History of Al-Budai (UAE) – البدع
History of Al-Budai (UAE) – البدع
Al-Budai (commonly referred to as Al Bada’a or Al Badaa’ and in older records as Al Budai or Al Bidʿ) is a historically significant area located in what is now modern-day Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Here’s a look into its history:
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📜 Historical Overview
Early Settlement:
• Al Budai was one of the earliest coastal settlements along the Dubai Creek (Khor Dubai), even before Dubai emerged as a dominant trading port.
• It was traditionally inhabited by fishermen, pearl divers, and small trading families.
• The area played a role as part of the network of maritime trade routes that connected the Arabian Peninsula with India, East Africa, and Persia.Tribal Roots:
• The Bani Yas tribe, especially the Al Maktoum family, who settled in Dubai in the 1830s, had influence over the area. Al Budai became part of the early urban formation of Dubai under their leadership.
• It was known as a seasonal settlement used by nomadic Bedouins and coastal traders.Pearl Diving and Trade:
• During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Al Budai contributed to Dubai’s economy through pearling and small-scale trading.
• Boats used for pearl diving were often launched from this area.
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🕌 Cultural and Religious Significance
• Al Budai had mosques, wind towers (barajeel), and traditional coral stone houses.
• It was a tight-knit community, with majlises (gathering spaces) that helped maintain oral history and tribal customs.
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🏙️ Modern Transformation
• Today, the area historically known as Al Budai has been absorbed into greater Dubai, particularly around the Jumeirah and Satwa regions.
• Remnants of old Al Budai can still be found in:
• Old maps
• Oral histories
• Some preserved architecture
• The Etihad Museum, which commemorates the formation of the UAE in 1971, is located near where Al Budai once stood prominently.
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🌍 Importance in UAE History
• While Al Budai might not be as well-known as Dubai or Abu Dhabi today, it holds historical value as part of the roots of Dubai’s emergence.
• Its role in pre-oil UAE, especially in maritime activities and tribal migration, is crucial to understanding the heritage and resilience of the Emirati people.
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