Every story has a beginning. For Dubai, the story starts as a humble pearl diving and fishing village, where wooden sailing boats designed to ply the waters of the Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean were hand-crafted in the shipyards of Al Jaddaf. The dhows built in this quiet crook of Dubai Creek were a bridge between worlds, transporting commodities, people and ideas between the Arabian Peninsula and Middle Eastern ports, inking a crucial chapter in the story of Dubai’s cultural heritage. Continuing the tradition today, Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf is a bridge between old and new.
Set on the edge of the Creek near the ancient shipyards where dhows are still built and maintained, the hotel blends local charm with world-class service at the crossroads of Old and New Dubai. Close to the iconic modern landmarks of Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Dubai World Trade Centre, guests can also find some of the city’s hidden cultural gems on the doorstep.
Heading towards the mouth of Dubai Creek, the Mohammed bin Rashid Library is a repository of rare books, manuscripts and cultural artefacts from across the Arab and Islamic words, while Jameel Arts Centre showcases the work of contemporary artists from across the region with exhibitions and educational initiatives. Further downstream, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the excellent Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding offer an insight into the life, customs and culture of the UAE, past and present.
In the opposite direction, thousands of pink flamingos wade through the protected wetlands of the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary alongside herons, reefs and cormorants, while the creative hub of Dubai Design District provides an incubator for trend-setters and forward-thinkers in the worlds of fashion, culture and design. Beyond the jagged skyline of New Dubai, future possibilities are explored at the Museum of the Future, completing the journey from past to present and looking ahead to the next unwritten chapter.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf is committed to showcasing the best Dubai has to offer by introducing guests to the rich local heritage and culture. As well as 351 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, the hotel is home to seven delectable dining options including Mediterranean dining and urban rooftop vibes at TerraMar restaurant and pool lounge, global flavours at The Market Place and bar bites at BnB; plus freshly brewed coffee and pastries at The Lobby Lounge and authentic Japanese dining at Kimura-Ya. Blending warm Middle Eastern hospitality with unforgettable culinary moments and enriching experiences, Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf is a gateway to the real Dubai.