How Was Dubai Named?

There are several theories regarding the origin of the name "Dubai," rather than one definitive answer.

According to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's website, the naming of Dubai is attributed to multiple historical theories passed down through generations. While no single origin is universally accepted, these theories offer fascinating insights into the historical context of the region.

Theories on the Origin of the Name Dubai

The reference provided from hamdan.ae highlights two primary theories regarding how the city was named:

• Theory 1: The "Two Brothers" Connection

  • One popular theory suggests that the name "Dubai" is derived from a combination of two Farsi (Persian) words:
    • Du: Meaning "two"
    • Bai: Meaning "brothers"
  • This interpretation is believed to refer to the two main districts that historically formed the core of the settlement: Deira and Bur Dubai. These areas are separated by the Dubai Creek and have long been considered the heart of the city, like two sibling communities facing each other across the water.

• Theory 2: The "Smaller Daba Market" Link

  • Another theory proposes that the name "Dubai" originated from the perspective of early inhabitants or visitors.
  • It is believed that people named the settlement "Dubai" because they perceived its souq (market) as a smaller version of a well-known and thriving market called 'Daba'. Daba was historically an important trade hub in the region. The emerging market in Dubai was seen as analogous to Daba, perhaps on a smaller scale at the time, leading to the diminutive or comparative name.

These theories, as mentioned on the official website, underscore the historical significance of Dubai Creek as a dividing line and the importance of trade and markets in the early formation of the city.

It's important to note that both of these explanations are considered theories, reflecting the lack of definitive historical records on the precise moment and reason for the naming.