Private Old Dubai Souks Walking Tour with Abra Ride & Transfers
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the heart of Old Dubai on this private walking tour that blends history, culture and shopping. Begin in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, where your guide reveals the city’s humble roots as you wander through narrow lanes lined with coral‑stone houses and art galleries.
Continue to the Textile Souk to browse colorful fabrics and learn how to bargain. Then ride a traditional Private abra across Dubai Creek, passing dhows loaded with cargo and admiring the contrast between Old Dubai and the modern skyline.
On the Deira side, dive into the Spice Souk’s aromatic stalls—sampling saffron, cardamom and other regional spices—and pick up a few souvenirs with your guide’s help. End at the glittering Gold Souk, home to hundreds of jewelers.
This tour includes an experienced local guide, private abra ride, bottled water, local snacks and flexible departure times; it’s wheelchair‑ and stroller‑friendly, with group discounts available.
Available options
Starting from Meeting Point
Duration: 2 hours
With Hotel Transfers
Duration: 3 hours<br/>Private Vehicle : Pickup & Drop off Included in this option
What's included
An English‑speaking tour guide who leads the walking route and provides cultural context.
Local Snacks
Abra Ride across the Creek
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin in the atmospheric lanes of Al Fahidi, seeing mud‑brick houses and courtyards that date back to the 19th century. Your guide provides historical context and points out the Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort as you walk past.
2
Browse rows of colorful fabrics, pashminas and traditional garments. Learn about local attire and try negotiating for souvenirs under your guide’s expert tips
3
Stop 3
Hop aboard a wooden abra for a short cruise across Dubai Creek. Take in views of the modern skyline and the bustling waterfront while learning how the creek served as Dubai’s lifeline
4
Stop 4
Immerse yourself in the fragrant Spice Souk. Your guide introduces you to aromatic spices, dried fruits and perfumes and helps you navigate friendly vendors offering saffron, oud and other local specialties
5
Stop 5
Finish at the glittering Gold Souk, where hundreds of shops display intricate jewelry and gold bars. Hear stories about Dubai’s jewelry trade, ask about current gold prices and collect final bargains before the tour concludes
What's not included
pick-up and drop-off (unless option selected)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
5.0
37 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Instant confirmation at the time of booking
Multiple start times available throughout the day
Option to meet at the designated meeting point or choose hotel pickup and drop-off
Private walking tour through Old Dubai with a dedicated local guide
Meeting point
The Guide will meet you at the entrance of Local House Restaurant <- This Restaurant is in Bastakiya Al Fahidi Neighbourhood.
The nearest metro station is Sharaf DG Metro Station (Formerly Al Fahidi).
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
