Going through small alleys, passing traditional buildings and courtyards. Seeing small boutique hotels with narrow doors where tourists bump their heads. And everywhere windmills that are used as air conditioning. That's Bastakiya, the historic district in Bur Dubai. Home to the Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum and  Majlis Gallery. The Persian influence is truly noticeable here, the houses made of clay, shells and limestone adorned with plenty of Arabic art. Today, they all have landmark status and are only refurbished with identical materials.

 

Although this district only makes up one per cent of the whole city you have to be there for once – in order to see and understand how people used to live here in former times. Furthermore the narrow lanes offer the ideal protection against the sun. It's perfect for rummaging in the little stores, and visiting the numerous ateliers and galleries which do not only excite those interested in history but art fans as well.