Dubai as a metropolitan city that it is, is famous for skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, lavish resorts, massive malls and other ‘superb’ attractions. But what lies in the city’s heart is its true charm – the Old Dubai.

We started off at Al Shindagha area as it was the nearest from where we live. We got off at Al Ghubaiba bus station and walked several meters to reach the Bur Dubai Abra Station. Our sole plan on that day was just to experience riding the abra but since there were cultural spots in proximity, we decided to explore some.

House of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Saeed Al Maktoum

On our way to the abra station, we passed by Sheikh Khalifa Bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s house turned museum also known as Juthoor Art Center. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum is the grandfather of Dubai’s current ruler and this was his official residence during his reign as monarch until 1958. It houses artworks and several vintage items depicting Emirati lifestyle.