tour town dubai

Dubai old town: TOP 10 Best Things to do + Tips

The 10 best things to do in old dubai – all best places to visit.

You want to visit Dubai Old Town during your stay in Dubai? You’re looking for the best things to do in Old Dubai?

You’re at the right place!

Consisting of several districts located on both side of the Dubai Creek, this vibrant neighborhood is home to a variety of souks and traditional markets , where you can shop for everything from spices and textiles to gold and electronics.

In order to help you plan your visit , I have prepared for you this guide of the 10 best places to visit in Dubai Old Town , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you all my best tips as well as my selection of the best accommodations in Dubai depending on your budget.

So, what to do in Old Dubai? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Deira District

2. dubai gold souk, 3. the spice souk, 4. the perfume souk, 5. take a ride on an abra, 6. dubai creek, 7. bur dubai, 8. al fahidi historical district / al bastakiya quarter, 9. dubai museum, 10. visit the sheikh mohammed centre for cultural understanding, 11. bonus: eat like a local in dubai old town, the best itinerary to visit dubai old town, where to stay in dubai to visit old dubai, you’re traveling to dubai these articles will help you .

Advice: When visiting Dubai Old Town, make sure to dress modestly and respect local customs.

You should also bring cash , as many of the shops in the souks and small restaurants don’t accept credit cards.

You should start your visit of Dubai Old Town in Deira District , especially famous for its souks.

The souks are the best way to explore Deira and get a feel for the culture and atmosphere of the area! There are many souks in Deira, such as:

• The Gold Souk, where you will find rows of shops selling glittering gold jewelry
• The Spice Souk, where you will be transported to a world of exotic scents and flavors. The stalls are selling a wide variety of spices, herbs, and teas, as well as other ingredients used in Middle Eastern cuisine.
• The Perfume Souk, home to dozens of shops selling a wide range of perfumes, oils and incense.

When visiting Deira district, you should also take the time to explore some of the other stores in the area. The neighborhood is home to many traditional shops selling spices, perfumes and traditional clothing , as well as antique stores and art galleries.

You can also find restaurants, cafes and shisha bars where you can take a break from shopping and enjoy some traditional Middle Eastern cuisine.

To get to Deira , take the metro and stop at Al Ras Metro Station.

To visit the Old Dubai and Deira , the best is clearly to book a guided tour!

During this 3-hour tour , your guide will show you the souks as well as Dubai Museum , which I mention a bit further down this article.

The guide is really amazing, he will teach you everything about the culture, religion, daily life and history of Dubai.

You simply need to click on the button below to book your tour of ancient Dubai :

Deira Gold Souk is an absolute must-visit for any traveler to the city.

Located in the heart of the Old Dubai , this bustling souk is home to over 300 shops and is renowned for its vast selection of jewelry and precious stones.

For those looking to buy gold, the Deira Gold Souk is the perfect place. You can find everything from necklaces and earrings to watches and bangles.

Gold prices are based on the current market rate , but you can often get a good deal if you’re willing to haggle.

You can also find a wide range of other precious stones such as diamonds, rubies and sapphires.

Most traders are very friendly, so really don’t be afraid to ask questions and barter for the best price!

Deira Gold Souk is a great place to pick up souvenirs for friends and family back home. From traditional Emirati jewelry to modern pieces with a Middle Eastern twist, you’ll find something for everyone.

While you’re in Deira, you should definitely visit to the Spice Souk .

This vibrant and colorful market is full of exotic spices, incense and herbs . You can find everything from cardamom and turmeric to frankincense and saffron.

It’s an incredible sensory experience, with merchants calling out to you and the aroma of spices in the air.

Just like in the gold souk, you can bargain with the merchants and get a great deal on your spices and herbs.

Be sure to bring some home with you, as they make great souvenirs for family, friends or yourself!

To discover new smells, let’s now head to the Perfume souk!

Traditional Emirati perfume are made from Oud (a fragrent oil derived from resin), but many other ingredients are used to make the various perfumes: musk, amber, saffron, rose, Jasmin… You will for sure find something that suits your taste.

