Thirteenth Global Studies Conference

Abstract

Souqs are traditional Islamic market places that emerged out from economical and socio-cultural activities stemmed from the faith of Islam. The literature highlights that early developments of Islamic cities were centered on market places. As the souks transformed over time under the influence of rapid urbanization, the spatial dimensions also have changed to accommodate the growing need of the Middle Eastern Cities. Rapid urbanization and change in economic activities paved the way for a modernistic attractive built environment and thereby the resultant decay of old urban fabric in the city and lost identity. This paper explores the case of Dubai, a rapid urbanization hotspot were souqs started gaining importance to regain the cultural identity. Up on different typology of souqs, the Kaisariya typology of traditional souqs in Dubai is susceptible to transformations in spatial configurations and qualities because of the detached volume of spaces of the souq. The values and significance of souq as a cultural heritage and its historic identity in the resultant attractive urban environment pave way for a historic integrity assessment to maintain authenticity. The physical evidence of the souqs that exists today is emphasizing the need for prolonging the historic integrity of souks to impart historic identity.