1937 was the first time when a plane landed in the Dubai Creek area carrying from Southampton to Karachi. One of the amazing Dubai Creek facts is that eight seaplanes a week were landing in the area during World War II.
• 1955 was the year when the creek was dredged deeper and wider since large vessels could not enter the creek. Afterwards, a 500 tonnes ship could anchor at Dubai Creek which contributed to the surge in trade around that time.
• The first bridge in Dubai, Maktoum Bridge was constructed in 1963 over the creek to connect Deira and Bur Dubai. This Dubai Creek Bridge prevented travellers from embarking on a long waterway journey to reach land.
• The Dubai Creek was a centre for pearl divers. As many as 3000 boats were used for pearling in the creek, with divers departing in May and not returning for up to four months. 
• In 1989, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, came up with the plan to launch the stunning Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.
• 2007 was the year when a modern construction plan worth $132 million for Dubai Creek development was finished.
• The Tower Dubai will be completed by 2020 and is located in Dubai Creek harbour. There are some interesting facts about The Creek Tower Dubai that will be a breathtaking landmark overshadowing Burj Khalifa.

Facts about the Importance of Dubai Creek

The entire Dubai Creek area is reminiscent of the lost Arabian world. 

• Both sides of the Dubai Creek are surrounded with old-style markets, heritage buildings and museums.
• There are traditional style wooden dhows, bustling souks and wind towers called Barjeels that define the traditional life of the Emiratis.
• One can also find old-style markets or the famous souks of Dubai, where gold jewellery, spices, perfumes and leather goods were first introduced in the 1950s.
• You can immerse in the pleasant smell of perfumes and spices from across the creek which also attracts the tourists.
• History lovers can explore more by visiting the Al Fahidi historical distric, one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free. It is a perfect place to glimpse old architecture including traditional desert homes in the UAE.
• Nature lovers can spot flamingos that migrate to Ras Al Khor, a wetland extension of the creek spread over 6.2 sq.km and features a variety of mangroves and lagoons perfect for migrating birds. The sanctuary is home to over 180 species of birds. 
• Dubai Creek is also a huge hotspot for the city’s fishing industry due to its shallow waters. It is home to diverse marine life.
• The Dubai Creek is still one of the leading tourist attractions in the city and has over tens of thousands of visitors every day. The newly launched Al Seef development also has hosts fireworks over the Dubai Creek during special occasions such as Eid, New Year and Christmas. 

Fascinating things to do near Dubai Creek

Want to experience Arab traditions and hospitality? Dubai Creek is home to some of the best traditional markets in Dubai.

• There are a number of stalls where you can test your bargaining skills for perfumes, jewellery and Arabian coffee.
• One can also come across textile souqs to browse the fabrics. At nights these souqs are lit by traditional lamps that enhance the ambience of the area.
• If you want to experience on-water dining in Dubai, this town is one of the best places. There is a platform restaurant just above the water at the Dubai Creek Golf Club to savour food while sightseeing.
• You can also have a fine-dining experience at a floating restaurant with a glass roof at Bateaux Dubai. It serves a wide variety of international dishes including fresh seafood between 07:00 pm and 10:30 pm daily.
• Dubai Creek Cruise is another attraction to enhance sightseeing experience that also features an international buffet dinner.

FAQs

What is Dubai Creek?

Dubai Creek also called Khor Dubai is a saltwater inlet that separates Bur Dubai and Deira. It boasts traditional markets, souks and natural seawaters as well as high-rise buildings. Dubai Creek is home to some of the city’s leading entertainment venues, museums and dining options that also unveil the real identity of Dubai.

How wide is Dubai Creek?

It is 14 kilometres or 8.7 miles from its origin at the Persian Gulf. It is wide enough to welcome large vessels for trade and transport between the eastern and western areas of Dubai.

How to get to Dubai Creek?

From the Dubai International Airport, it is 15 minutes’ drive crossing Al Garhoud Bridge that connects Bur Dubai and Deira area. There is also the Al Maktoum bridge and Business Bay Bridge that connects both the areas. There are buses, metros and ferries to reach Dubai Creek from Deira.

What are the things to do at Dubai Creek?

There is a range of options to go from sports to nightlife in this area. You can engage in many different Creek Park Dubai activities as it is perfect for a wonderful family day out. If you are into sports, there is the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club that hosts tournaments for the enthusiasts.

The dinner on a floating platform at Bateaux Dubai is another popular activity among tourists and residents. Besides this, there are museums, old-style souks and many other landmarks to explore. You can also opt for Dubai Creek boat rides for sightseeing traditional architecture across the waters. Another attraction in the pipeline will be Dubai Creek Tower that will be completed by 2020. This Dubai Creek Harbour Tower will be a new attraction for Dubai Creek tourists. 

Where is Dubai Creek Harbour location?

Dubai Creek Harbour is located in the Ras Al Khor area, connected with main Ras Al Khor road. It is just opposite to Al Jaddaf area of Bur Dubai. The Creek Tower is a part of Dubai Creek project that is under construction in this area.

What about Nightlife in Dubai Creek?

Dubai Creek becomes a hub of nightlife options as the sun goes down. Thanks to the new Al Seef development on the banks of the creek, there are plenty of trendy restaurants and bars to hit near Dubai Creek. For party-goers, there is a selection of lively bars and entertainment venues in the region.

Is Dubai Creek man-made?

It is one of the natural waterfront areas which extended in 1955 to enhance the transport and trade operations. Now it can accommodate the largest vessels from Arabian Gulf for trade in the Dubai Creek.

Where to stay near Dubai Creek?

There are several options for accommodation between mid-range to luxurious hotels in Bur Dubai area. For instance, Zabeel House Al Seef and XVA art hotel are some of the trendy options if you are looking for hotels near Dubai Creek.

That sums up all about Dubai Creek facts and details. While you are at it, there are some mind-blowing facts about Palm Jumeirah that’s sure to surprise you. If you love living near the water, these waterfront communities in Dubai with luxurious facilities are perfect for you.