Take a trip back in time: Old buildings in Dubai
Before Dubai became the mega metropolis it is today, there were only two landmarks that indicated arrival in the city — the Toyota Building and Dubai World Trade Centre. Any mention of “Dubai’s old buildings” conjures up images of these two for those who have grown up in the emirate or have seen it grow to the skyscraper city it is today. But those are not the only structures that have withstood the test of time. Here is a guide to the rest of the emirate’s oldest buildings.
Toyota Building
The Toyota Building was built in 1974 and was named so because of a neon sign on top of it. At the time it was built, the Toyota Building was one of only three on Sheikh Zayed Road (E11). It was also among Dubai’s first residential complexes. It is officially known as Nasser Rashid Lootah Building. The popular neon signage was taken off in 2018 but was restored in 2022 after Toyota reinstated its advertising contract with the NRL Group, owners of the building. Another reason for the return of the signage was popular demand following a survey.
The tower is made up of two blocks and stands at 15-storeys high. While the structure has undergone some changes over the years, it has largely withstood the test of time.
Dubai World Trade Centre
Dubai World Trade Centre, also known as DWTC, was constructed in 1979. It was formerly inaugurated as Sheikh Rashid Tower by Queen Elizabeth and renamed to its original moniker after the death of Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
The DWTC building was the tallest in Dubai for many years before it was dethroned. While the 39-storey tower hardly stands alone as it first did, it is still in full use. It serves as a premier event space with over 185 countries represented. A rich history and popularity makes it rank among the most iconic buildings in Dubai.
Al Fahidi Fort
For most, a search for Dubai’s old buildings includes Al Fahidi Fort. Constructed in 1781, it is the oldest structure in the city. The fort is located in Dubai’s historic Al Fahidi district.
Al Fahidi Fort served as the official headquarters of Dubai’s ruling family during the late 1700s onwards. It was used to defend the emirate against any landward attacks. In 1971, the fort was refurbished for use as a museum and named the Dubai Museum. It is now home to exhibits that showcase life in the emirate as it was in its pre-oil era. Here, visitors can also find scenes depicting Emirati homes, desert life, souqs and more.
Bayt Al Wakeel Museum and Restaurant
Few among Dubai’s old buildings are still standing. One of them is Bayt Al Wakeel which was built from coral, wood beams and mud way back in 1935. It is now home to a maritime museum and heritage eatery with a deck that rises over the Dubai Creek. From the deck, visitors can watch dhows and abras gliding by. Make your trip more memorable with Dubai Creek facts!
The 75-year-old heritage site takes visitors back to the 1930s as much of the structure remains unchanged. It previously served as a rendezvous point for seafarers bound for India, Iraq and South Bombay. Bayt Al Wakeel is the name of the restaurant housed here and means “house of the agent” in Arabic.
Deira Clock Tower
This structure doesn’t exactly count as one of the old buildings in Dubai, because it isn’t one. However, Deira Clock Tower still deserves mention owing to its historical significance.
The landmark, formerly known as Dubai Clock Tower, was constructed in 1963 and signifies the first passage on land between Bur Dubai and Deira. It leads to Al Maktoum Bridge. You can find it on the intersection of Umm Hurrair Road and D89. Deira Clock Tower was later renovated in 1972 with sturdier materials.
FAQs
Where can I explore Dubai’s old architecture?
A good place to start would be the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, at the banks of the Dubai Creek. Most of the buildings here were built with materials like gypsum and coral, all of which have been preserved.
What are other historical places worth a visit?
The historical places in Dubai give visitors a glimpse into how the nation was like when pearl diving was the chief mode of commerce. Aside from Al Fahidi historical district, the list includes Hatta Heritage Village and Deira Clocktower.
What are the best attractions in the emirate?
Visiting for the first time? Apart from Dubai’s old traditional buildings, a sightseeing tour should also include the best attractions in Dubai. These include the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah to name a few.
That concludes our guide on Dubai’s old buildings. Stay tuned to MyBayut for more updates on all there is to see and do in the UAE!
