Fodor's Expert Review Dhow Boatyards

It might be the age of container ships, but, as can be seen toward the mouth of the Dubai creek, old wooden dhows are still very much a part of Dubai's thriving import/export industry. It's still possible to view the manual building of these vessels along the banks of Dubai Creek. Each dhow builder eyes the length and width of wooden planks needed to create the curving shape of the bow, then produces it with no plans and few modern tools. Be sure to watch your step if you visit the yards. They aren't common tourist attractions and construction materials and equipment are often left lying around. Those who wish to play it safe can view from the other side of the creek. At sunset, the terrace bar of the Intercontinental Festival City provides a contrasting silhouette of the dhow skeletons set before the spiky skyscrapers of the DIFC. While culturally significant, this area tends to be dangerous.