Dubai is a vast and dynamic city renowned for its towering skyscrapers, exquisite dining options, and a diverse influx of tourists from all corners of the globe. However, this vibrant metropolis was not always the bustling hub we see today. History enthusiasts will recall that the largest city in the UAE began as a modest fishing village nestled in the desert sands. It’s truly captivating to explore images of Old Dubai and witness the remarkable transformation that has occurred over the years. It seems like just yesterday that camels roamed the paths of what is now the busy Sheikh Zayed Road. Looking back at archive photos of Dubai International Airport (DXB), it’s hard to fathom that it would eventually become the busiest airport in the world. Join us as we embark on a visual journey through Dubai’s history, tracing its evolution into the global city we recognize today.

Burj Khalifa

Old Dubai: The early stages of construction of the Burj Khalifa. Credit: burjdubaiskyscraper.com

As Dubai continued to flourish, its leaders sought to diversify the economy beyond oil dependency. A key component of this vision was to establish the city as an international tourist haven, and the results have been astonishing. The Burj Khalifa, standing as the tallest building in the world, has become a focal point of this initiative, propelling Dubai into the global spotlight.

Officially opened in 2010 and named after the then-president of the UAE, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in gratitude for his support in realizing the project, the Burj Khalifa is now a multifunctional skyscraper housing residential apartments, offices, wellness centers, lounges, and observation decks in the heart of Downtown Dubai.

Burj Al Arab

Old Dubai: Burj Al Arab under construction in the 1990s. Credit: June G

The construction of the Burj Al Arab, located on what was once Chicago Beach, commenced in 1994 and took five years to complete. Upon its unveiling, a journalist famously exclaimed that it deserved a seven-star rating due to its extraordinary design. Although the hotel has never officially claimed this status, it remains a five-star luxury destination.

Perched on a man-made island, the Burj Al Arab continues to shine as a symbol of luxury and architectural innovation, attracting visitors from around the world and standing tall as a landmark in its own right.

Deira Clocktower

Old Dubai: The Deira Clock Tower in 1968, before the area around it was developed. Credit: R Northway

The Deira Clocktower, constructed between 1963 and 1965, utilized limited resources, including unwashed beach sand for mixing concrete. This choice led to corrosion issues, resulting in repairs in both 1972 and the 1980s. The clocktower was commissioned by Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who received a large clock and decided to create a monument on the approach to Al Maktoum Bridge.

While the clock tower itself has remained largely unchanged, the surrounding area has seen significant urban development. It stands at the junction of Umm Hurair Road and D89. In May 2023, it was announced that the landmark would undergo renovations as part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which will enhance the roundabout with greenery and vibrant lights while replacing the fountain.

Dubai Creek

Old Dubai: A barge at Dubai Creek during the early days of the oil boom. Credit: Simon Adams

Dubai Creek, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the city’s oldest areas, serving as a natural divider between Bur Dubai and Deira. Its historical importance as a trading port dates back to the 1800s, making it a crucial component in the city’s economic development.

As oil was discovered, the creek’s significance as a trading hub led to extensive urban growth surrounding it. Today, Dubai Creek is bustling with activity, constantly evolving with new retail, cultural, and residential spaces. Significant investments are being made to rehabilitate the old walls and pier to better withstand harsh weather conditions, with a budget of Dhs112 million.

Dubai International Airport

Old Dubai: Dubai International Airport, captured between 1969 and 1971. Credit: John Tidy

Since its inception in 1960, Dubai International Airport has served as a gateway to the world. An expansion project in 1969, costing approximately Dhs19.2 million (around Dhs396 million today when adjusted for inflation), marked a significant milestone in its development. At that time, the airport was serviced by nine airlines, connecting to just 20 destinations.

Fast forward to today, and Dubai International Airport has become one of the busiest airports globally, welcoming over 87 million passengers in 2023. It stands as the largest travel hub in the Middle East and is celebrated for having one of the finest airport arrival magazines in the world.

Sheikh Zayed Road

Old Dubai: Camels crossing Sheikh Zayed Road in 1979. Credit: Ray Webster

The transformation of Dubai’s roads and transportation infrastructure is perhaps one of the most striking aspects of its evolution. It is hard to imagine that camels once meandered across what is now the city’s busiest highway. Known as E 11, Sheikh Zayed Road stretches the length of the UAE, from its borders with Saudi Arabia to Oman.

As you drive through Dubai, the skyline is adorned with an array of impressive skyscrapers and futuristic structures, a clear indication of the city’s growth and modernization. It certainly no longer provides a safe passage for camels.

World Trade Centre

Old Dubai: The World Trade Centre under construction. Credit: John R Harris Library

The World Trade Centre, along with its prominent Sheikh Rashid Tower, celebrated its 45th anniversary earlier this year. This iconic structure was the first high-rise to grace Dubai’s skyline, symbolizing the UAE’s ambition to become a global business hub.

Over the past four decades, the World Trade Centre has hosted countless events, boasting over one million square feet of space. It has also welcomed major international productions, including Cirque du Soleil, as well as top artists from various entertainment genres.

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