Dubai Fort is situated at the south of Dubai Creek, at the Al Souk Al Kabir area which teems with vigorous trade and is close to the Ruler's Court (the monarch's divan). It was built back in 1787, about 200 years ago, as the premises of the monarch and a fort of defence, since it sat on the border of the urban Dubai at the time. Later on, this fort turned into an arsenal for artillery and weapons. It was also used as a prison for the outlaws. This fort was renovated during the reign of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. It was opened in 1971 (the year the federation was formed), to be an official museum that displays the history of Dubai and its original heritage. In 1995, another underground museum was established and added to the old fort.

Abra comes from the Arabic verb “Abara” which means to cross. Take a ride on the Dubai Abra, the city’s most traditional mode of transport. For centuries, it has remained one of Dubai’s most frequented modes of transport, making it the symbol of the city ’s history and heritage

A trip to Dubai isn't complete without a trip to the famous Gold Souk, one of the oldest and most fascinating traditional markets in the emirate. Whether you’re just browsing or genuinely on the hunt for even the slightest amount of precious gold, walk through the glittering Gold Souk and you’ll find the biggest selection of gold jewellery and gemstones crafted in a variety of carats. Long lines of market stalls showcase a gleaming myriad of authentic and eye-catching products – you never know when you’ll spot something just for you or a loved one. All merchandise is carefully regulated by the Dubai government to ensure the authenticity its quality. You can be sure your purchases will be genuine. In addition to gold, careful inspection of the wares on offer may see you uncover diamond-encrusted ornaments, strings of pearls, platinum and silver. Retailers are more than up to the match with haggling. But be fair with your price – there are lots of bargains to find.

If you follow your nose, the spicy-sweet scent of cloves, the earthy fragrance of cinnamon and the fiery, smoky aromas of chilli, paprika and pepper will lead you to the olfactory oasis that is the Dubai Spice Souk. In this small covered market home to more than 150 small retailers, spices are shipped in daily from India, Pakistan and Iran, and neatly displayed in burlap sacks in front of each teeny shopfront, alongside dried fruit, nuts, basmati rice, incense burners, henna kits and tea.