Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Historical Dubai City Tour

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About this experience

Dubai is defined by futuristic cityscapes, but it’s also home to traditional old quarters. This 4-hour tour spotlights the Dubai of old, with time in the historical Al Fahidi district, Dubai Museum, Gold and Spice souks, and more. An ‘abra’ boat ride across Dubai Creek and photo stops at modern landmarks including the Burj Al Arab add extra, interesting touches. Minivan transport and hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the tour.
• 4-hour tour of historical Dubai
• See the old Al Fahidi quarter of wind tower houses and courtyards
• Visit Dubai Museum to chart the city’s history from ancient times
• Cross Dubai Creek by wooden 'abra' and explore the Spice Souk, Gold Souk, and Heritage Village
• Stop for photos of modern Dubai landmarks including the Burj Al Arab
• Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi entrance fees, air-conditioned minivan transport, and hotel pickup and drop-off included

Available options

Historical Dubai City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

See the old Al Fahidi quarter of wind tower houses and courtyards

Hotel pickup and drop-off from Dubai hotels

Stop for photos of modern Dubai landmarks including the Burj Al Arab

Visit Dubai Museum to chart the city’s history from ancient times

4-hour tour of historical Dubai

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

What you'll see

After hotel pickup in Dubai, settle inside your air-conditioned minivan and set off on your 4-hour tour of old Dubai. As you travel, hear about Dubai’s history, learning how and why it has grown from a small fishing and trading port to the dynamic metropolis of today. Hear about the 19th-century merchants who came here to trade pearls and other goods, and explore the area where they settled: the old districts of Al Fahidi and Al Bastakiya.

See the restored wind tower houses and narrow lanes, and visit Dubai Museum, housed in the 18th-century Al Fahidi fort. Trace Dubai’s history through the displays, and continue to Dubai Creek, the natural waterway winding through Deira and Bur Dubai.

Admire the cityscapes as you cross by wooden abra water taxi, and stroll and shop for souvenirs at Deira’s traditional Spice and Gold souks.

Call at Dubai Heritage Village to explore the replica old houses and learn about bygone life in the city, and then drive into modern Dubai.

Pass through Jumeirah, and take photos of the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach as your guide reveals more about these and other local landmarks.

Your tour concludes with a hotel drop-off.

What's not included

Gratuities

Meals & drinks unless specified

Entrance to Burj Al Arab

Available languages

Audio guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Written guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 3.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The National Museum of Dubai is closed only on Fridays before 15h00hrs

Children below 3 years are free of charge

Most travelers can participate

This tour/activity will have a maximum of 50 travelers

About Dubai

Dubai is a city of superlatives, known for its futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant culture. It offers a unique blend of traditional Arabic heritage and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world, offering breathtaking views from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours AED 149-500 (USD 40-140)

Dubai Mall

One of the largest shopping malls in the world, featuring a vast array of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.

Shopping Half day to full day Free entry, activities vary in cost

Palm Jumeirah

A man-made island shaped like a palm tree, featuring luxury resorts, residential areas, and the iconic Atlantis The Palm resort.

Architecture Half day to full day Varies by activity

Old Dubai (Al Fahidi)

The historic district of Dubai, showcasing traditional Emirati architecture, museums, and cultural experiences.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore, museum entry AED 3 (USD 0.80)

Dubai Creek

A historic waterway that divides Dubai into two main sections, offering traditional abra rides and access to souks.

Cultural 2-3 hours AED 1 (USD 0.30) for abra ride

Dubai Marina

A modern waterfront district featuring luxury yachts, high-rise buildings, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene.

Waterfront Half day to full day Free to explore, activities vary in cost

Must-Try Local Dishes

Al Harees

A traditional Emirati dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency.

Main Course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians.

Machboos

A spiced rice dish cooked with meat, typically chicken or lamb, and flavored with saffron and cardamom.

Main Course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians.

Luqaimat

Sweet dumplings made from a batter of flour, yeast, and cardamom, deep-fried and drizzled with date syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten.

Kahwa

A traditional Arabic coffee flavored with cardamom and served with dates.

Drink Contains caffeine, can be prepared with or without sugar.

Popular Activities

Dune bashing Skydiving Hot air ballooning Skiing at Ski Dubai Beach lounging Spa treatments Yacht cruises Shopping

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the best time to visit Dubai, with pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city hosts numerous events and festivals during this period.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED)

Time Zone

GMT+4

Electricity

220-240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Dubai is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid sharing personal information with strangers

Getting there

By air

Dubai International Airport • 5 km from city center
Al Maktoum International Airport • 50 km from city center

By bus

Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Gold Souk Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned. Uses a contactless payment system (Nol Card).

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Dubai Jumeirah Deira Dubai Marina

Day trips

Abu Dhabi

140 km from Dubai • Full day

The capital of the UAE, offering a mix of modern architecture and traditional heritage sites.

Hatta

115 km from Dubai • Half day to full day

A picturesque mountain area with a dam, heritage village, and outdoor activities.

Musandam Peninsula

200 km from Dubai • Overnight

A stunning coastal area known as the 'Norway of Arabia' for its fjords and clear waters.

Festivals

Dubai Shopping Festival • January-February Dubai World Cup • March Dubai Food Festival • February-March

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Use the Nol Card for easy and discounted access to public transport.
Bargain when shopping in souks, but do so politely and respectfully.
Try traditional Emirati dishes at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Book tickets for popular attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, in advance to avoid long queues.