Bur Dubai

Not to be confused with Burj Dubai.

File:Deira Skyline on 8 May 2007.jpg

The Bur Dubai creek area, facing Deira.

Bur Dubai (in Arabic: بر دبي ) is a historic district in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, located on the western side of the Dubai Creek. The name literally translates to Mainland Dubai, a reference to the traditional separation of the Bur Dubai area from Deira by the Dubai Creek. This is because Bur Dubai historically consisted of all districts between the western bank of the Creek and Jumeirah. The Ruler's Court is located in the district adjacent to the Grand Mosque.

The district is home to several mosques including the Grand Mosque with the city's tallest minaret, and the blue tiled Iranian Mosque. The country's only Hindu temple is situated between the Grand Mosque and the Creek.

It is home to several popular places for tourists including renovated historic buildings and museums. The district has many shopping streets and souqs (or souk), including the textile souq near the abra boat station, though most of the well known souqs are located in Deira.

Historic area

Main article: Al Bastakiya

The Al Bastakiya historic area is located to the east of Al Fahidi Fort (now home to Dubai Museum) and features old courtyard housing which are identifiable with their wind towers. Shindagha to the north west, located between Bur Dubai, the creek and the sea is the historic location of the ruler's house on the peninsula facing the sea and the creek.

Modern developments

As of 2008, work was being undertaken to extend Dubai Creek back to the sea, turning Bur Dubai into an island. Bur Dubai is a popular living area consisting of several apartment buildings.

The Dubai Metro Red Line goes through Bur Dubai connecting with the airport.