One of the oldest hoods in Dubai, Al-Satwa is best known for its dense retail shops, busy streets, and crazy mashed-up community. This place takes you out of the typical glamerous picture the media paints of Dubai. Simple and cheap, yet full of hidden gems, this neighborhood is mostly visited by locals or long-terms expats who know the hotspots. Vivid, lively and vibrant especially after dark, it is great to just take a walk and get lost in this place; something that you'd rarely get to experience in D-town. The greatest asset of Al-Satwa is its residents and shopkeepers. Known to be super friendly and helpful, most people you meet here are fantastic storytellers with lots to tell, so don't hesitate to strike up a conversation with a worker, your waiter or the guy trying to sell you flowers; their stories will make your experience unforgettable!
Print is definitely not dead here! Walk into a world of the best book collection in the neighborhood.
This tiny shop hidden down an alley in Al-Satwa got lots of buzz going. Select your textile from any of the nearby shops, and head to City Land to get your dress made. It is best to have an item you want copied, or a picture of the design you're looking for. You'll soon find out that making your own clothes has its own kind of rush, especially when it's so much easier on the pocket!
