This is the region’s most prestigious revitalisation initiative - a monumental project that seeks to preserve Dubai’s heritage, and an ambitious plan that aims to position the emirate as a vibrant metropolis.Called the Creekfront Development, this exclusive heritage project has set its foundation at the very place where it all began – Khor Dubai. In essence, the development will be revitalising the heart of Dubai; and through this initiative seeks to instill a sense of pride in the city.

In line with the Dubai Strategic Plan 2015, Sama Dubai, (the international real estate development and investment arm of Dubai Holding), has been entrusted to develop the Creek as a solid historical point of reference to Dubai's roots.

The Creekfront Development will feature low rise buildings, adapting traditional architecture thus creating an ambience evocative of Dubai’s past.

The mixed-use development comprises of museums, galleries, performing arts centres, five star boutique hotels, exclusive waterfront residential areas, world class marinas, traditional retail outlets, boutique offices, public plazas, and creek front walks. Parking spaces will be increased from just 1,000 at present to 10,000.

This major revitalization involves the integration of the Creek's five key historic districts; Al Shindagha, Al Seef, Old Souk Walk, Baniyas, and Deira Old Souk (previously known as Bander Taleb); linking them by preserving their heritage, promoting creativity and fostering diversity.

In the early 18th century, when Dubai was just a small fishing and trading village, life centred around Khor Dubai, a flourishing coastal town. It was the most important trading point between the Arab world and the rest of the world. Testimony to its success is the Deira Old Souk which, at the start of the 20th century, had more than 350 shops.

In 1954, when the Creek was dredged further, it became a commercial artery. Khor Dubai thus served as the lifeline for this city: the seat of governance, the centre for commerce and trade, and home to most of its residents.

Over the years, Khor Dubai has maintained its importance in Dubai’s rapidly changing landscape. Today, the Creek is where the city still beats to an ancient rhythm. It continues to bear witness to a rich, ancient legacy and is home to close-knit communities that share the same customs and heritage.

It is remarkable that even after all these years, Khor Dubai continues to be a vital landmark of Dubai - a reminder that this is where the city’s change towards global recognition began.

The Creek Development project also seeks to preserve the authenticity and rich heritage assets of Khor Dubai to remember the origins, the traditions and the people who made Dubai what it is today.

The development project incorporates the best of Dubai’s past and present in a unique vision which provides for a future filled with opportunity and energy. By integrating the five key historic areas and, at the same time, retaining their intrinsic traditional flavour, Khor Dubai will become a primary centre for tourism, commerce and living heritage.

Amongst the main five historic areas, as mentioned, is the Deira Old Souk which will be represented as a place of connections and transition, symbolising the meeting of the past with the present and of local and regional cultures. It will be showcased as a hub of adventure and excitement, manifesting the journey the city has taken and the future paths it will tread. At the Deira Old Souk the focus is primarily on enhancing the pedestrian and retail experience.

It is a revitalisation opportunity that spans an area of 3,965,209 sq ft and an investment value of AED 7 billion. This development will feature buildings with a maximum height of two floors offering a majestic low-rise lifestyle choice. An adaptive use of traditional architecture, creating an ambience evocative of Dubai in the past, will bring this landmark development to life.

This cultural initiative, where the ‘future is proud of its past', will encapsulate a vibrant present, and embrace a promising future. It will also position the Creek and Dubai as one of the most comprehensive cultural destinations in the world.

Total no. of words: 956
Submitted by Sangeetha Swaroop