Dubai unveils plans to convert old buildings, areas into 'open museums'

The Executive Council of Dubai has approved plans to convert the country's old neighbourhoods and buildings built between 1960’s and 1990’s into "open museum of human heritage".

The restoration is part of the second phase of the project dedicated to preserving the emirate’s heritage architecture, Khaleej Times reported.

Announcing the project, Dubai’s Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, said, "By protecting our heritage architecture, we seek to promote a deeper understanding among citizens, residents and visitors of what has shaped the emirate into the thriving metropolis it is today."

"We have a responsibility to celebrate our history and protect our architectural treasures for future generations," he added.

In the second phase of the restoration and preservation 35 sites will be focused which include, Deira Clock Tower, Dubai Courts Building and Jumeirah Zoo among others.

The first phase covered 17 archaeological sites, 14 historical areas, and 741 buildings from Dubai’s earlier history.

In addition to this, Sheikh Hamdan has also approved the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, which aims to improve everyday life for its citizens.

Under the strategy, 30 new parks, beach cycling tracks, night swimming beaches and walking tracks will be built.

Moreover, more than 3,000 trees and plants will be planted.