The Relaxing Saltwater Creek in Dubai

Published on 11 Jul 2025

The saltwater creek is one of the interesting and important travel means in Dubai. It was earlier extended to the Ras Al Khor Sanctuary. However, as a part of the new Dubai canal, the stream was spread all the way through the Persian Gulf. It is widely believed that this creek was known as River Zara in the time of Greeks. Sources think that the stream used to extend far inland (as far as Al Ain) in the older days.

Boats in Dubai Creek

This creek has a very far fledged and interesting history. Earlier, this river used to divide two cities namely, Bur Dubai and Deira. In the early 19th century, members of Bani Yas tribe set up their first establishments, along with the creek area of Bur Dubai. This facility led to the formation of Al Maktoum dynasty. At the beginning of the 20th century, the Dubai Creek served as a mini port for dhows coming from far fledged countries like Africa and India. The creek thus played a significant role in establishing trade and commerce in Dubai. Many times the entry of ships was impeded because of substantial current flow. Dubai Creek has been immensely valuable because it was the only harbor port in the city at that particular point in time. Dubai’s famous pearling industry flourished because of the creek. However, later in the 1930s, the pearling industry gave way to cultured pearls which have now become a specialty of Dubai.

Sunset in Dubai Creek

Fishing was a favorite sport in Dubai during the 19th and the 20th century. Apart from being a loved sport, it was also a means of livelihood for people over here. The shallow and warm waters of Dubai Creek used to support a plethora of aquatic life. There were Dhows built on the foreshore of this creek for fishing. The Dubai Creek significantly improved for the passage of massive vessels. Facilities for loading and unloading activities were developed. Thus a huge plan to develop the creek was passed in 1955. The first work of dredging the creek was completed in 1961. This dredging resulted in an easy passage for huge vessels (up to 7 feet).

Photoshop in Dubai Creek

Another attempt at dredging was made in the 1970s. This was mainly done to provide anchorage for coastal and local shipping till up to 500 tons. As a result, there was a huge opening in the creek which facilitated trade and provided unhindered passage to the marine vessels. This dredging operation gave a huge advantage to Dubai over Sharjah, the ruling trading center in the region at that particular point in time. Opportunities for re-export also developed.

The importance of the creek has now diminished to a great extent. However, smaller facilities like Port Saeed continue to flourish along the Dubai Creek, thus providing porting to many traders in the region.

There are some iconic and fascinating structures and buildings constructed alongside the Creek. They are:

Dubai Creek Tower
National Bank
Deira Twin Towers
Sheraton Dubai Creek
Chamber of Commerce
Dubai Creek Park

This creek is also home to the Grand Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, which is the most iconic destination here. Inaugurated in 1993, this club has hosted a plethora of events and tournaments. It comprises of the 18-hole golf course, clubhouses, Park Hyatt hotel and residential units. Lined with coconut trees and date palms, this place has a tropical air and offers a distinct and vibrant aura to its visitors. The fairways are well groomed and the attractive shrubbery and waterways offer extreme scenic beauty to people. It is an ideal blend of heritage with modernity, luxury, and style.

The creek naturally ends at the Ras Al Khor Sanctuary. All in all, it stretches for a length of 14-kilometers. There are many crossings and they can be listed as:

Al Maktoum Bridge
Al Garhoud Bridge
Al Shindagha Tunnel
Floating Bridge
Business Bay Crossing

Dubai Creek Seaplane View

The Government of Dubai is also planning to launch two more crossings namely, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Crossing and Dubai Smile. Additionally, a brand new project comprising of seven islands has been proposed to be built on the Dubai Creek. These islands will be collectively known as ‘The Lagoons’. The centerpiece of these islands will be the Dubai Towers. These towers will be huge with the tallest one being 400 meters and other two being 300 meters. Three additional bridges will be added namely, the Al Shindagha Bridge, Seventh Crossing and the Fifth Bridge.

Water taxis are usually the preferred mode of transport here. You can, however, make your journey grand by enjoying a sunset dinner cruise. This dinner cruise is set on the traditional Arabian Dhow. Reach the creek early in the morning or in the evening to get the best deal. Enjoy some peaceful moments amid the bustling life of Dubai.

The Dubai Creek is one of the most boasted destinations in Dubai. The entire creek package is very much affordable and budget friendly. Visit the place for a quiet and blissful experience. You will surely not be disappointed.