Dubai is known for its stunning architecture, luxury shopping, and desert adventures. In fact, it never stops to create new experiences so tourists can engage in new adventures each time they visit the emirate.
A new addition to Dubai’s must-visit place, where the new meets the old, is Marsa Al Seef.
Located along the Dubai Creek, Marsa Al Seef blends the modern, cultural, and vibrant retail, hospitality and entertainment experiences for all tourists. Whether you love shopping, want to try Emirati cuisine, or attend exciting events, Marsa Al Seef has lots to offer.
Marsa Al Seef was created to make sure that the Emirati culture won’t ever be forgotten. A visit to this new destination is an opportunity for you to know what Dubai was before and is today.
The waterways that surround the area are also a unique aspect of this cosmopolitan hub. Visitors can avoid road traffic by choosing to ride a water taxi to head to any of the area’s highly recommended shops and restaurants.
Here is a list of the different things that you can experience at Marsa Al Seef.
1. Expand your knowledge of Emirati culture
Marsa Al Seef was built primarily to raise awareness about Emirati culture. From its design to the activities you can enjoy, this new Dubai destination will give you a more insightful tour of the city.
For instance, you can learn about the city’s traditions of fishing, pearl diving, and boat building right. That’s because merchants, weavers, pearl divers, and fishers once came to this place together to make a trade.
Enhance your discovery of their culture further by staying in an Arabian-themed hotel. Such an establishment would offer the best combination of business and wellness services to satisfy your relaxation needs. Moreover, have a taste of their mouth-watering recipes and international cuisines. It is recommended, though, that you make a room reservation early to get the best hotel rates in Dubai.
2. Embark on a show cruise
The surrounding area of Marsa Al Seef has an interconnected waterway system, allowing dhows (wooden Arab sailing vessels) to glide across. Riding in one of these vessels feels like the going on the gondola rides in Venice.
A dinner dhow cruise along the Dubai Creek is an experience you must not miss. Watch the stunning sceneries of Dubai with all the bright lights in awe. Feel the gentle breeze on your face. Enjoy a delectable buffet of Arabic, Indian, and Continental dishes. And witness where the Emirati’s rich culture was born.
Don’t be afraid to ride the dhow because this sailing vessel is fitted with safety measures, including compass, radio license, first aid kits, life jackets, fire extinguishers, and navigation equipment. Also, it is fully insured and has been approved by respective government bodies in Dubai.
One reminder: Remember not to take photos of Arab women without their permission. It is also prohibited for visitors to capture images of any military and government installations.
3. Be a part of different festivities and events
Marsa Al Seef hosts different events and festivities. And if you visit the city at the right time, you can be a part of these events.
Every December, for example, the area hosts the annual Shopping Festival. During this time, you can enjoy plenty of perks, freebies, and discounts in different retail stores in Marsa Al Seef. It also hosts the UAE National Day during this month, where it showcases various cultural activities, kids’ shows, musical performances and workshops.
Other events that Marsa Al Seef hosts include live cooking stations, dhow building exhibitions, art exhibitions, and local craft. It would be a good idea to do research on these activities before booking your flight to Dubai so you will get the most out of your Marsa Al Seef visit.
4. Shop at the unique floating boutiques
If you are tired of shopping at the world’s biggest malls in Dubai, why not try shopping on water? The first floating market is set to open this year!
Expect to see 17 abra-inspired boats anchored at Marsa Al Seef. These floating boutiques will sell everything – from art and fashion to souvenirs and food. The abras were built using traditional methods and are equipped with air conditioning and electricity so you can visit and shop in comfort.
Without a doubt, Marsa Al Seef is a must-visit destination in Dubai. So make sure to include this in your travel bucket list now! And don’t forget to bring your camera, comfy clothes and sneakers, and sunscreen to get the most out of your trip.
AUTHOR BIO
Habib Khan is a seasoned Hotelier, currently the CEO of Planet Hospitality and General Manager of Arabian Courtyard Hotel and Spa. Khan has more than 30 years of diversified international experience in the hospitality industry. He is an expert in developing, transforming, and managing hotels, with an ability to analyze and solve problems in a challenging work environment.