Discover Heart of Dubai's Old Town, Heritage, Abra & Souqs

Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Discover Heart of Dubai's Old Town, Heritage, Abra & Souqs

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(38 reviews)

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About this experience

Start your exciting adventure in the heart of Dubai Old Town al fahidi District and wander from there to first learn about the city's history, culture.Begin the experience of Emirati heritage and history. Afterwards, stop by the remains of the old enclosure wall, Dubai’s Old Wall, a historic attraction that was built around 1800 AD. Walk towards the prestigious Dubai Museum and witness the splendid relics and artifacts that exude the glory of Emirati civilization. Proceed on a walk into the captivating Textile Souk and see the traditional fabrics of myriad colors.Ride on the water taxi (Abra) to cross to the other side of Dubai Creek. Explore the famous Gold Souk, one of the oldest and most fascinating traditional markets in the emirate.The Dubai Gold Souk is one of the largest gold retail markets in the world, and an iconic, must-see site to experience when you are in Dubai.Discover new flavours and recipes as you explore the traditional spice market in old Dubai's .

Available options

Dubai old town tour morning

Walking tour in dubai

Dubai Old Town walking tour

Walking tour

What's included

Bottled water

All Fees and Taxes

dates

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The traditional style of life that was prevalent in Dubai from the mid 19th century till the 1970s is reflected at Al-Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, where buildings with high air towers (Barajeel), built with traditional building materials such as stone, gypsum, teak, sandal wood, fronds and palm wood are aligned side by side, separated by alleys, pathways and public squares, which give the district a natural and beautiful diversity. This district, owing to its strategic location at Dubai Creek (Khor Dubai).A visit to Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the old way of lif

Abra comes from the Arabic verb “Abara” which means to cross. Take a ride on the Dubai Abra, the city’s most traditional mode of transport. For centuries, it has remained one of Dubai’s most frequented modes of transport, making it the symbol of the city ’s history and heritage.

Stop 3

Dubai’s Spice Souk is a colourful, aromatic and sensory experience. Discover new flavours and recipes as you explore the traditional spice market in Dubai's heritage area. Savour the atmosphere of the past as you are introduced to the mounds of aromatic herbs and spices, all spilling from large baskets at every turn.Wander among many different stalls and chat to the vendors who will give you plenty of ideas on how you can use the exotic spices on offer.

Stop 4

Dubai Gold Souk (Arabic: سوق الذهب‎), is a traditional market (or souk) in Dubai, UAE Also known as city of Gold.The Gold Souk is Dubai’s most famous and visited souk (market). A labyrinth of covered walkways is home to hundreds of retailers offering a huge selection of jewellery made from gold, silver, diamonds and other precious metals and stones.

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

27 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our meeting point will be the Local House Resturant (Al Fahidi) .
By Metro
The closest metro to Local House Resturent(Al Fahidi) is Sharaf DG Metro on the Green line. Local House Resturent are a couple of minute’s walk from the metro.
By Taxi
Feed in local house restaurant (Al Fahidi) on your GPS.

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.