Al Shindagha - Dubai
HIGHLIGHTS
ABOUT AL SHINDAGHA
Located in Bur Dubai, Al Shindagha is a historic area that shares borders with Port Rashid and Al Fahidi. Its proximity to Al Khaleej Road (D92) means it is conveniently close to the Shindagha Tunnel which links Deira and Bur Dubai neighborhoods.
The Shindagha Museum, formerly the residence of the ruling family, is a prominent feature of the historical district which also boasts numerous other museums and heritage sites, as well as City Centre Shindagha.
IN A NUTSHELL
NEIGHBOURHOOD
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
Al Shindagha Bur Dubai has a significant historical importance to Dubai as it was the location where Maktoum bin Butti and his tribe, Bani Yas, settled in 1883. He declared independence from Abu Dhabi's emirate and since then, the ruling dynasty of Maktoum has governed Dubai until today.
The former dwelling of the royal family has now become the Shindagha Museum, along with other historical sites and museums within the community. There are no living or business spaces present in this area. In 2016, when City Centre Shindagha was established, it gained popularity as a retail destination.
PROPERTIES IN AL SHINDAGHA
Al Shindagah is mainly focused on catering to tourists and therefore, does not provide any residential properties for rent or sale. However, it is possible to find apartment listings available for rent in nearby buildings that are located near the community's boundaries. For example, a studio unit in close proximity measuring 204 sq. ft can be rented at an annual rate of AED 16K.
HOTELS NEAR AL SHINDAGHA
Regarding lodgings in Al Shindagha, there is the Barjeel Heritage guesthouse, which features a traditional Arabian design. The establishment boasts 11 air-conditioned rooms that offer high-end bedding, minibars, safes and various other amenities.
In the vicinity of Bur Dubai, guests have a variety of hotels to choose from within a 10-minute drive. These include high-end luxury hotels as well as budget-friendly and unique boutique options. Additionally, visitors can organize their accommodations at:
Situated on the outskirts of Al Shindaga lies the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, a 4-star establishment in Port Rashid. This refurbished 13-dock ship boasts an impressive array of amenities including over 200 suites and hotel rooms, venues for nightlife and fitness enthusiasts, as well as conferencing facilities.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING IN AL SHINDAGHA
Regarding parking in Al Shindagha, City Centre Shindagha provides both free and paid options while the rest of the district exclusively offers paid parking lots. Securing street parking without a fee can be quite difficult, which means that individuals will need to opt for at least a paid spot.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN & NEAR AL SHINDAGHA
Al Shindagha's proximity to various transportation options, including the Dubai Metro and bus stations, provides individuals with easy access to travel throughout Dubai. Additionally, taxi ranks are conveniently available at these locations for those looking to book taxis in the area.
Located in Al Shindagha, the green line underground metro station of Al Ghubaiba also caters to several Dubai RTA bus routes, including 8, C5, C7, and C9. Additionally, the X13 route is available for commuters with over 20 city stops covered by this bus service.
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station is situated in the district of Ghubaiba, Bur Dubai, just beyond the Al Shindagha boundary. This station is a significant transportation hub with ample amenities such as a taxi stand, parking facilities, information center, and restroom facilities.
This station offers a variety of intercity bus services such as the E100, E201 and E306 that go to Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Sharjah respectively. Additionally, local routes like 9, 29, 83, 93, 66 and 67 are also available. For those interested in using the Dubai Ferry for travel purposes, they can head to Al Ghubaiba Marine Station which is located nearby.
AMENITIES, SCHOOLS AND HEALTHCARE
SUPERMARKETS IN & NEAR AL SHINDAGHA
The City Centre Shindagha in Dubai houses a sizable branch of Carrefour Hypermarket, which is one of the largest outlets in the city. Known as one of the top supermarkets in both Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, Carrefour enjoys a reputation for excellence.
There are additional grocery stores in the vicinity of Al Shindagha, including:
The grocery retail outlets in Dubai are known for providing budget-friendly and reasonably-priced groceries, which have gained popularity among consumers.
MOSQUES IN AL SHINDAGHA
For daily prayers, Muslims can visit the mosques located in Al Shindagha. These prayers are held on a regular basis and consist of:
The Bur Dubai Masjid, also known as the Grand Dubai Mosque, is just a 10-minute distance away. It's not only recognized as a popular mosque but also appreciated for its impressive architecture.
OTHER PLACES OF WORSHIP NEAR AL SHINDAGHA
In Bur Dubai, there are three temples that serve various segments of the Hindu community. These temples can be easily reached from Al Shindagha within a 10-minute drive.
Numerous churches are situated in the Bur Dubai area, where Christians can easily locate them. Within an 18-minute drive from Al Shindagha, there are several options for churches to attend.
A 35-minute drive can take Sikhs to Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara, the biggest Gurudwara in the Gulf Region. It is situated in Jebel Ali and holds various annual and monthly festivals that are open for people belonging to every religion.
