As part of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority’s (Dubai Culture) mission to safeguard local heritage and strengthen the emirate’s position as a global city that contributes to shaping the cultural and artistic landscape regionally and globally, the Authority is revealing that Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood was announced as one of the winners of the 2022 Experts’ Choice Award.

With positive reviews from publications, such as Fodor’s, Afar Magazine, and Condé Nast Traveler, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is featured on Tripexpert.com as one of the best attractions in Dubai. Lonely Planet says, “Traffic fades to a quiet hum in the labyrinthine lanes of this nicely restored heritage area.”

Mariam Al Tamimi, Acting Director of the Heritage Sites Department in Dubai Culture said: “Dubai’s cultural heritage is a valued treasure of the past that the Authority is safeguarding and connecting with current and future generations. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a reflection of the emirate’s heritage that presents a great opportunity to get acquainted with the old way of life in Dubai, with its rich values that can be seen in the design of the building and the way they are distributed. This recognition consolidates the neighbourhood’s cultural relevance and importance for citizens, residents and visitors.”

The Experts’ Choice Awards are determined by taking into account more than one million reviews from travel guides, magazines, newspapers and other respected sources. Fewer than 2% of attractions globally receive an award.

“In a modern city of skyscrapers, Al Fahidi stands out in providing travelers an opportunity to get a glimpse into traditional life in Dubai,” said Chris Blume, Tripexpert’s chief content officer. “We’re delighted to feature it as one of our Experts’ Choice winners this year.”

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a cultural touristic destination and an incubator where young people can showcase their creative talents and where start-up companies in the cultural sector can showcase their most prominent works. What distinguishes Al Fahidi from other historical neighbourhoods in the emirate is its authentic artistic and creative identity that stems from Emirati heritage.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood seeks to reach different target audiences through a series of events and programmes throughout the year that will reflect the neighbourhood’s vision and artistic and cultural identities. These include innovative interactive experiences to attract the younger generation and art enthusiasts, art forms that reflect the creative and vibrant identity of the neighbourhood, photographic tours that creatively highlight the history and authenticity of the region, and performing arts.