Explore the Backstreets of Old Dubai With an Insider

Exploring the historic charm of Dubai’s oldest neighborhoods is a captivating experience that transports visitors back in time. This insider-led tour invites travelers to wander through the vibrant souks of Deira, where the air is rich with the scents of exotic spices and the glitter of gold. Crossing the iconic Dubai Creek by traditional wooden abra boat provides a unique perspective on the city’s past. The journey culminates in the enchanting Al Bastakiya district, where the captivating architecture and timeless essence of Old Dubai captivate the senses. With an insider’s guidance, this immersive exploration promises to unveil the hidden gems that lie beyond Dubai’s modern facade.

Key Points

• Discover the historic residential and souk quarters of Dubai on a guided tour that immerses you in the city’s captivating past.
• Wander through the bustling Deira souks, including the spice, gold, and textile markets, and engage in the lively haggling culture.
• Cross the iconic Dubai Creek on a traditional wooden ‘abra’ boat to gain a unique perspective on the city’s historical significance.
• Indulge in a local lunch featuring classic Emirati dishes, providing insight into Dubai’s rich culinary heritage.
• Explore the charming Al Bastakiya neighborhood, admiring the sand-colored, wind-towered houses and immersing in the authentic charm of Old Dubai.

Overview of the Tour

Exploring Dubai’s older side, beyond the futuristic architecture and glitz, this half-day walking tour takes visitors through the city’s historic residential and souk quarters.

The tour begins at Al Ghubaiba Metro Station and winds through Deira’s bustling spice, souvenir, and gold souks.

Travelers then board a traditional wooden ‘abra’ boat to cross the iconic Dubai Creek, admiring the high-rises on the opposite bank.

The tour culminates in the charming Al Bastakiya neighborhood, where visitors can wander through the narrow lanes lined with sand-colored houses and iconic wind towers.

With a small group size of 12 or fewer, this tour offers an intimate glimpse into Dubai’s captivating past.

Key Inclusions and Details

The tour includes browsing through Deira’s bustling spice, souvenir, and gold souks, as well as taking a ride on a traditional wooden ‘abra’ boat across the iconic Dubai Creek. Visitors can also enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant, with all admission fees covered by the tour price.

Tour Inclusions	What to Expect	Added Benefits
Deira Souks	Explore the lively spice, souvenir, and gold markets	Immerse in the vibrant local atmosphere
Dubai Creek Boat Ride	Experience the city from the water on a traditional ‘abra’	Admire the stunning views of Deira’s skyline
Local Lunch	Savor the flavors of Dubai’s cuisine at a renowned restaurant	Discover the culinary delights of the region

The tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the historical and cultural essence of Dubai, beyond the glitzy facade.

Deira’s Lively Souks

Amid the bustling heart of Old Dubai, visitors are immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of Deira’s iconic souks, where the air is alive with the tantalizing aromas of exotic spices and the rhythmic hum of local commerce.

The city’s legendary gold souk dazzles with its glittering displays, while the spice souk entices the senses with its vibrant array of fragrant herbs, aromatic teas, and colorful spices.

Winding through the narrow lanes, shoppers can browse the stalls of the textile souk, haggling for handcrafted fabrics and traditional Emirati clothing.

The souk experience is a feast for the senses, offering a glimpse into Dubai’s rich heritage and the enduring traditions of its merchants.

Crossing Dubai Creek

After seeing the vibrant energy of Deira’s souks, visitors cross Dubai Creek aboard a traditional wooden ‘abra’ boat, gliding over the waterway that has long served as the lifeblood of this ancient trading port. The 10-minute journey provides a unique perspective on the city’s historical significance, with the iconic high-rises of Deira lining the shore. As the boat gently rocks across the creek, passengers can’t help but feel a sense of timelessness, transported to an era when these waters were bustling with dhows and traders.

Abra Boat Ride
Duration	10 minutes
Cost	1 AED
Frequency	Every 5-10 minutes
Departs From	Al Seef

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Upon completing the journey across Dubai Creek, visitors indulge in a local lunch, savoring the flavors that have long defined the culinary traditions of this historic city.

The tour includes a meal at a nearby restaurant, allowing participants to enjoy the authentic tastes of Old Dubai. The menu features classic Emirati dishes, like biryani, kebabs, and shawarma, prepared with time-honored techniques and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

As they dine, guests gain insight into the cultural significance of these time-honored recipes and the role they play in Emirati identity. This lunch not only satisfies the palate but also provides a deeper understanding of Dubai’s rich heritage and the enduring legacy of its cuisine.

Exploring Al Bastakiya

Following the lunch at a local restaurant, the tour continues its exploration of Dubai’s historic quarters, setting its sights on the captivating neighborhood of Al Bastakiya.

This well-preserved enclave showcases the city’s traditional architecture, with its winding lanes and distinctive wind-towered houses offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.

As the group wanders through the narrow alleys, they’ll be transported back in time, admiring the sand-colored structures and learning about the ingenious wind tower design that kept residents cool before the advent of air conditioning.

The tour provides an opportunity to take in the authentic charm of Old Dubai, away from the glitz and glamour of the modern city skyline.

Meeting Point and End Point

The immersive tour of Old Dubai’s backstreets begins at Al Ghubaiba Metro Station, which provides a convenient starting location for participants.

From there, the small group of 12 or fewer people will set out on their half-day walking exploration of Dubai’s older, less-glitzy side.

The tour then concludes in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, allowing visitors to further enjoy this well-preserved enclave of Dubai’s cultural heritage.

With a choice of morning or afternoon departure, the tour covers the bustling Deira souks, a wooden ‘abra’ boat ride across Dubai Creek, and a stroll through the narrow lanes of the Al Bastakiya district.

Additional Tour Information

Participants receive confirmation of their booking unless they reserve the tour within one day of the travel date. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. A minimum of two people is required for the tour to proceed, and participants should expect a moderate level of physical activity.

The tour’s additional information can be summarized in the table below:

Confirmation	Accessibility	Group Size	Activity Level	Minimum Participants
Unless within 1 day of travel	Not wheelchair accessible	Small group (12 or fewer)	Moderate	2

This tour offers an immersive exploration of Dubai’s historic quarters, providing participants with a unique opportunity to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage beyond the modern skyline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Modify the Tour Duration or Content?

The tour duration and content can be modified to some extent, but it may depend on the tour provider’s policies and the availability of alternative options. Customers should inquire about customization possibilities when booking the tour.

Do You Offer Any Discounts or Package Deals?

The tour company does offer occasional discounts and package deals. Customers should check the website or contact the company directly to inquire about any current promotions or discounted tour options that may be available.

Is There a Dress Code I Should Follow?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should dress modestly. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the tour involves exploring narrow lanes and alleys. Light, breathable clothing is ideal given Dubai’s warm climate.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The activity level is moderate, so the tour may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I Make Changes to the Booking After Confirmation?

Yes, changes to the booking may be possible after confirmation, but this is subject to availability and may incur additional fees. It’s best to contact the tour operator as soon as possible to inquire about any modifications.

Recap

Exploring the backstreets of Old Dubai with an insider offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s historic charm.

Wander through vibrant souks, cross the iconic Dubai Creek, and learn about the authentic allure of Al Bastakiya.

This tour provides a unique perspective on Dubai’s past, allowing you to embrace the timeless essence of the city’s oldest neighborhoods.