For high quality traditional Arabic perfumes , you should go to Ajmal Store or Swiss Arabian, 2 of the most famous stores.

And if you’re looking for something more unique, you can also create your own personalized perfume at Khadlaj Perfumes , another renowned store.

While you’re in Deira, you should take a ride on an abra, the traditional water taxi that is commonly used by locals to cross the Dubai Creek.

Riding an abra is an inexpensive and fun way to experience the creek from the water!

It’s also the best way to cross from Deira to Bur Dubai, another district of Dubai Old Town.

You can hop on an abra at any of the stations along Dubai creek and take a short ride to the other side. You will discover the city from a different perspective and be able to interact with the locals.

The ride will just cost you a few dirhams and is a great experience!

Dubai Creek is a historical waterway that runs through the city of Dubai.

The creek is a popular destination for travelers who want to experience the traditional side of Dubai, as it’s part of what we commonly call Dubai Old Town.

In addition to crossing Dubai Creek on an Abra to get from Deira to Bur Dubai, the Creek can be explored during a traditional dhow cruise.

A dhow is a traditional Arabic sailing vessel , and taking a cruise on one is a great way to see the creek and the surrounding areas!

You can choose from a variety of different cruise options, ranging from dinner cruises to sightseeing cruises. While on board, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the creek and the Dubai skyline , as well as learn more about the history and culture of the city.

The Creek is the starting point of dinner cruises in Dubai. It’s a great way to enjoy a boat ride on the river and discover the city from another angle!

This boat trip is offered in 2 versions (click on the orange links for more details):

• A traditional boat cruise + Buffet dinner + Demonstration of local folk dances
• A luxury cruise with gourmet dinner .

A cruise is also included in the Dubai Explorer Pass .

Located on the Western side of Dubai Creek, Bur Dubai (which literally translates as “mainland Dubai”) forms the other half of the Old Dubai.

Here are the best places to visit in Bur Dubai:

• Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House: The old house of the Al Maktoum family until 1958. You will see photos and documents about the history of the city.
• Old Souk, one of the oldest in Dubai. You can find everything there: slippers, souvenirs, traditional lamps…
• The Textile Souk: if you are looking for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, the Textile Souk is the place to go. Here, you can find a wide range of textiles, including beautiful embroidered fabrics and colorful carpets.
• Meena Bazaar, a market where you can buy Indian goods: fabrics, spices, jewelry.
• Hindi Lane and its Indian stalls. The best place to try traditional dishes at a reasonable price.
• Sheik Mohamed Cultural Center: Here you can have lunch with an Emirati in a traditional house. The center was opened by the Sheikh to allow tourists to learn more about United Arab Emirates (UAE) traditions. Reservation is required, click here.
• Al-Seef Market : a very nice place to take a stroll, featuring restaurants and shops in traditional houses replicas.
• The Grand Mosque , the largest mosque of Dubai (not open to visitors, you can only see the outside if you’re not Muslim). It shouldn’t be confused with the famous Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque.
• Hal Fahidi historical district , more info about it a bit further in this guide
• Dubai Museum: the perfect place to learn more about the history of the city (and specifically old Dubai). I tell you more about it a bit below too.

If you’re visiting the Old Dubai , you should definitely take some time to explore the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood , also known as Al Bastakiya quarter.

Located in the heart of the city, Al Fahidi is full of narrow alleyways and historic buildings that offer a glimpse into the past. It’s a popular destination for travelers who want to experience the traditional side of Dubai.

Here, you can explore the city’s traditional architecture, shop for souvenirs, and sample some of the best regional cuisine.

The district is made up of over 50 historic buildings , most of which were built in the late 1800s.

You can take a guided tour of the Old Dubai to learn more about its history and architecture, or explore the area on your own.

As you wander the narrow streets, you’ll pass by traditional wind towers, sand-colored homes and small art galleries.

If you’re looking for places to visit in Old Dubai , you should head to Dubai Museum , located in Al Fahidi Fortress (Bur Dubai)

It traces the entire history of Dubai , from the first tribes who lived there through the economic boom in the 1960s, to the future plans for the coming years.

