Old Dubai Small Group Tour with local snacks & Arabic coffee

Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Old Dubai Small Group Tour with local snacks & Arabic coffee

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About this experience

This jam-packed tour will introduce you to Dubai's diverse culture, customs and tastes. In your group, your local guide will lead you through colorful souks, traditional transport and the old Dubai.

Start the tour with full immersion into a Gold and Spice souk with its dazzling collection of jewellery and bespoke Arabic pieces. You’ll be mesmerized by the aromas wafting from colorful sacks of exotic spices, herbs and dried fruits. Before crossing the creek on an Abra – a traditional water taxi – let notes of cinnamon play on your tongue as you sip the rich, creamy Karak tea.

You'll then walk from Al Seef to the historical neighborhood of Al Fahidi. Learn about Emirati culture from your guide as you wander through labyrinth alleyways, admire old wind towers, the outside of Dubai’s oldest building, Fahidi Fort and visit the Arabic Calligraphy House.

The tour ends with a tasting of Gahwa – UNESCO cultural heritage – a symbol of hospitality that will welcome you to the city.

Available options

Old Dubai Small Group Tour with local snacks & Arabic coffee

What's included

Abra boat ride

3-hour walking tour in English, German, Spanish, Italian

Local snacks (Karak tea & Arabic coffee with dates)

Friendly local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Get to grips with the diverse culture of the city by exploring the Dubai Creek area.
Taste traditional coffee and tea and admire the colors of exotic spices at the souk. Try local Arabic coffee and hop on a traditional boat to cross the Creek

Learn about Emirati culture from your local guide as you wander through labyrinth alleyways, admire old wind towers and visit the Arabic Calligraphy House.Stop for photo opportunities outside Dubai’s oldest building, Fahidi Fort. The tour comes to an end with a tasting of Gahwa – with UNESCO cultural heritage status.

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note that the small group has a maximum of 16 people: the small-group size gives you a personalized experience away from the crowds

Meeting point

Please meet the guide at Al Ras Metro Station holding a Travco sign.

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.