Old Dubai Walking Tour: Souks, History & Affordable Shopping
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Travelers love this tour because it combines history with smart shopping. Unlike standard walking tours, your guide takes you to trusted vendors in Old Dubai’s souks, where you’ll find authentic items at the best prices. With insider tips, a creek crossing on a traditional abra, and fascinating heritage stories, it’s a cultural and value-packed experience.
Available options
Old Dubai Walking Tour: Souks, History & Affordable Shopping
Private Tour
Private and Personalized
What's included
Cultural insights & storytelling
Licensed professional tour guide
Guided visit to Textile, Spice & Gold Souks
Abra boat ride across Dubai Creek
Insider tips on bargaining and shopping
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Travelers stroll through narrow lanes lined with traditional wind-tower houses, art galleries, and cultural exhibits. The guide explains how Dubai began as a small trading settlement and how merchants lived here centuries ago.
2
Stop 2
Guests see the oldest existing building in Dubai from outside and learn how it protected the city. The guide shares stories of Dubai’s transformation from fishing village to global hub.
3
Stop 3
Walk along the historic waterway that once bustled with trading dhows from India, Persia, and Africa. Travelers experience the atmosphere of Old Dubai and capture stunning photos.
4
Stop 4
Cross the creek in a wooden abra boat, just as locals have done for centuries. This short ride gives a unique view of both sides of Old Dubai.
5
Guests browse colorful fabrics, pashminas, scarves, and handicrafts. The guide helps identify quality items and gives tips on bargaining to get the best deals.
6
Stop 6
Travelers explore stalls filled with aromatic spices, saffron, teas, dates, and dried fruits. The guide explains traditional uses and shows where to shop for authentic products at fair prices.
7
Stop 7
Walk through glittering shop windows displaying gold jewelry, diamonds, and gemstones. Guests can shop for unique souvenirs, with the guide offering insider tips to avoid overpriced tourist traps.
8
See Dubai’s Grand Mosque exterior and nearby Hindi Lane, where travelers discover small temples and cultural shops—showcasing Dubai’s diversity and coexistence.
What's not included
Hotel pickup & drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Your Guide will meet exactly outside local house restaurant
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
