A fusion of old and new in Dubai

 

For cities growing at a breakneck speed, creating a balance between the old and the new is quite a challenge. Special care (and strong government policies) needed to be taken so as not to callously bulldoze the deeply rooted culture and traditions of a place while introducing breakthrough developments left and right. After all, what good is growth when you have lost your soul?

So far, Dubai is succeeding in this regard. While the soaring skyscrapers and massive malls are endlessly expanding in the New Dubai area along Sheikh Zayed Road, the old souks, the historical forts, and the dhows along the creek in Deira and Bur Dubai are just as bustling with activity that kept the traditional Emirati soul undeniably alive.

The new
However, an even more impressive feat in this ambitious balancing act is the presence of the “old” thriving quite comfortably right smack in the middle of the “new” -- Arabian dhow cruises along Dubai Marina.

Established in 2003, Dubai Marina is one of the largest man-made canal cities in the world. It is home to numerous high-rise residential and office buildings; the latest dining, entertainment, and leisure amenities in the region; and a scenic quay for hundreds of sleek and sophisticated yachts. It is a modern seaside haven exuding an invigorating multicultural vibe that bespeaks a city of the future.

The old
Amidst all these glitter and glamour, the traditional dhow, in its rustic yet enchanting wooden glory, gracefully sails along the waterway like it belongs. Bedecked in bright flashy lights, the dhow boldly takes passengers on a short cruise along the marina to marvel at the glittering towers and to feel the infectious cosmopolitan energy all around.

Glowing testaments of the Bedouin roots of Dubai, the dhow is an ancient Arabic boat mainly utilized for fishing and trading centuries ago. Its exact origins are unknown, but they are believed to have originated in either in China or India. To this day, a good number of dhows still make commercial journeys carrying cargoes of dates and fishes to countries in the Persian Gulf and East Africa. They are now mainly used for recreational purposes taking tourists to trips along the equally historic Dubai Creek and the progressive Dubai Marina.

Nice blend
On a breathtaking dhow cruise marina, guests are treated to welcome refreshments; a sumptuous dinner buffet of Continental and Arabian cuisine; and fun entertainment options like magic shows, Tanoura dancing, and live music all within a two-hour ride through the marvels of the Dubai Marina. Climbing aboard the double-decker dhows, guests can opt to dine in the air-conditioned lower deck or to party with loved ones in the open-air upper deck where the cool night time sea breeze blows abundantly all around.

The dazzling lights from the establishments along the promenade, the sumptuous feast of gourmet delights, and the authentic Bedouin feel of the traditional dhow all make for a dinner cruise that is unlike any other. Only in Dubai can you experience an eclectic union of the past and the future on a fascinating dhow cruise marina. It truly is an impressive balancing act that works perfectly well for everyone.

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Milan Tomic

Hi. I’m Designer of Blog Magic. I’m CEO/Founder of ThemeXpose. I’m Creative Art Director, Web Designer, UI/UX Designer, Interaction Designer, Industrial Designer, Web Developer, Business Enthusiast, StartUp Enthusiast, Speaker, Writer and Photographer. Inspired to make things looks better.

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