There, you will discover former fishing boats, objects from the nomads’ daily life , weapons and archaeological remains .

The museum is very interesting and allows you do get a good grasp of how the city looked like before its impressive development.

The entrance fee to the museum is 3 AED . It’s open every day except Friday morning.

To get to the Dubai museum, take the metro to Al Ghubaiba or Sharaf DG Metro Stations . Both are located around 10-15 minutes on foot from Dubai museum.

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding is a great place to learn more about the culture and customs of Dubai.

The center offers cultural activities, including guided tours of the district, traditional Arabic meals , and workshops on Arabic calligraphy and henna painting.

The center also hosts regular Q&A sessions where you can ask local guides any questions you have about the city.

Every week day, a cultural lunch is organized at Sheikh Mohammed Centre . It’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about Arabic culture!

You need to book your lunch by clicking on the button below:

Dubai Old town is home to numerous traditional Arabic restaurants and cafes , where you can try some of the delicious local cuisine.

Be sure to try dishes like hummus, shawarma, and falafel , which are all staples of the Arabic cuisine.

And don’t forget to wash it all down with a cup of Arabic coffee or a refreshing glass of mint tea.

If you’re more looking for Indian food, head to Hindi Lane : you won’t regret it!

To help you organize your visit, here is my recommended 1 day itinerary in Old Dubai.

• Start by going to Deira district and visit the famous souks. You can opt for a guided tour ( click here ).
• Take an Abra to cross Dubai Creek from Deira.
• You will arrive in Bur Dubai . Visit the souks (including the textile souk)
• Head to Hal Fahidi historical district and visit the Dubai Museum.

If you don’t want to spend the whole day in Old Dubai, you can do the 2 following activities at the end of the afternoon:

Let’s now go to the Dubai Frame . Ideally, plan to be there a bit before sunset. The easiest way to get there is to take a Taxi. You will need to book your tickets for the Dubai Frame in advance by clicking here.

To end your day in style, you should now go to Dubai Garden Glow , the perfect night time visit!

This large park features hundreds of sculptures coming to life every evening during light shows with musical backgrounds. I really loved it!

You need to book your ticket in advance by clicking on the button below:

There are hundreds of hotels in Dubai, and choosing the best for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have selected for you the best hotels in Dubai for each district, depending on your budget. I have also made a special list of the most beautiful luxury hotels in Dubai.

As always, to get the best prices, you should book your hotel as early as possible!

The best hotels in Downtown Dubai (near the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa )

• DoubleTree of Hilton Dubai – Business Bay: Located 1.5 km from Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. Very spacious and comfortable room, well decorated and equipped from 110€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: free shuttle to the Dubai Mall, good breakfast, comfort, tranquility. This my favorite hotel in Dubai for its exceptional value for money!
• Rove Downtown: Only 600 meters from the Dubai Mall. Bright and clean double room with view on Burj Khalifa, from 150€, breakfast for 15€. Strong points: Access to the Dubai Mall on foot, helpful staff, free shuttle service to the beach, Dubai Museum or Madinat Souk.
• Taj Dubai: Located 800 meters from Burj Khalifa. Modern and luxurious room with bay window overlooking the city and marble bathroom starting at 220€ per night, breakfast at 32€. Strong points: The magnificent view from the roof, the Indian decoration, the large swimming pool. An excellent hotel in Dubai city center, perfect for a romantic stay!
• Palace Downtown: Located on the lake at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, this 5-star hotel offers magnificent rooms with balcony, with an exceptional view of the Burj Khalifa. From 380€ per night, breakfast at 39€. Strong points: the exceptional location, the beautiful surroundings, the very attentive and helpful staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Downtown Dubai!

