Dubai Old City Tour Abra Boat Ride Gold Spice Markets Al Seef

Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Dubai Old City Tour Abra Boat Ride Gold Spice Markets Al Seef

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(1 reviews)

8h - 10h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the vibrant heritage of Dubai on this engaging city tour. Visit the historic Al Seef Heritage area and take a traditional Abra taxi boat ride along Dubai Creek. Discover the rich flavors and scents at the Spice Souk and shop for exquisite jewelry at the Gold Souk. With a knowledgeable local guide, you'll delve into Dubai's fascinating history at the Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort. This tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours and includes various entry fees, traditional refreshments, and insights into the local culture. Perfect for travelers seeking a blend of history, shopping, and unique experiences in Dubai.

- Visit iconic sites like Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort
- Enjoy a traditional Abra boat ride across Dubai Creek
- Explore the bustling Gold and Spice Souks
- Experience local flavors with refreshing drinks included

Available options

Dubai Old City Tour Abra Boat Ride Gold Spice Markets Al Seef

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Abra ride (traditional boat ride along Dubai Creek)

Driver / Guide

Pickup and drop-off

Photo stop at Al Seef Mosque

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Walk along the Al Seef promenade and enjoy the charming view of the small mosque. Wander through the narrow streets of the Al Fahidi district, where you can appreciate the beautiful old buildings next to modern ones.

Experience the authentic charm of Old Dubai with a traditional Abra ride across the historic Dubai Creek. The Abra, a wooden water taxi, has been the city’s oldest and most beloved mode of transport, connecting Deira and Bur Dubai for generations.

Go past the Grand Souk and take a ride on a traditional abra water taxi to explore Dubai Creek. Enjoy the wide views of large trading ships and the tall skyscrapers of Dubai’s skyline as you sail along.

Stop 4

When you reach the Spice Souk, enjoy the rich smells and bright colors of the various spices and ingredients. You can also try bargaining with the local sellers.

Stop 5

Lastly, visit the Gold Souk and admire the beautiful jewelry, silver, and precious stones. Say goodbye to your guide and leave Dubai with a deeper appreciation of its traditional culture and history, beyond the luxury and sparkle.

We begin our walking tour by meeting our tour guide at Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant located in Al Fahidi Historic District. Feel welcomed with Arabic coffee and tea with dates, where later you will also taste Arabian dishes like luqaimat and Ragag.

What's not included

Lunch

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 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

Specialized infant seats are available

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.