Dubai Architecture

Long before traveling to Dubai, visitors’ imaginations are often captured by the city’s modern architectural wonders. While many may not be familiar with Arabian wind towers or courtyard houses, most have heard about the enormous sailshaped Burj Al Arab, the indoor snow resort Ski Dubai, and construction of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Dubai. When the World Trade Center was erected in 1979, it stood as the sole skyscraper in a mostly empty desert. Many observers scratched their heads, wondering what the point was of a high-rise in the still sleepy town. Even as late as 1990, most of Sheikh Zayed Road remained an empty sand pit. But today, the World Trade Center appears antiquated next to the sleek high-rises that stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s estimated that up to a quarter of the world’s construction cranes are located here, and Dubai’s skyline may be the fastest growing in history.

This wealthy emirate is home to some of the most innovative and ambitious architectural projects in the world, and the sky seems to be the limit for future developments. Dubai’s original architecture, dating from the late 19th century, was influenced by Iranian, Indian, and Islamic designs. The hot and humid climate, religious and social customs of the inhabitants, and available selection of construction materials were crucial considerations in building styles. The main features were simplicity, functionality, durability, and suitability for the climate.

Early structures were made of stone, palm leaves, and palm tree trunks, with mud substituting for mortar. The majority of Dubai’s first inhabitants lived in barastis, huts made with palm fronds. Later, the strongest available materials, coral stone from the sea and gypsum from the creek’s salt marshes, were used for the emirate’s four common structures watchtowers, mosques, souks, and houses. Islamic emphasis on privacy and modesty factored into the design of courtyard homes, many of which were connected to wind towers for cooling in the summer months.

Buildings were erected close together to create shaded and breezy pedestrian walkways. With Dubai’s oil discovery came an unplanned construction boom that created a hodgepodge of architectural styles. Construction often paid little attention to traditional Islamic architecture or to the environment, and Dubai was not yet courting the world’s attention by building the biggest and the best. Many glass towers were erected requiring enormous amounts of electricity to keep cool. In recent years, builders have become more conscientious about both the environment and Arabic heritage.

Master planning overseen by Dubai’s rulers is leading to more harmonious development. The most efficient heat-resistant materials are increasingly used in construction, and more architects are incorporating traditional designs into their work. Madinat Jumeirah is an excellent example of a thoroughly modern development that celebrates Arabian style. Dubai’s leaders are also making a serious effort at last to protect the emirate’s architectural past, reconstituting the Bastakiya old quarter near the creek and opening museums and cultural centers to commemorate the early days. For more information about Dubai’s early architecture, visit the Architectural Heritage Society (Phone: 4/353-9765 ) in Bastakiya. It’s open Saturday to Wednesday from 8am to 1pm and again from 5 to 8pm.