The best hotels in old Dubai (Deira and Bur Dubai – Convenient to visit Dubai Old town)

• Golden Sands Hotel Apartments : Located in Bur Dubai, 1.5 km from the Dubai Museum. Apartment equipped with kitchenette and washing machine, from 80€ per night, breakfast from 11€. Strong points: Cleanliness, the heated swimming pool, the comfortable apartments
• Swissôtel Al Ghurair Dubai: Located in Deira district. Warm and spacious room from 115€, breakfast at 27€. Strong points: the pleasant staff, the view, the good breakfast. It’s my favourite in Old Dubai for its excellent value for money!
• Hyatt Regency Creek Heights Residences: Located next to Creekside Park. Very spacious, super comfortable and very well equipped rooms starting at 130€ per night, breakfast at 33€. Strong points: 5 minutes walk from the metro, the warm welcome, the quiet location, the spa.
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek : 5* hotel located in Deira bay. Double room with balcony overlooking the bay from 150€, breakfast at 29€. Strong points: The proximity of the metro and the shops, the beautiful swimming pool, the comfortable bed and the amazing view. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Old Dubai!

Dubai’s best beach hotels

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach, Dubai: Located 300 meters from the beach. Rooms and apartments with sea view from 125€, breakfast at 27€. Strong points: The view, the comfortable beds, the location near the beach and the harbor.
• Amwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach – Dubai: Located along “The Walk”. Rooms with balcony overlooking the Gulf and Palm Jumeirah from 175€, breakfast at 24€. Strong points: the exceptional view, the proximity of the tram and metro, restaurants and shops at the foot of the hotel.
• Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach: Located 150 meters from the beach. Contemporary room with balcony and sea view from 230€, breakfast at 22€. Strong points: the infinity pool, the very good breakfast, the spa, the ideal location to enjoy the sea.
• Grosvenor House Hotel and Apartments: Located on the port promenade. Elegant and bright double room from 290€, breakfast at 42€. Strong points: Comfort, access to the private beach, the quality of the food.

The most beautiful luxury hotels in Dubai

• Atlantis The Palm, Dubai : One of the emblematic hotels of the city, located in Palm Jumeirah. Room from 300€, breakfast from 42€. Strong points: Includes access to Aquaventure Park and The Lost Chambers aquarium, private beach, swimming pools.
• Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites – Ultra All Inclusive: Also located in Palm Jumeirah, this luxury hotel offers all inclusive rooms (all meals included) from 452€. Strong points: the quality of the meals, the setting, the amazing rooms.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai: Located directly on the beach of JBR Walk. Elegantly furnished rooms with balcony and sea view from 500€ per night, breakfast at 39€. Strong points: 6 swimming pools, a private beach, the spa, the very helpful staff.
• Armani Hotel Dubai: Located in the Burj Khalifa Tower! Rooms decorated by the fashion designer Giorgio Armani, starting at 550€ per night, breakfast at 41€. Strong points: the privilege of sleeping in the Burj Khalifa, the refinement of the place, the view.
• Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah: Located in Palm Jumeirah. Luxury suite with living room and dining room starting at 750€, breakfast included. Strong points: The private beach, the huge swimming pool and the beautiful gardens.
• Burj Al Arab Jumeirah: THE luxury hotel, one of the rare 7* hotels in the world! The “smallest” suite is 170m² and prices start at 1290€, breakfast at 74€. I can assure you that your stay in Dubai will be truly exceptional and unforgettable!

You didn’t find your dream hotel in this selection?

You should thus have a look at my article about the best hotels in Dubai by clicking on the following link: Where to stay in Dubai?

In order to help you plan your stay in Dubai, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on the duration of your trip .

They are 100% free and you can find them here: simply click on the orange links to read the guides!

• 2 days in Dubai – The perfect itinerary for 48h!
• 3 Days in Dubai – The best 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Dubai – The defitinive guide to plan your trip
• 5 Days in Dubai – How to spend 5 days in Dubai
• 1 Week in Dubai – The best itinerary to visit Dubai in 7 days!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the corresponding article. I will be glad to help you plan your stay in Dubai.

Discover all my articles about Dubai : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Dubai are listed there.

