Page 377 - ENGLISH PR REPORT FEBRUARY 2024

Under the project, the municipality carried out a comprehensive overhaul, including developing street
paving, installation of a new gate, lighting enhancements, and the integration of heritage elements
such as the iconic Al Mandus. To ensure comfort and authenticity, the street is now adorned with
traditional seating areas and heritage-inspired umbrellas, offering tourists a glimpse into the
historical essence of one of Dubai’s oldest places.

H.E. Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality, emphasized the strategic importance
of the Old Municipal Street project as part of a broader initiative to rejuvenate Deira and Bur Dubai’s
historic areas, as well as various heritage sites and markets across the emirate. Al Hajri said: “We
are working towards making Dubai more attractive and aesthetic by providing attractive and
integrated facilities while preserving the Emirate’s historical architectural identity. This is to cement
the status of Dubai as a premier global tourist destination that seamlessly merges contemporary
allure with ancient cultural landmarks.”

Revival of heritage markets
He added: “Our main objective to revitalize the historic municipal street is to breathe new life into the
traditional markets and landmarks of Dubai, while also enhancing the tourist experience through
innovative approaches. This involves enriching the area’s visual appeal with heritage-inspired
elements that capture its unique identity, integrating recreational amenities, and creating pedestrian-
friendly spaces. Additionally, we aim to activate and stimulate the adjacent markets to boost tourism
attraction to the region.

The municipality carried out complete paving of the street, which was completely closed to vehicular
traffic for smooth operations. This initiative was aimed at enriching the experience of tourists and
visitors by making the area more identifiable, while also fostering commercial activity to encourage
investors to expand their businesses in line with the street’s new identity.

Located in the Al Ras area of Deira, the Old Municipal Street links to various heritage markets that
overlook the banks of the Dubai Creek. These markets – including the Gold, Dates, Fragrances, Al
Ras, and Spices markets – are distinctive tourist destinations that reflect Dubai’s history and the
authentic identity of the UAE.

https://propertytime.ae/dubai-municipality-transforms-old-municipal-street-into-vibrant-pedestrian-
tourist-corridor/