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Home News Dubai's Iconic Landmarks: A Nostalgic Look Back

Remembering Dubai's Iconic Landmarks: A Nostalgic Journey

Aug 23, 2026
104 min
3
Aug 23, 2026 03:31
From the Toyota building to Dubai Zoo: Remembering Dubai’s iconic landmarks

## The Toyota Building

The Toyota Building, officially the Nasser Rashid Lootah Building, has been a fixture on Sheikh Zayed Road for over 50 years. Known for its prominent Toyota sign, it is slated for demolition in 2027, marking the end of an era for this iconic structure.

## Chicago Beach Hotel

Opened in 1977, the Chicago Beach Hotel was one of Dubai's first major beachfront resorts. It was demolished in 1997 to make way for the Burj Al Arab and Wild Wadi Waterpark, transforming the area into a luxury destination.

## Hard Rock Cafe

The original Hard Rock Cafe on Sheikh Zayed Road, with its giant crossed guitars, was a notable landmark from 1997 until its closure in 2009. It was demolished in 2013, but the brand continues at Dubai Festival City Mall.

## Golden Cinema

Golden Cinema, also known as Plaza Cinema, opened in 1972 in Bur Dubai. It was a popular venue for Indian films until its closure in 2015, after which it was demolished.

## Al Nasr Cinema

Located on Oud Metha Road, Al Nasr Cinema was a beloved single-screen theatre from the early 1980s until its closure in 2006. It was later damaged by fire and faced competition from modern multiplexes.

## Strand Cinema

Strand Cinema in Bur Dubai was a popular spot for Bollywood and Western films from the 1970s until its closure around 2004, as the city transitioned to multiplex cinemas.

## Dubai Zoo

Dubai Zoo, opened in 1967, was a cherished destination for school trips until its closure in 2017. The site is being redeveloped into a residential community, but it remains a nostalgic memory for many.

## Ramada Hotel

The Ramada Hotel in Bur Dubai, operational from 1983 to 2016, was a well-known fixture in the area. It has since been demolished to make way for new developments.

## Lamcy Plaza

Lamcy Plaza, a community mall in Oud Metha, opened in 1997 and was a popular shopping destination until a fire in 2017 halted its operations. Its future remains uncertain after being sold at auction in 2025.

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