Private Historic Old Dubai and Souks Walking Tour featuring Hidden Gems

Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Private Historic Old Dubai and Souks Walking Tour featuring Hidden Gems

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(27 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Uncover the little-known treasures of Dubai on this 2-hour walking tour of Old Dubai and its various souks (markets). You will with a local guide through traditional architecture, museums, street art, and ancient forts. Your walk through the perfume, spice, and gold souks will stimulate your senses and the breathtaking views from the abra (traditional boat) ride will take you back in time. This tour is private with an award-winning guide!
Luxury SUV Car transfers can be added-on to this tour.

Available options

Private Historic Old Dubai and Souks Walking Tour featuring Hidden Gems

What's included

Professional guide

Tastings of traditional Emirati tea or coffee

Traditional boat ride

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We start by weaving in and out of the heritage homes inside the original residential district of Dubai built by Iranian traders

One such house is restored and houses the art collection of the Alserkal Culture Foundation - a real hidden gem of Old Dubai

Lets understand how closely linked coffee is to the Emirati spirit of hospitality

Stop 4

The site of the original Al Fahidi Fort guarding our pearl diving history (currently closed for construction)

Souk, Al Kabeer or Meena Bazaar

Stop 6 Pass by

Boat ride in a traditional wooden boat across the Creek

Stop 7

Lets have a close encounter with Saffron and Vanilla Bean - the original kings of spices

Stop 8

In true Dubai style, go big or go home with all that glitters in this souq

Stop 9

Magical boat ride across Dubai Creek on a traditional abra

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

19 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

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children under the age of 6 are free. Children 6 and above who can walk for the duration of the tour have a reduced price ticket. We are a very child friendly tour.

Dress comfortably with walking shoes

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

Please meet your guide dressed in orange outside the Arabian Tea House Restaurant in Bur Dubai

Important notes

• Dress comfortably with walking shoes
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children under the age of 6 are free. Children 6 and above who can walk for the duration of the tour have a reduced price ticket. We are a very child friendly tour.

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.