Time for a glow-up? Old Dubai Creek is getting a makeover!

Old Dubai Creek (the home of the iconic Abra) is getting a makeover - and this is not just any little jazz up!

New plans have been revealed for a total rebuild and revamp of the creek pier, to avoid any future flood risks and ensure an all-around safer experience for Souq users.

Let us give you all the details...

The Dubai Municipality has announced that the renovation and rebuilding project will begin on 26th of February 2024, with a first focus on the old walls alongside Deira and Bur Dubai.

To the rescue!

The works will also restore the old, and weakening walls that are eroding along the pier - which can no longer safeguard the Creek during floods or heavy rainfall. The restoration will begin in sections, with the 2.1km stretch of Deira being rebuilt first, and then the 2.3km section of Bur Dubai being built next.

These renovations will also ensure a safer place for ships and yachts to dock, with an increased depth and height of eight by three meters.

What’s more - the municipality will be offering an enhanced set of services and facilities for safe docking and navigation with the provision of 200 anchors across the dock, and staff.

This project is set to be completed in the next 14 months!

Now, time for a little history lesson - Dubai Creek

If you’re new here, you might have not had the chance to explore the sights of Old Dubai, or the Creek. But one thing we do recommend - a trip through the Abra (an old-wooden boat) through the pier of Bur Dubai and Deira is a MUST!

The Dubai Creek holds a rich history that stretches back centuries, serving as the lifeblood of the city, and according to UNESCO, holding one of the oldest heritage sites in the UAE - dating back to when the UAE was known as The Trucial States, in 1822.

Here is a little history lesson on how Dubai Creek became the city’s biggest heritage site:

1. The first home to early settlers

The story of Dubai Creek began with the earliest human settlements coming to the area, around 4,000 years ago. Commonly known as Bedouins, these settlements relied heavily on fishing, pearl diving, and trade along the coast, hence they lived along the creek.

2. The first trade hub in the region

By the 18th century, Dubai Creek had emerged as a bustling trading hub, with merchants from across the region and beyond coming to import and export their goods on the trade routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa. This made it a vital center for commerce and trade and to date stands as one of the biggest trading hubs in the country.

3. A pearl haven!

During the early 19th century, when the early settlements came into the UAE, the Dubai Creek became popular for its boom in pearl diving, with the creek becoming one of the leading centres for pearl trading in the Gulf region. Pearling played a significant role in the economy and culture of Dubai during this time, much before oil and gold trading.

4. Development of port facilities and maritime trade

Before becoming a port and hub for maritime trade, Dubai Creek underwent significant development with the construction of port facilities to accommodate the growing demand for maritime trade and ship routes. Docks, warehouses, and customs houses were built along the creek's banks, and are still standing as modern offices, warehouses and more to this very day!

5. Then came modernisation…

Now in case you didn’t know, the discovery of oil in the region, back in the 1960s brought about rapid modernisation and transformation for the city. Dubai Creek at the time continued to play a crucial role in the city's economy, serving as a hub for both traditional trading activities and the upcoming oil industry.

Although, in recent times, Dubai Creek has further expanded and diversified, with the development of ports, terminals, and waterfront developments, being a vital artery for trade, tourism, and recreation in the city.

Fun fact: The creek’s economic growth can be traced all the way back to 1902, when HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher had abolished all custom duties on imports, essentially creating a free trade zone for traders and merchants! This attracted many and since, Dubai has became a major trading hub!

We can’t wait to see what’s in store for the Creek!

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