Old Dubai Walking Tour: A Taste of Tradition, Abra & Souk Secrets

Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Old Dubai Walking Tour: A Taste of Tradition, Abra & Souk Secrets

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About this experience

Discover Old Dubai: Walk Into the Past (2.5 Hours)
Uncover the soul of Dubai on this immersive 2.5-hour walking tour through its oldest neighborhoods. Start at scenic Al Seef, where traditional architecture meets modern charm along the Creek. Stroll through the historic Al Fahidi District (Al Bastakiya), pass by the iconic Dubai Museum, and dive into the vibrant Bur Dubai Grand Souk.
Enjoy a traditional Abra boat ride across Dubai Creek, just like traders did centuries ago, and finish your journey exploring the fragrant Spice Souk and glittering Gold Souk. A perfect mix of history, culture, and local life—ideal for travelers who want to truly experience the heart of Old Dubai.

Available options

Old Dubai Walking Tour: A Taste of Tradition, Abra & Souk Secrets

What's included

Private Abra (Wooden Boat) Ride Across Dubai Creek

Entry/Admission - Dubai Spice Souk & Gold Souk

Entry/Admission - Souk Al Seef by Dubai Retail

Local Resident Certified Professional Guide

Entry/Admission - Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Detailed itinerary

The meeting point is in Al Bastkiya in front of Majlis Al Fahidi near Tourist Bus Parking Al Bastakiya.

Stop 2

We’ll begin your tour at Al Seef, where the historic wind towers, stone pathways, and traditional architecture bring the soul of old Dubai to life. (40 minutes)

Stop 3

Al Bastakiya offers a step back in time, with its winding alleys, traditional wind towers, and preserved coral-stone buildings that reveal the rich heritage of old Dubai

Stop 4 Pass by

Pass by through the historic Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s transformation, with interactive exhibits and artifacts that bring Dubai’s vibrant past to life.

Walk through the Hindi Lane, This market isn’t just a place to shop — it’s an experience.

Step into the Bur Dubai Grand Souk, a sensory voyage filled with the exotic fragrance of spices, the gleam of precious metals, and the richness of colorful fabrics.

Stop 7

Hop on a traditional Abra (water boat) from Bur Dubai Station to Deira Dubai and sail across Dubai Creek, experiencing the city from the water as traders and locals have done for centuries.

Stop 8

Now we are going to explore Spice Souk, Indulge in an array of exquisite tastings, including refreshing teas, luscious dates from distant lands, and unique choco-dates. Find exquisite souvenirs and Arabic perfumes to cherish as mementos of your journey.

Stop 9

Now we will move the gold souk open-air traditional Arabic market Gold Souk, where ancient trade meets modern splendor in glittering displays of gold.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN UR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 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

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

The meeting point is in Al Bastkiya in front of Majlis Al Fahidi near Tourist Bus Parking Bastakiya.

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.