Private Old Dubai Tour with Local Guide: Souks, Spice & Stories

Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Private Old Dubai Tour with Local Guide: Souks, Spice & Stories

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(17 reviews)

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About this experience

Dubai’s historic beginnings tell a story like no other and this tour dives right into it. We’ll trace the city’s transformation from humble trading port to cultural crossroads, starting at a museum that unpacks its journey from desert to global destination. From there, we’ll explore the scent-swirled Spice Souk, gold-lined markets, and the iconic Dubai Creek via a breezy abra ride. The charming Al Fahidi neighborhood comes next, with its towering wind towers and timeless tales. We’ll sip Arabic coffee, swap stories, and close the experience with a local Emirati meal that captures the essence of Dubai’s soul: warm, diverse, and unforgettable.

Available options

2025-2026

What's included

Meal as per itinerary and bottled water in restaurant

Admission fees

Detailed itinerary

We begin our tour at the Al Shindagha Museum district, our launch pad into old Dubai. Here, we thread together curated galleries and tactile displays to show how Dubai grew from creekside settlements into a trading crossroads. We’ll trace pearl-diving tales and dhow routes that linked Dubai to Persia, India, and East Africa. Objects become characters, maps turn into stories, and the Creek moves from backdrop to main character.

Stop 2

The wooden abra boats plying the busy Dubai Creek are one of Dubai's most iconic scenes to witness. Guests will enjoy an unforgettable experience on a private abra ride and capture the city from the water as we time-travel from its past to its present.

Stop 3

Dubai's Spice Souk is an incredibly aromatic network of shops and eateries that sell everything from saffron to chocolate dipped dates. To navigate the bustling souk, the best way is to learn about the origins of the spices at first from your guide and shop-owners before you cruise your way around the market.

Stop 4

We'll walk through Dubai's oldest market, the Gold Souk, a place buzzing with eager shoppers there to explore its 300+ shops and covered walkways. We'll stop to learn about the world's obsession with this shiny yellow metal, especially during festive occasions.

The Textile Souk is a labyrinth of traditional Arabian souvenir stores with plenty of fabrics, scarves, and I heart Dubai t-shirts. Here, your guide will introduce you to the national dress worn by both men and women, and demonstrate how each garment is worn.

We'll wander through one of Dubai's historic neighborhoods where its merchants once lived in now-restored homes. Your guide will explain the brilliance behind the architecture of these structures, particularly its windtowers, designed to keep inhabitants cool.

Stop 7

Our last stop will be a fantastic meal at a traditional Emirati restaurant where we'll break bread together. The guide will pre-order several dishes so that guests can experience the various flavors and spices used to marinate, and answer all your curious questions.

What's not included

Gratuities

Private transportation

Soda/Pop

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking, as our meal is pre-ordered, is non-vegetarian, and is served on a sharing platter basis. A vegetarian option is available on request.

It is recommended that you bring bottled water, sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen.

It is recommended that you wear light fabric clothing (especially during summer) and comfortable shoes

This tour includes moderate physical activity. Guests should be in good health, able to walk slightly longer distances at a comfortable pace, and able to participate in periods of standing.

Meeting point

The meeting point is outside the Al Shindagha Museum Visitor Center (drop-off point link shared). This is located right by the Al Ghubaiba Metro Station Exit/Entrance No. 4 on the Green Line.

Important notes

• Not recommended for pregnant women
• It is recommended that you bring water and sunglasses
• It is recommended that you wear light clothing and comfortable shoes

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.