A project to revitalise and preserve the architecture of the traditional markets of Deira has been completed by Dubai Municipality (DM).
The project was driven by a need to preserve the UAE’s heritage and cultural identity and aimed to enhance the area’s traditional markets and reinforce its role as a major cultural and tourism attraction in the city, the statement from DM said.
According to DM, the project also saw the addition of new creative touches to the surrounding modern buildings. The municipal authority says this was done to enhance the area’s historical ambiance and ensure overall design integration with the traditional architecture of the markets.
“Dubai has witnessed significant leaps in its development over the past few decades and has become a global trading and business hub in a short period of time. The retail sector in the region is supported by a range of modern markets that are among the most prominent in the world and attract some of the world’s prestigious international brands. However, this drive for modernity has not diminished the importance of traditional markets, which have been at the heart of the city’s commercial and economic life,” said Dawoud Al Hajri, director general of Dubai Municipality.
The project was carried out in two phases, the first of which included the completion of the main information centre at the entrance of the Grand Souq in Deira. DM notes that the information centre welcomes visitors, receives proposals from traders and provides assistance and information for tourists. A second centre near Al Ras Metro station is said to offer tourist maps and information brochures on the traditional markets and historical landmarks.
“We received clear directives from HH Sheikh Mohammed to give special attention to these traditional markets and restore the prestige they enjoyed over the decades, which gave them an important place in the emirate’s history,” Al Hajri added.
The second phase of the project included the addition of an Abra station opposite the Shindagha district, in addition to a bus stop for tourists. The sites were implemented in conjunction with the Deira Waterfront Development.
Dubai Municipality says it is currently reviewing a ‘comprehensive plan’ for the development of the historical areas in Deira and Bur Dubai, which will include modifying its urban features to highlight its historical character.
The plan aims to enhance the floor of the markets and install new light fixtures. It also includes the launch of an app that offers a tour of the market and information on its most important features.