Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Dubai Best Old and Modern City Tour

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Dip into old and modern Dubai on an excursion which serves up some landmarks and discoveries missed by standard itineraries, and saves you the time of planning your own tour. Explore the 21-domed Blue Mosque—modeled on Istanbul's famous namesake—view the Palm and Burj Al Arab, ride an 'abra' water taxi to the Gold and Spice souks, and experience Dubai's traditional culture at a heritage house museum and restaurant. Hotel, airport and port pickups and drop-offs make everything extra-easy.

Available options

Dubai Best Old and Modern City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

burj al arab photo stop

Burj Al Arab Photo Stop from Jumeirah Beach

Gold & Spice Souk visit and Blue Mosque visit

Al Khayma Heritage House visit and Creek Abra Water Taxi Ride

Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle & cold mineral water

jumeirah beach

Al Fahidi Historical District Guided Tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

It's time to capture some images with the world's luxurious Hotel Burj Al Arab in the backdrop from Jumeirah Beach

Stop 2

The Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque And Centre
Stop: 45 minutes
4.5
(44)

The Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque And Centre
Later we shall tour the Blue Mosque, known for its fascinating architectural brilliance built by taking inspiration from the Turkish Blue Mosque in Istanbul and its capacity to accommodate 2000 worshippers at the same time. Walking around, observe the beautiful walls and exteriors decorated with blue tiles.

Stop 3

Continuing to the Creek, we shall take an Abra ride for exploring the Gold and Spice Souks, where we have the opportunity to shop to your heart’s content admiring the different aromatic spices and jewelry.

Stop 4

Experience an Abra Boat Ride on the Dubai Creek.

Stop 5

If you have just 1 hour at Dubai Mall, here’s a quick itinerary to catch the highlights:

Dubai Aquarium (10 min) – See the massive tank with sharks and rays.

Human Waterfall (5 min) – Snap a photo at this iconic indoor feature.

Dubai Dino (5 min) – Check out a real dinosaur fossil.

Dubai Ice Rink or VR Park (10 min) – Watch or skate briefly / peek at the VR fun.

Dubai Fountain (10 min) – Catch the musical water show outside.

A fast, fun glimpse of Dubai Mall’s best in 60 minutes!

Stop 6

Jumeirah Public Beach (Sunset Beach) is one of Dubai’s most popular free-access beaches, known for its soft white sand, clear blue waters, and stunning views of the Burj Al Arab. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, jogging, and relaxing. The beach has good facilities, including showers, changing rooms, and lifeguards, plus a running track and cycling path. It’s especially beautiful at sunset and great for families, fitness lovers, and casual beachgoers.

Stop 7

Souq Al Seef is a charming waterfront district along Dubai Creek that blends traditional Emirati architecture with modern shops, cafés, and restaurants. Stroll through heritage-style alleys, ride an abra boat, shop for souvenirs, or relax at creekside eateries. It’s a perfect spot for culture, photos, and a peaceful break from the city’s buzz.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options 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.