Dubai is often remembered as this massive touristy place. But there’s also a traditional side to this amazing city. And this is best captured at the Dubai Creek. And today this photo was taken from a tour bus. This boat might as well sail to India with its cargo.

And for you history buffins, here’s some brief history about the Creek.

Dubai Creek, known locally as "Khor Dubai," is a natural saltwater inlet that runs through the heart of Dubai. It has played a crucial role in the history and development of Dubai and the wider UAE, especially in terms of trade and commerce.

Early History of Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek's history dates back thousands of years, and it has always been central to the lives of the people in the region. The Creek served as a natural harbour, attracting settlers and traders due to its strategic location along the Arabian Gulf. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area around the Creek was inhabited as early as 3000 BCE, with early communities engaging in fishing, pearling, and trading.

The Role of the Creek in Trade

By the early 19th century, Dubai Creek had become a bustling hub for trade, especially under the rule of the Al Maktoum family, who took control of Dubai in 1833. The Creek's strategic location made it an ideal stop for trading ships from India, Persia, and Africa, allowing Dubai to establish itself as a regional trading centre.

• Pearling Industry: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the pearling industry flourished in the UAE, with Dubai Creek as one of the central hubs. Pearl divers would embark from the Creek, and the pearls they collected were traded with merchants from around the world. This industry brought considerable wealth to Dubai and its ruling family.

• Re-export Trade: Dubai Creek became a key point for the re-export trade, where goods from other parts of the world were brought into Dubai, processed or repackaged, and then exported to other regions. This trade played a vital role in establishing Dubai as a commercial hub.

Developments in the 20th Century

The early 20th century brought significant changes to Dubai Creek and the city's economy:

• Dredging of the Creek: In the 1950s and 1960s, under the leadership of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Dubai Creek was dredged to allow larger ships to navigate its waters. This development was crucial for expanding trade and attracting more international businesses to Dubai.

• Establishment of Ports: The expansion of Dubai's port facilities began around this time, with the opening of Port Rashid in 1972 and later Jebel Ali Port, further solidifying Dubai’s status as a major trading hub in the region.

Modern Dubai Creek

Today, Dubai Creek remains a symbol of the city’s heritage. The area around the Creek has been developed into a major cultural and commercial district, with attractions like the Dubai Creek Harbour and the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, which preserve the history and traditions of the city.

Despite the rapid modernization of Dubai, the Creek continues to be an essential part of the city’s identity. Traditional abras (wooden boats) still ferry passengers across its waters, and the area retains a vibrant atmosphere, with souks (markets) that echo the Creek's historical significance in trade and commerce.

Trading in the UAE

The UAE, particularly Dubai, has a long-standing tradition of trade, which has been a cornerstone of its economy:

• Before Oil: Before the discovery of oil in the 1960s, trade was the lifeblood of the UAE’s economy. The UAE's strategic location between Europe and Asia made it an ideal trading post. The country's merchants traded in a variety of goods, including textiles, spices, and pearls.

• Post-Oil Economy: The discovery of oil brought immense wealth to the UAE, but the country’s leadership wisely invested in diversifying the economy. Dubai, in particular, focused on building its reputation as a global trading hub. The development of free zones, such as Jebel Ali Free Zone, attracted multinational companies, boosting trade and investment.

• Current Status: Today, the UAE is one of the world’s leading trading nations. Dubai is known for its state-of-the-art ports and logistics infrastructure, which supports a vast re-export market. The UAE’s trade is highly diversified, encompassing sectors like electronics, machinery, gold, and diamonds.

In summary, Dubai Creek has been at the heart of Dubai's rise as a global trading hub, with its history reflecting the broader evolution of trade in the UAE. From a small fishing and pearling settlement to a modern metropolis, Dubai's growth has been closely tied to its strategic position along vital trade routes.