Authentic Old Dubai Pathways, Souks, Abra Baot & Local Guide Tour

Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Authentic Old Dubai Pathways, Souks, Abra Baot & Local Guide Tour

Active

(5 reviews)

3h - 4h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the roots of Dubai on a private heritage tour designed for those who want more than the typical sightseeing experience. Avoid the crowds and travel in comfort with a private, air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable guide who brings the city’s rich past to life through captivating stories and local insights.

Explore the charm of Old Dubai before its transformation into a city of skyscrapers. Stroll through the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood and cross the scenic Dubai Creek aboard a traditional Abra boat taxi, just like the locals. Wander through the vibrant souks, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and gold, and enjoy authentic tastings like fresh dates.

This experience takes you inside Blue Mosque for a guided visit, complete with traditional attire for an immersive cultural encounter.

With a flexible itinerary, and personalized attention throughout, this premium private tour offers a deeper, more meaningful connection to Dubai’s heritage—on your terms.

Available options

Private Old Dubai Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Traditional Abra Boat Ride

Entry fees to the heritage sites

Private transport with Pick-up and Drop-off (any preferred location in Dubai)

Blue Mosque Entry and Guided Tour with Traditional Dress

Local Tastings like Arabic tea 'shai' or coffee 'Qhawa' and dates

Visit to Gold, Spice, and Textile Souks for shopping

Exploration of Al Seef Historical District and Al Fahidi Old Town

Private Local Expert

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover Al Seef, where Old Dubai meets New Dubai. And stroll through the past in this historical district, lined with sandstone buildings, windtowers, cultural sikkas, and traditional souks.

Stop 2

Explore Al Fahidi Village, Coffee Museum, Coin Museum, Majlis House, and other historic locations. Here you can capture photographs of the traditional houses built from stone, sandalwood, palm fronds, and palm wood. Discover the narrow alleys, pathways, and public squares that encapsulate the essence of historical gems and learn about their cultural significance with your local guide.

Stop 3

Cross the charming Dubai Creek to Bur Dubai on the Abra water taxi

Stop 4

Next, experience the traditional Abra boat ride. Glide along the waters of Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira and arrive at the gold souk and spice souk.

Stop 5

Wander through the narrow alleyways of the Spice Souk for a sensory overload of exotic aromas and flavors that are a feast for the senses. And discover unique souvenirs and traditional handicrafts like carpets, jewelry, and ceramics at stalls.

Stop 6

Walk through Dubai's largest gold market, featuring over 300 retailers, and learn about the region's rich gold trading history. Check out the incredible 64-kg gold ring, which has a well-deserved spot in the Guinness World Record.

What's not included

Lunch (at own expense)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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

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.