DUBAI, Jan 31 (KUNA) -- Murshid Market, located in the heart of the historic Deira district, stands as a living testament to an early stage in Dubai's commercial history and a reflection of the deep-rooted fraternal relations that bound the United Arab Emirates and the State of Kuwait.
The market embodies an early model of economic and social integration between the two Arabian Gulf nations, according to a report published by the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on Saturday.
The report coincides with the "UAE and Kuwait... Brothers Forever" week celebrations.
The market dates back to the period between 1944 and 1949 when Kuwaiti businessman Murshid Al-Osaimi arrived in Dubai and began his commercial activities, laying the foundation for one of the oldest commercial markets in the emirate. It was later named after him in recognition of his pioneering contributions.
In its early stages, Murshid Market served as a major center for wholesale trade, exports, and imports, contributing to the revitalization of commercial activity before the emergence of modern shopping malls.
It also played a vital role in meeting the needs of the local market and connecting Dubai to regional trade routes.
The market boasts a strategic location in the historic Deira district, near prominent commercial landmarks such as the Gold Souk and Naif Souk, as well as the Emirati Women's Museum.
This has solidified its position as both a commercial and tourist destination, in addition to the diverse range of products it offers, including perfumes, fabrics, spices, jewelry, antiques, electronics, and more.
Among the most distinctive features of Murshid Market are its competitive prices, which attract both shoppers and merchants, its heritage atmosphere reflecting Emirati and Arab culture, and its easy accessibility via public transportation.
The market continues to enjoy widespread popularity, attracting visitors and tourists from around the world, thanks to ongoing efforts to develop the Deira heritage area.
Kuwaiti businessman Murshid Al-Osaimi was born in the 1920s and left Kuwait in 1944 for Dubai in search of work. He later became one of the emirate's most prominent merchants, starting in the timber trade before expanding his business to include real estate, commerce, and entertainment. He opened the first cinema in Deira in 1956.
Al-Osaimi's role was not limited to the commercial sector; it extended to the educational and administrative fields. He contributed to the work of the Kuwait Office in Dubai before its official opening in 1963 and played a prominent role in supporting the beginnings of formal education in Dubai, earning him the title "Father of Teachers" in recognition of his humanitarian contributions.
In his book "My Story: 50 Memories from 50 Years of Service", UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, mentioned Murshid Al-Osaimi as an example of cooperation between the two countries in the pre-union era.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid stated in his book that Kuwait was not just another country for Emirates but rather an integral part of their lives as their children were studying there schools and their patients treated in its hospitals.
Many are unaware that Murshid Market, one of Dubai's most famous traditional markets, is named after a distinguished Kuwaiti businessman, Murshid Al-Osaimi, and that formal education was introduced to Dubai through teachers from Kuwait, Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid wrote.
Thus, Murshid Market is not merely a traditional market in Dubai; it tells a story of deep-rooted brotherhood, a historical partnership, and human and economic integration that has spanned decades.
This partnership was embodied by influential figures who made a difference and contributed to building strong bridges between the UAE and Kuwait, the effects of which are still felt today. (end) skm.ibi