SCHOOLS NEAR AL SHINDAGHA
In the vicinity of Al Shindagha, there are several distinguished educational institutions, including:
Atticus Education LLC manages New Academy School (NAS), which provides US-based educational programmes infused with Islamic and Arabic values. The classes available at NAS cater to students from KG-1 to Grade 12.
The Lycée Francais International (LFI) is affiliated with the ‘L’Association Franco-Libanaise pour l’Éducation et la Culture (AFLEC)’ and adheres to the French National Curriculum. The school offers classes for kindergarten through grade 12, and upon graduation, students receive the National Diploma of French Brevet. LFI is a renowned French educational institution in Dubai.
Established in 2013, The Ambassador School provides education from Grade 1 to Grade 12 with a focus on the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE). Specifically, it offers ICSE examination for Secondary school and ISC examination for Higher Secondary School.
In the vicinity of Al Shindaga, numerous nursery schools can be found in Bur Dubai. Some examples include:
Within a 10 to 13 minute drive, you can reach multiple nurseries. Al Mankhool is the location of one British Orchard Nursery, which happens to be part of one of the largest preschool chains in the Middle East.
CLINICS AND HOSPITALS NEAR AL SHINDAGHA
Medical facilities located in the vicinity of Al Shindagha comprise:
Medical facilities in close proximity to Al Shindagha comprise:
Aster Hospital and Medeor Hospital are among the leading medical facilities in Dubai, conveniently located within a 10 to 15-minute reach.
NEARBY AREAS
The district of Port Rashid, situated to the west of Al Shindagha, is a prominent location for off-plan properties developed by Emaar in Dubai. Furthermore, it serves as a major commercial hub in the Middle East. Mina Rashid Port is not only acclaimed for its importance but also regarded as one of UAE's top cruise destinations. It has been honored with the Security Certificate of Excellence by International Maritime Security (IMS).
Across Dubai Creek, lies Deira which holds a significant place in the history of Dubai as its oldest commercial district and thriving trading center.
Numerous neighborhoods in Bur Dubai are located near Al Shindagha, for instance:
Al Fahidi, also known as Al Bastakiya, is situated next to Dubai Creek and shares its border with Al Shindagha towards the east. It is among the most ancient neighborhoods in Bur Dubai and throughout the emirate. Visitors often head to Al Fahidi Historical District when exploring this locality.
Al Mina, situated in Bur Dubai near the coast, is a compact residential area sharing its border to the west with Jumeirah 1. The locality comprises of apartment buildings. Al Mankhool, on the other hand, is predominantly a residential sub-community that offers an array of amenities such as retail outlets, schools, restaurants and even a public library. Similarly, Al Hudaiba is another small community that has numerous government offices along with several apartment buildings.
LIFESTYLE
SHOPPING, DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
MALLS NEAR AL SHINDAGHA
The area that stands out the most is where City Centre Shindagha can be found, a famous destination in town. This shopping complex was established four years ago and offers over 75 shops as well as ample parking space for up to 850 vehicles across its expansive 24.5 sq. km premises. Some top-notch stores inside include Splash, Giordano and Smart Baby, which has earned quite a reputation as one of Dubai's finest baby stores.
The City Centre Shindagha features a range of dining options, pharmacies, and entertainment venues. Among the entertainment choices available are VOX Cinemas with seven screens and a Magic Planet location in Dubai.
Al Shindagha is conveniently located near two popular destinations in Dubai: the Textile Souk and Burjuman Mall. The Textile Souk is one of the best souks in Dubai and can be reached on foot. Meanwhile, Burjuman Mall, which is just a 10-minute drive away, boasts a wide range of high-street brands, restaurants, and entertainment options such as Magic Planet and VOX cinemas - ensuring that you will always have something to do while there.
RESTAURANTS IN & NEAR AL SHINDAGHA
En: The dining area at City Centre Shindagha hosts a variety of eateries, such as cafés and restaurants.
Both Tapa King and Chic Boy Inasal Restaurant are restaurants that offer Filipino cuisine. Tapa King is known for its affordability, making it one of Dubai's most budget-friendly dining options. Bombay Chowpatty serves popular Indian street food dishes and has a solid reputation in the area. Meanwhile, Pizza Hut, Subway, KFC, McDonald’s, and ChicKing all fall under the fast-food category. For sweet treats or a refreshing beverage, Baskin Robbins offers ice cream while Tea To Go is more of a café setting.
Bur Dubai also boasts several high-end dining establishments that are located in close proximity. These options consist of:
Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor, an Indian eatery, is just a 10-minute ride away. Within a 15-minute drive, you can also reach Kris With A View and TOMO. At Kris With A View, you'll find an extensive selection of dishes spanning Thai, Chinese, Indian, Malaysian and Continental cuisines. Meanwhile, TOMO specializes in Japanese fare like sushi and is renowned as one of the top restaurants in Bur Dubai.
In addition, the vicinity also has numerous drinking establishments, for instance:
Each of these bars and lounges can be accessed by car within a 10 to 12 minute drive.
