Deira Clocktower — Attraction in Al Muraqqabat

Location Dubai Clock Tower is located at the intersection of Umm Hurair Road and route D 89 (Al Maktoum Road) in the locality of Al Rigga. Now a prominent monument in Deira, the roundabout provides access to the Al Maktoum Bridge, the first land crossing constructed between Deira and Bur Dubai. The surrounding area is commercially important, and includes the offices of major international airlines operating in UAE.

It can be reached by Dubai Metro. The nearest metro station is Al-Rigga on the Red Line.

History The Dubai Clock Tower was built in 1965 and was designed by Otto Bullard and Ziki Homsi,a partner at Architecture Design Construction (ADC) Office. It was erected as a symbol of Dubai and located in Deira because major routes into Dubai converged prior to the building of Dubai–Abu Dhabi Road.

Engineer Edgar Bublik, who was General Manager of Overseas AST in Dubai in the 1970s, explains the background of the Dubai Clock Tower:

“Shaikh Ahmed of Qatar was Shaikh Rashid’s son-in-law. In the early 1960s Shaikh Ahmed gave Shaikh Rashid a clock as a gift. It was a very large clock. Shaikh Rashid did not know what to do with such a large clock! My predecessor Mr Bulard had just completed building Zabeel Palace for Shaikh Rashid so he made a sketch of his idea for a Clock Tower. Mr Bulard gave the sketch to his engineer to make the structural calculations and produce a design. The shape and design of the Clock Tower was from Mr Bulard’s own ideas and did not represent an Oil Drilling Bit or any other object.”

Bahria Town built replica of Deira Clock tower in Bahria Town Lahore Pakistan called Bahria Clock Tower.

In May 2023, it was announced the landmark is about to obtain a new look after the renovation that is going to be undertaken by the Dubai Municipality. According to Khaleej Times, this will add greenery and multi-colored lights and replace the design of the fountain with a new one as part of Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. Deira is one of the oldest and most established areas of Dubai, its origins date back to the mid-1700s, it developed along the canal called Dubai Creek, this saltwater canal separates Deira from Bur Dubai. The canal enabled the area to develop in importance; it facilitated the sea trade, which is still operational today, thanks to the traditional dhow boats which still load and unload hundreds of tons of goods on the canal docks every day In 1841, a smallpox epidemic broke out in the Bur Dubai district, forcing residents to relocate east to Deira. History In 1896, a fire broke out alongside Dubai Creek, a disastrous occurrence in a town where many family homes were still constructed from barasti – palm fronds. The conflagration consumed half the houses of Bur Dubai, while the district of Deira was said to have been totally destroyed. In the following years, more fires broke out and in 1908 the "great storm" struck the pearling boats of Dubai and the coastal emirates towards the end of the pearling season that year, resulting in the loss of a dozen boats and over 100 men. The disaster was a major setback for Dubai, with many families losing their breadwinners and merchants facing financial ruin. In the following years, more fires broke out and in 1908 the "great storm" struck the pearling boats of Dubai and the coastal emirates towards the end of the pearling season that year, resulting in the loss of a dozen boats and over 100 men. The disaster was a major setback for Dubai, with many families losing their breadwinners and merchants facing financial ruin.

These losses came at a time when the tribes of the interior were also experiencing poverty. In a letter to the Sultan of Muscat in 1911, Sheikh Butti bin Suhail Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai at the time, laments, "Misery and poverty are raging among them, with the result that they are struggling, looting and killing...

The Dubai Clock Tower, located in Deira, is one of Dubai’s most iconic and historic landmarks. Built in 1965, this clock tower holds a special place in the city’s history as it commemorates Dubai’s first oil exports. Despite being somewhat overshadowed by Dubai's new skyscrapers and modern architecture, the Dubai Clock Tower still stands as a testament to the city’s incredible transformation and growth over the years.

Architecture & Design: The clock tower’s architecture is a simple yet elegant example of mid-20th-century design, showcasing elements of modernism with a traditional touch. Designed by Zaki Al Husseini, it has a unique, open structure with four curved arches that converge at the top, holding a clock on each side. The clock itself, updated over the years, remains functional and is visible from a considerable distance, serving as a timeless feature in the area. The design is simple but effective, creating a strong visual impact while maintaining an understated elegance. Compared to the glitzy high-rises and extravagant landmarks Dubai is known for, the Clock Tower offers a refreshing, minimalist charm.

