Dubai Souks, Food & Culture Walking Tour

Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Dubai Souks, Food & Culture Walking Tour

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(133 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Dive into the heart of Old Dubai on a captivating 3.5-hour journey that showcases the city's soul beyond the usual tourist paths.

Begin with a nostalgic treat hidden in the souk's alleys, igniting your adventure. Engage in our own exhilarating spice game, SPINGO, where you'll explore and learn, crowned by an icy delight to refresh your senses.

Experience the charm of Dubai Creek on a traditional abra, leading you to the vibrant textile souk of Bur Dubai where we will wind down the evening by savoring a beloved Indian street snack.

Join us to experience Old Dubai's must-dos, from spice souks to authentic snacks, in a way that feels like exploring with friends.

Note: One eating stop is skipped from May - September.

Available options

Regular Tour

What's included

Professional guide

Bottled water

Abra ride across the creek

Use of audio receiver and free earphones to hear the tour guide clearly.

4 snack stops

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Fuel up with an Old Dubai nostalgic treat washed down with sweet milky tea in the back alleys of the souk.

Stop 2

Play our proprietary spice game, "SPINGO" in the souk! Cool down after with an icy Iranian treat doused with rosewater, fruit cordial and lemon juice.

(SPINGO is replaced with another activity during Ramadan)

Stop 3

Bite into piping hot stuffed bread with one of our favourite fillings on the planet, all from a closet-sized corner bakery.
**During the hotter months: This stop may not be featured if heat levels are excessive during the summer. As a replacement, we would order a special local bread at our final dinner stop.

Stop 4

Sample a traditional, refreshing Iranian dessert doused in rose syrup and lemon juice.

Cross the creek from Deira to Bur Dubai in a traditional wooden boat.

Take a quick walk through the vibrant textile souk and enjoy freshly fried Indian snacks.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Substitutions in case of allergies/restrictions

Lunch/Dinner

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

130 reviews

5★

127

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 8 years

Please advise us at least 48 hours in advance of the tour in case of serious food allergies, including gluten, nuts and dairy

A moderate amount of walking is involved, approximately 3.4km

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Tour may be cancelled if there are less than 3 participants and rescheduling options or full refund provided.

All food is ordered in advance and we may be unable to provide substitutions in case of allergies/restrictions.

Please do message us after booking if you have any dietary restrictions/allergies.

Meeting point

We meet by the big treasure chest, steps ahead of the Old Baladiya archway. Guide in "Keep Calm - I'm Your Food Tour Guide" t-shirt. Starts promptly on time! If late, WhatsApp number provided for location. Guide may not answer calls during tour. Latecomers take the responsibility to join group.

Important notes

(1) Should we need to cancel the tour for any reason, we will message you through Viator. Please ensure you check your messages before leaving for the tour!

(2) All food is ordered in advance and we may be unable to provide substitutions in case of allergies/restrictions.

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.