Dubai unveils heritage trails of Dh9.5m in Deira’s markets to boost tourism and economy

Dubai: Dubai Municipality has completed a Dh9.5 million heritage development project in Deira’s markets, unveiling three heritage trails that span a total of 1,784 metres.

The trails enhance the visitor experience for both residents and tourists while preserving the historic character of the markets and supporting more than 500 shops within Deira’s Grand Souq.

The initiative forms part of Dubai Municipality’s ongoing efforts to celebrate the city’s cultural and architectural heritage, boost tourism, and showcase the emirate’s rich civilisational legacy. It also complements Dubai’s heritage sites protection programme and aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.

The three trails — the Gold Souq Trail (995 metres), the Al Ahmadiya School Heritage Axis (430 metres), and the Spice Souq Axis (359 metres) — span 25,800 square metres and connect seven traditional markets, including the Herbs Market, Spice Souq, Utensils Souq, Perfume Market, Carpets Market, Textiles Souq, and Household Market, in addition to the Gold Souq and Al Ahmadiya area.

The trails link these markets with surrounding historic landmarks, creating an immersive visitor journey that combines culture, shopping, and tourism. Enhancements include rehabilitated public spaces, new fabric shading structures covering 210 square metres and a 200-square-metre canopy behind Bin Naeem Mosque. The project also upgraded shop façade lighting, installed 38 column-mounted signboards and 154 floor markings, and enhanced 770 square metres of pavements.

Dubai Municipality ensured the use of authentic local materials, such as sarooj (lime-based plaster), in restoring market structures and façades, maintaining their cultural integrity. Wooden shading was restored, and open areas upgraded to improve both visitor comfort and visual appeal.

Three public squares were further developed with new seating and enhanced amenities, encouraging visitors to linger while experiencing the markets’ vibrant atmosphere.

Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, said: “Deira, with its heritage and traditional markets, is an inseparable part of Dubai’s cultural and historical identity. This project honours that deep-rooted legacy while keeping pace with the present and future. It reinforces Dubai’s global standing as a cultural and tourism hub, offering experiences that combine authenticity with innovation.”

He added: “The project was carried out with meticulous attention to detail to ensure every feature reflects the area’s history and uniqueness. It enriches the journey for residents and visitors eager to discover Dubai’s past through its bustling markets — spaces where heritage, culture, and commerce converge — while also enhancing economic growth and supporting traders and investors.”

The heritage tourist trails project integrates shopping with cultural exploration, underscoring Dubai Municipality’s commitment to preserving history while enhancing the emirate’s tourism appeal and supporting its role as a global cultural destination, the civic body said.