Dubai boasts the fame of the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and massive shopping centres. These are the places where tourists tend to go. However, aside from the malls and skyscrapers, there is so much more that Dubai holds in store for curious visitors. Venture further and get ready to see peaceful communities, groups of flamingoes, heart-shaped lakes in the desert, and streets that remind us of another era. Such places really exist. They are stunning. And above all else, they are uncrowded. Here are five hidden gems in Dubai worth adding to your trip.

1. Al Fahidi Historical District

Courtesy Dubai Culture Not everyone knows that Dubai’s story began long before the skyline. Al Fahidi is the oldest neighbourhood in Dubai and bears no resemblance to what tourists usually see on picture cards about Dubai. The narrow streets of the place are covered by palm trees' branches and shadows. Coral stone and mud make up the building material of the houses, and high wind towers are placed on roofs. They were built before any air conditioners existed; the towers helped pull cold air in. Among all kinds of galleries, craft shops, cafes with cosy courtyards, and other facilities, there is even the Dubai Museum, located inside an 18th-century fort, with entry priced affordably. Enjoying Arabic coffee from the menu of traditional local cafes together with some dates can be a pleasant memory from such tours forever after.

2. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Courtesy Visit Dubai This one will surprise you. Right in the middle of the city, surrounded by roads and buildings, there is a wildlife sanctuary full of flamingos. If you ask any local about the most fascinating secret spots of Dubai, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary will certainly come first on that list. Many birds inhabit it, mostly in winter. The flamingo is the star of this place, but many others will also attract your attention. There are free viewing shelters available throughout the sanctuary for visitors to observe all the birds there. This way, you can see the birds closely without bothering them. Admission is free. It seems unbelievable to have such a place right at the heart of Dubai. Yet it is the reality. Few tourists even realise its existence when they drive past it.

3. Alserkal Avenue

Courtesy Tripadvisor Are you interested in art, coffee, and the world of independent creativity? If yes, then Alserkal Avenue is right up your alley. All the warehouses located in the industrial area of Al Quoz have been transformed into something different by the city's creatives and artists. The centre of all activities is called Alserkal Avenue, which is a cultural and arts district of Dubai where you will find street art, art galleries, boutiques, and even a cinema hall! You won't see the same luxury and glitz in Alserkal Avenue as in other parts of the city; rather, this is a place that reminds one of a creative neighbourhood similar to what we see in Brooklyn and Berlin. Many art galleries exhibit contemporary pieces of art made by both local and international artists. There are small, cosy cafes here too.

4. Love Lake, Al Qudra

Courtesy Visit Dubai The location of Love Lake is about 45 minutes’ drive from downtown. Love Lake lies deep in the desert and comprises two lakes in the shape of intertwined hearts. A desert scenery, along with nature hikes, usually attracts couples or family visitors. Nonetheless, Love Lake is a unique destination for many because of the possibility of taking stunning sunset pictures there. The serene water of the lake, along with the expansive desert surroundings, makes the place picturesque. One can ride a bike around the lake and even spend time picnicking or bird watching. Entry into Love Lake is absolutely free of cost. There are no entry gates, no tickets and nothing else that makes it a crowded place. Late afternoon is the best time for visiting this lake. Sunset at Love Lake provides a view of breathtaking shades of orange and pink over the desert landscape.

5. Umm Suqeim Beach

Courtesy Bayut Whereas most people tend to flock to exclusive beach resorts, there is one beach in Dubai that is ignored by everybody but has some scenery that cannot be matched elsewhere. One such beach that has gained immense fame owing to its tranquillity, beautiful sunsets, and amazing scenery of Burj Al Arab is known as Umm Suqeim Beach, which is also locally referred to as Sunset Beach. Entry into Umm Suqeim Beach is absolutely free of charge. All you need to do is go there, lie down on the beach and enjoy yourself watching Burj Al Arab being painted golden at sunset. On the contrary, the surroundings are so captivating that you will definitely want to take photographs of yourself enjoying the environment. The available amenities at Umm Suqeim Beach are wi-fi, lockers, shower facilities, and toilet services. In addition, there are children's playing areas, jogging tracks, and an observation area of Burj Al Arab. Another great thing about this beach is that people are allowed to swim after dark. A privilege not granted to anyone else in the UAE. Moreover, special lights along the coast will ensure a safe bathing experience. Dubai is much more than just what one may see in travel posters. The city is packed with towers and fancy malls; this represents one side of Dubai. On the other hand, there is another side that is rather tranquil and interesting. It has flamingos nesting in the middle of the city. Lakes that look like hearts in the desert sands. Roads whose history goes back hundreds of years. Beaches on which you can swim at night. A small museum dedicated to the world’s history is contained in a cup of coffee. All it takes is some curiosity to discover these places. There is no need for an expensive tour or a detailed schedule. Begin here, and the rest will come.