Private Old Dubai Walking Tour: Forts, Souks, and Boats
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Journey with us on this private two-hour walking tour to explore the city as you have never seen it. We will guide you through the middle east markets, traditional houses, and historic by lanes of the old city. You will go back in time to see what life was like on the sleepy banks of a pearling and fishing village. The tour includes a visit to a Fort, a boat ride across the creek, and visits to the famous textile, spice and gold souks (markets).
Along the way, you will hear the story of the men and women who transformed this regional trading outpost into the global juggernaut that it is today. Elements of Emirati culture will be seen up-close as we explained the nuanced ways that the traditions still thrive.
Far away from the glass skyscrapers of modern Dubai, this tour will introduce you to the real, and fascinating, heart and soul of the town. You simply cannot miss this side of Dubai!
Available options
Private Old Dubai Walking Tour: Forts, Souks, and Boats
What's included
Local Resident Certified Professional Guides (Some of who are award winning)
Private Abra (Wooden Boat) Ride Across Dubai Creek
An Authentic Way to Experience the Middle East
Coffee and/or Tea
Most in-depth personalized interactions
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Featuring heritages homes transformed into cafes, museums, art galleries and hotels - a close look at Dubai's first settlement
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Dubai Museum is currently closed for renovation. We will understand the museum, the wall of Old Dubai and the Al Fahidi Fort from the outside.
3
A hidden gem in Old Dubai - a tucked in temple lane
4
Discover fabrics and swatches initially forming the core of the trade in the middle east - there is always time for shopping! Cashmere, anyone!
5
Stop 5
This boat ride is the most fun way to arrive at the Spice and the Gold Souq on our tours
6
Stop 6
Go Big or Go Home is the motto of our expansive Gold Souq in Dubai
7
Stop 7
Here is where we learn about the kinds of spices, saffron and vanilla, be wowed by the range of teas and taste some dates and camel milk chocolates!
What's not included
Gratuity
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
17 reviews
5★
16
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
103 reviews
5★
101
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet outside Restaurant- Arabian Tea House
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
