Old Dubai Walking Tour: Abra ride, Creek, Spice & Gold Souks.

Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Old Dubai Walking Tour: Abra ride, Creek, Spice & Gold Souks.

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(33 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Let's explore the Old Dubai, Al Fahidi Fort (Dubai Museum) and the famous textile, spice & gold souks (markets). Roam the narrow alleys and take a traditional wooden boat called 'abra' to cross the creek Along the way, Youll understand Dubai from the perspective of its history, people, food, culture, and etiquette. This tour is a tremendous introduction to Dubai's story from a desert-to-a-global destination city.

Dubai souks are famous the world over. In particular, don’t miss the Dubai Gold Souk and the ancient Covered Souk, spice souk and The Textile Souk They’re all housed within the vibrant Bur Dubai and Deira area of Dubai. The souks are less labyrinthine than formerly, but these historic markets still offer hospitable trading and good-matured bartering..

Available options

Private & Personalised

Only You & Your Group.: Let's explore the Old Dubai, Al Fahidi Fort (Dubai Museum) and the famous textile, spice & gold souks (markets).

Small Group Tour

Water Bottle<br/>Old Dubai<br/>Licensed History Guide & Boat

What's included

Bottled water

Guide

Abra Ride across Dubai Creek.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

The oldest building in Dubai since 1780s standing tall as it was built as a fortress. The center of politics in Old days.

A treasure trove of rainbow hued colors, textures, weaves and embroidery from around the world.
One of the oldest traditional markets in Dubai; best spot to buy textile Products, shawls and Souvenirs (MAKE SURE YOU BARGAIN)

Stop 3

Dubai Creek, the lifeline and pulse of the city, which separates the city from Deira to bur Dubai, its here you'll take a traditional wooden boat known as (abra) to cross the creek to start a new experience at Spice & Gold Souq. enjoy the breathtaking views of the creek on the way.

Stop 4

As soon as we will reach at Spice souq, the aroma in the air will blew your mind, please note this is the oldest market of Dubai.
Get to know all the different spices and enjoy shopping with the best rates, don't forget to Bargain.

Stop 5

One of the largest Gold Market in the World, With its enormous collection of shops, its remarkable variety of goods and its exceptionally reasonable prices, the Dubai Gold Market is the ultimate destination for jewelry lovers.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

28 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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

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.