Historic Significance: One of the aspects I truly appreciate about the Dubai Clock Tower is its historic significance. This is one of Dubai’s first architectural landmarks, built when the city was still emerging on the global stage. For long-time residents and visitors, it represents the beginning of Dubai’s journey towards becoming the modern metropolis it is today. The Clock Tower reminds us of the city’s roots, its early development, and the resilience that has shaped its path to success.

Surrounding Area & Accessibility: Located in the Deira district, the Clock Tower is easily accessible from various parts of the city. It's situated at a busy roundabout, connecting several main roads in Dubai, making it easy to reach by car, metro, or even a short walk from nearby locations. However, due to its placement in a busy traffic zone, it’s not the easiest place to explore up close. While the roundabout adds to the challenge of pedestrian access, there are viewpoints and sidewalks nearby from where visitors can safely admire the Clock Tower and take photos.

The surrounding area is bustling with shops, cafes, and hotels, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring Deira’s more traditional side. Nearby, you’ll find the Dubai Creek, Al Ghurair Centre, and various souks, which add to the experience of visiting the Clock Tower.

Night View & Lighting: One of the highlights of visiting the Dubai Clock Tower is seeing it at night. The tower is beautifully illuminated after sunset, which emphasizes its elegant structure and adds a soft glow to the surrounding area. The lighting enhances the tower’s architectural lines, creating a serene and picturesque view against the evening sky. It’s especially appealing for photographers who want to capture a unique perspective of Dubai's early architecture.

Recommendation: While the Dubai Clock Tower might not offer the excitement of other Dubai attractions, it is definitely worth a visit, especially for those interested in the city’s heritage and history. It’s a humble yet powerful reminder of Dubai’s transformation and holds cultural significance for locals and long-time residents. I’d recommend stopping by if you’re exploring Deira or Dubai Creek, as the Clock Tower adds a meaningful touch to the experience. It might be understated, but this iconic structure is a must-see for anyone looking to appreciate Dubai beyond its...

If there's one iconic landmark that stands out in the bustling cityscape of Dubai, it's the Clock Tower. As a history enthusiast and a Dubai local, I recently had the opportunity to visit this historic site and was captivated by its timeless beauty and significance. Here's my review of the Clock Tower in Dubai, a place that holds a special place in the hearts of both tourists and locals alike.

Located in the vibrant district of Deira, the Clock Tower is an architectural marvel that has stood tall for decades. Its distinct design features a tall tower with a clock face on each of its four sides, adorned with golden Arabic numerals and intricate details that reflect the rich heritage and culture of the United Arab Emirates. The tower is set against a backdrop of modern skyscrapers, making for a striking contrast that symbolizes the city's journey from its humble beginnings to its current status as a global metropolis.

One of the things that struck me the most about the Clock Tower is its age. Built in 1965, it is one of the oldest structures in Dubai and serves as a testament to the city's rich history and rapid development over the years. As I stood at the base of the tower, I couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship and engineering that went into its construction, and the significance it holds as a landmark that has witnessed Dubai's transformation into a cosmopolitan city.

Aside from its historical significance, the Clock Tower is also a functional timekeeping mechanism that serves as a landmark for locals and tourists alike. Its four clock faces are synchronized to display the accurate time, and the tower's glowing presence is visible from afar, making it a useful point of reference when navigating through the bustling streets of Deira. It's also a popular spot for taking photographs, with visitors posing against the backdrop of the tower, capturing timeless memories to cherish.

Another aspect that makes the Clock Tower a must-visit location in Dubai is its accessibility. Located at the intersection of Umm Hurair Road and Maktoum Bridge, it's easily accessible by public transportation and has ample parking spaces nearby. This makes it a convenient destination for tourists and locals alike who are looking to explore the rich history of Dubai.

As I explored the area surrounding the Clock Tower, I was pleasantly surprised by the vibrant atmosphere and the buzzing street life of Deira. The surrounding area is home to numerous shops, cafes, and markets, where one can experience the authentic charm of Dubai's old town. The aroma of exotic spices, the vibrant colors of textiles, and the hustle and bustle of the marketplaces create an immersive sensory experience that transports you to a bygone era.

In conclusion, the Clock Tower in Dubai is a must-visit location for anyone looking to delve into the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Its timeless beauty, historical significance, and convenient location make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, or simply looking to capture some stunning photographs, the Clock Tower is a must-see landmark that embodies the spirit of Dubai's past...