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29 March 2024

Ebb and flow of life on Dubai Creek: World of heritage

Published
By Majorie van Leijen & Photos by Marijke Kloek

Today Unesco is visiting Dubai Creek in evaluation of the eligibility of the locality as a world heritage site.

A heritage site, according to Unesco, must be representative of historical events, traditions, cultures and activity as well as showcase a unique authentic scene.

Since the early 20th century, Dubai Creek or Khor as it will be called locally, has formed a port for dhow boats coming and going to Africa and the Far East.

At that time, it was the only port of Dubai, and it thus played a vital role in the economic development of the city, which was formed by the two sides of the Creek Bur Dubai and Deira.

Pearl diving and fishing were the drivers of the economy at that time, and economy that took place in and around the Creek.

Due to its importance, significant improvements were made to the port in the 1960s and 1970s. The creek was dredged several times, allowing for a more continues traffic of merchandise. Now bigger vessels could enter and dock at the Creek.

The continuous flow of dhows and vessels coming and going to countries such as India, Pakistan, Iran and East African states is still a distinctive feature of the Creek side today.

Colourful dhows catch the curious eye of many tourist, and the loading and reloading of ware varying from rice, ghee, and tea to fridgerators, microwaves and washing machines forms an inspiring scene.

Still thriving the economy today, Dubai Creek trade forms an essential part of Dubai and an indicator of local heritage successfully maintained over the years.