Flavors of Arabia – Old Dubai & Souks & Authentic Emirati Cuisine

Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Flavors of Arabia – Old Dubai & Souks & Authentic Emirati Cuisine

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(23 reviews)

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About this experience

Join us for an unforgettable experience of food, history, and culture as we explore the vibrant heart of Old Dubai, featuring Dubai’s historic journey from desert to destination, pearl diving past and heritage homes, private abra boat ride and all three souks (textile, spice and gold). This exclusive tour offers a unique opportunity to savor the authentic flavors of Emirati cuisine while immersing yourself in the city's rich heritage.

Highlights include:

A Spice Souk Odyssey: Wander through the aromatic maze of the Spice Souk, where you'll encounter a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and flavors.

Abra Ride Across Dubai Creek: Enjoy a private scenic boat ride across the historic Dubai Creek

Textile Souk Exploration: Discover the intricate artistry of traditional textiles in the Textile Souk.

Emirati Feast: Indulge in a delicious Emirati dinner, featuring the iconic Machboos
Bastakiya Heritage: Explore the historic Bastakiya neighborhood, a charming oasis of wind-tower houses

Available options

Flavors of Arabia – Old Dubai & Souks & Authentic Emirati Cuisine

What's included

A foray into Dubai's rich spice trade scene

Sit down Emirati dinner at an award-winning restaurant that will change your life

A taste of Dubai's iconic food scene at one of the city's most popular historic neighborhoods

A comforting tea tasting at an understated, locally beloved, award winning spice shop

Engaging overview of the lesser known facts about Dubai's history

Take home the legendary Camel Milk Ice Cream in your hand and Arabic gum in your pocket!

Try the iconic chips of the Gulf, a favorite local staple

A hidden gem of a cafe for appetizers

Refreshingly authentic frozen treat at a hidden spot, aka, Persian frozen dessert called Falooda

Detailed itinerary

Let us arrive at our first course by a traditional wooden boat just as the sun is setting on the Dubai Creek

Stop 2

We walk through the famous spice souk to understand the anatomy of spices from India and Iran that have influenced Emirati cuisine.

Stop 3

Abra Ride Across Dubai Creek: Enjoy a private scenic boat ride across the historic Dubai Creek, offering breathtaking views of the city's skyline.

Textile Souk Exploration: Discover the intricate artistry of traditional textiles in the bustling Textile Souk.

Stop 5

Emirati Feast: Indulge in a delicious Emirati dinner, featuring the iconic Machboos and other regional specialties!
Sit down Emirati dinner at an award-winning restaurant that will change your life, nestled inside a heritage house.

What's not included

Pick up/ Drop off

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

23 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meet outside the Spice Souk Entrance in Deira

Meeting point

The guide will be in orange.
The guide will meet you outside the Entrance of the Spice Soul at the Baladiya Gate

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.