Old Markets and Old Town Cultural Tour in Dubai
Active
2h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Delve deeper into the sights and culture of traditional Dubai than you could do alone easily on this tour. Rather than spend hours researching what to see, do and eat in old Dubai, rely on a guide to save time and ensure you don’t miss anything. Shop in souks with tips from your guide, cross the creek by “abra” water taxi, visit Dubai Museum, roam the Al Fahidi quarter and enjoy street food, Arabic coffee and other tastings.
Available options
Group Tour with Hotel Pickup
Hotel Pickup: Choose this option to enjoy a convenient pickup from your hotel at the start of the tour. This option does not include a drop<br/>Food Tasting: Many Tastings : Includes Shawarma/Falafel, Frssh Juice, chai Tea, mineral water, Arabic coffee, Dtaes with chocolate.
Tour with Food Tasting
Food Tasting: Many Tastings : Includes Shawarma/Falafel, Frssh Juice, chai Tea, mineral water, Arabic coffee, Dtaes with chocolate.
Tour without Food Tasting
Only Tour: This option doesn’t include any tastings, it includes only guide, boat ride, water and entry to places
What's included
Entry ticket to the heritage sites
Shopping time
Shawarma and falafel (premium option)
Traditional boat ride (Abra)
Gold Souk Market
Street Food tastings
Juice (pomegranate, coconut, orange, and sugarcane with the premium option)
Arabic coffee
Professional English Speaking Tour Guide/Driver
Traditional boat ride along Dubai Creek
Bottles of water
Spice Market
Entry fees to the museums
Detailed itinerary
1
Al Seef is a vibrant 1.8km destination steeped in Dubai’s cultural and historical roots. It perfectly blends the charm of old Dubai with modern amenities, making it an ideal spot for Instagram-worthy photos. The area replicates the city’s traditional architecture and offers numerous dining options, all while providing a stunning view of Dubai Creek, a must-see landmark.
2
Stop 2
Stroll along Dubai Creek, the city’s lifeline, which divides Dubai from Deira to the north and Bur Dubai to the south. Enjoy the stunning views of this iconic waterway that captures the essence of the city.
3
Stop 3
Discover the traditional architecture, lifestyle, and hospitality of the region in Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. Walking through its narrow alleys, you'll encounter cultural institutions and galleries, offering a unique glimpse into Dubai’s rich history.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
A fascinating world of optical illusions, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
5
Stop 5
Visit the oldest building in Dubai, dating back to the 1780s, originally built as a fortress. Explore the Dubai Museum housed within, offering insights into the city’s past.
6
Test your bargaining skills at the Old Souk, one of Dubai’s oldest traditional markets. It’s the best place to shop for textiles, shawls, and local snacks.
7
Stop 7
Experience the gentle hum of the traditional wooden abras at Bur Dubai Abra Dock as you prepare to cross Dubai Creek. This crossing marks the start of your adventure into the Deira Spice Souk.
8
Explore the historic markets on the Deira side, including the Spice Souk and the famous Gold Souk, which offer some of the best photo opportunities in the city.
9
Stop 9
Wander through the Spice Souk with your guide, learning about various spices and enjoying a stress-free shopping experience. Take part in a food tasting session and discover the flavors of the local markets.
10
Stop 10
Explore the Gold Souk, a market teeming with stores selling exquisite jewelry, silver, and precious stones. It’s a romantic spot to find a special souvenir, though just browsing is equally enjoyable.
What's not included
Personal Expense
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
3.0
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet your guide at the entrance of the hotel. They will be wearing a badge and will introduce themselves before the tour.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