BEACHES NEAR AL SHINDAGHA
Although Al Shindagah is located along the waterfront, there are no beaches within the district itself. One would need to travel for about 15 minutes from the area to reach any of Dubai's public beaches. The nearest available option would be Jumeirah Public Beach, which also features a running track spanning approximately 1.8 kilometers.
Located nearby is Pearl Jumeirah's popular public beach called North Beach, which borders Nikki Beach. Referred to as the Nikki Beach Resort and Spa, it ranks among Dubai's top-rated beach clubs.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES AND NOTABLE LANDMARKS
In the area of Al Shindagha, there are notable landmarks that can be found.
The Shindagha Museum, located in the district, is likely its most prominent attraction. This museum, also known as Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House Dubai, is an ancient structure and one of the most significant historical landmarks in Dubai. It has a collection of various artefacts including photographs, coins, paintings, jewellery and stamps that date back to the 19th century.
Dubai's Shindagha Museum offers a family-friendly experience and features the 'museum of scents', also known as the Perfume House. This unique attraction is situated within the residence of late Sheikha Sheikha bint Saeed Al-Maktoum.
The Heritage and Diving Villages consist of replicated communities containing traditional dwellings such as Barasti huts and palm-and-mud houses. The former provides a marketplace where potters and jewellers exhibit their wares, in addition to a bazaar evocative of the past. The latter focuses on Dubai's pearling enterprise. These villages offer Bedouin crafts for purchase, as well as an authentic coffeehouse experience.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Knowledge Foundation and Dubai Culture collaborate to operate the House of Poetry, also known as Bait El Shaier. This cultural monument in Dubai hosts a variety of events such as meetings, workshops, and activities aimed at promoting poetry and other literary arts in the city.
The Saruq Al Hadid Archaeology Museum was once a factory for metallurgy, but it has now been transformed into galleries showcasing various items such as weapons, utensils and work tools. During a flight over the Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter Desert) in 2002, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum spotted some slag from the Iron Age which led to the discovery of several artifacts that are now featured in the museum.
For those seeking complimentary entertainment in Dubai, visiting the Camel Museum is a viable option. The museum acts as a repository of knowledge regarding camels and their significance in the Arabian Peninsula. Formerly referred to as Rekab Hous (House of the Camels), it is also utilized for the training of horses and camels even today.
The Crossroad of Civilizations Museum is a privately owned establishment exhibiting antiquities from numerous civilizations that have passed through the area, such as the Babylonians, Romans, Ubaids, and Greeks. Several remarkable items are on display at this museum including a bull-shaped vase dating back to around 7500 BCE and a Kaaba curtain originating from the 16th century. Despite its size being one of Dubai's smaller museums.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, FITNESS AND BEAUTY
The area has pedestrian paths and natural areas suitable for leisurely walks, with additional larger parks in close proximity such as Al Mankhool Park and Hudaiba Park which are both a 10-minute walk away.
Zabeel Park, located just 15 minutes away, is among the top parks in Dubai. It boasts an array of activities to relish such as verdant gardens and the famed Dubai Frame.
Bur Dubai offers a plethora of spas and salons, making it effortless to indulge in personal grooming and beauty treatments. Some notable establishments include:
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Bur Dubai offers a compelling lifestyle due to its frequent recreational events. Both Shindagha Museum and City Centre Shindagha hold numerous public holiday events, while the museum and House of Poetry also present exhibitions periodically.
UPCOMING ATTRACTIONS
The ongoing development of the Shindagha Corridor Project, which amounts to AED 5 billion, involves the construction of a bridge that spans 295 metres. The height of this bridge will be 15.5 metres above Dubai Creek and it will stretch across Cairo Streets, Al Khaleej, Al Amina and Sheikh Rashid Street. To add aesthetic appeal to the design, an arch in the shape of the infinity symbol with a height of 42 metres is included.
Scheduled for finalization in 2022, the bridge measures 8.5 kilometers in total length, and the tunnels cover a distance of 535 meters. Additionally, there are plans to construct ten surface junctions throughout the project. Six Construct has undertaken the responsibility of being the infrastructure contractor for this project.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Al Shindagha serves as both a cultural and leisurely attraction, providing an opportunity for residents and foreigners to gain knowledge about the emirate's and country's past. Furthermore, its appeal also lies in City Centre Shindagha, which draws in many shoppers.
Nevertheless, Bur Dubai encompasses more than just housing options. Aspiring residents can explore alternative real estate opportunities within the vicinity.
FAQS ABOUT AL SHINDAGHA
Was the opening of Al Shindagha Tunnel in 2005?
The Al Shindagha Tunnel, which accommodates a daily traffic volume of up to 55,000 vehicles, was inaugurated back in 1975. With its closed tunnel extending over 550 meters and open ramp approach sections that cover around 200 meters on either side, this four-lane infrastructure constitutes a pedestrian-friendly third bore as well. Following the significant deterioration of concrete observed during the eighties, the tunnel underwent thorough renovation at that time.