The Bastakia Quarter in Bur Dubai is one of the city’s most picturesque heritage sites. It was built in the late 19th century by Persian merchants attracted to the city by its relaxed trade tariffs and takes it name from the town of Bastak in southern Iran.
The area has been declared a conservation area and its narrow alleys pedestrianised. Many of the restored buildings here feature wind towers, an early but effective form of air-conditioning. Some are private homes, but many are open to the public.