25 May 2008

Dubai: The popular and historic Dubai Creekside area of Al Bastakiya is getting a facelift.

While its wind towers and shaded courtyards are a favourite amongst residents and visitors, additions to the already bustling area will include a specialised arts and cultural centre to host events, festivals and activities.

The new look of Al Bastakiya will encourage artists from all fields to visit and work - thanks to a performance art theatre, studios and workshops with a mix of concept and designer outlets, boutique hotels, galleries, cafes and restaurants.

Plans to increase activities around Al Bastakiya have been set in motion by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and Shaikh Ahmad Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Event Management Corporation.

The event management corporation was recently launched under the directive of Shaikh Mohammad to place Dubai as a unique sports and cultural hub on both the regional and international levels.

"The project is in line with the vision of the Khor Dubai cultural project, recently launched by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority which is set to revive the national cultural heritage of Dubai, as well as establish the UAE as a centre for global dialogue and cultural platforms.

Previous visitors to the heritage areas include Prince Charles and Lady Camilla.

Heritage area: What you will find here

The Bastakiya Heritage Area was built in the late 19th century by Iranian merchants attracted to the city by its relaxed trade tariffs and takes it name from the town of Bastak in southern Iran. Most of the buildings are open to the public and the following can be found there:

Shaikh Mohammad Centre for Cultural Understanding
Basta Art Cafe - Popular courtyard cafe.
Majlis Gallery - Features the work of local and international artists.
Ostra - Gallery specialising in contemporary art and sculpture.
XVA - Small guesthouse and art gallery.
Bastakiya Art School
Journalists Association
Emirates Philatelic Association
WWF
The Association of Architectural Heritage Preservation

By Emmanuelle Landais

Gulf News 2008. All rights reserved.