• Dubai: The 30 best places to visit – All best things to do and activities!
• Burj Khalifa: The definitive guide to all tickets + Tips
• Dubai Aquarium: discover one of Dubai’s must see attraction
• Dubai Mall: How to plan your visit of this huge shopping center!
• Dubai Old Town: 10 best things to do
• Dubai Fountain Show: all my tips to enjoy it to the fullest!
• Palm Jumeirah: the 15 best things to do!
• TOP Activities in Dubai – The 30 best activities and excursions to do in Dubai!
• Dubai Zipline – Price, info and reservations for the best experience in town!
• The best desert safaris in Dubai – my 7 favorites! (4WD, quad, buggy and more)
• Where to stay in Dubai? The guide to the best hotels by district, for all budgets
• Dubai Pass: The best way to save time and money in Dubai!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Top Sight Tours Group

Dubai’s Amazing Old Town, Souks & Tastings Tour

Old town dubai tour .

This 3 hour tour is all about the origins of Dubai and the Old Historic Quarter

Sights we will see on this Dubai walking tour include :

• Dubai Creek
• Bastakia Quarter
• Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
• Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort
• Bur Dubai Abra Station
• Dubai Spice & Gold Souk

We start in Al Seef : which has a hidden secret…. The head to amazing Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Here we will try some authentic Arabic Coffee

After quenching our thirst we then w alk along Dubai Creek, the lifeline of the city, which separates the city from Deira to the north and bur Dubai to the North and enjoy the breathtaking views of it

We will try some traditional snacks and learn about how to barter with the locals in the market before entering the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. With the traditional homes, narrow lanes, the wind tunnels visible everywhere

We then catch an Abra (traditional boat) across the creek to the Gold ( one of the best photo stops) & Spice Souks.

15+ sights in a 3 hour Dubai guided tour with a friendly local guide.

Know before you go

What’s included:

• Fun local guide!
• 15+ Top sights of Dubai’s old town
• Small Tour Group Size (10 – 15 guests per group)

Please bring with you

• Comfy Shoes
• Camera (for all the photos you’ll be taking!)

Where we meet

to be confirmed 

Tour Highlights

Old Dubai Town sights include:

• Explore the Grand Souk
• Visit the Gold & Spice Souk
• Take a trip on a local boat : Abra !
• Enjoy Arabic coffee
• Al Seef area
• Learn about the history of Dubai 
• Enjoy some local street food (dates, local pastries and more)
• Fun local guide with a wealth of knowledge 

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A walking tour of Old Dubai, the city's historic heart

By Pearl Yan

A city of futuristic architectural wonders and grand ambitions, Dubai has evolved far beyond its origins as a fishing and pearling village, and trading port. An area on the banks of the Dubai Creek tells a different story, however; fondly referred to as Old Dubai, the heritage district is where you can retreat from the shining towers of the metropolis and journey into the emirate’s past. Take a glimpse into a more traditional way of life in the maze-like alleyways of this part of Dubai where surprises await. Here are the best places to eat, see and stay in Dubai's old town.

Take a walking tour

Bayt Al Khanyar or the Dagger Museum is dedicated to this traditional ornamental weapon

Start your exploration in Old Dubai with its plethora of museums. In Al Fahidi, a historical neighbourhood that dates back to the 19th century, you should start your journey at Bayt Al Khanyar Museum , also known as the dagger museum, where you can unpack the cultural significance of the Arabian dagger and linger over a collection of photographs portraying generations of UAE rulers proudly sporting their khanyar . Don’t forget to stop by the museum's cosy coffee shop that's decorated with wooden furniture, patterned tablecloths, and shelves filled with dallah (traditional Arabic coffee pots) of all shapes and sizes.

Raw and roasted Arabic coffee beans on display at the Coffee Museum

Next door, coffee lovers will rejoice over the Coffee Museum , a showcase of the treasured tradition, featuring local antiques such as coffee grinders used in the First World War and from an Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Upstairs, you will find a lounge and library housing a selection of coffee books from around the world. Then, continue walking in the direction of Dubai Creek, where you will find the Coin Museum on your left. Here, over 470 rare coins from the Middle East dating back to the 7th century are on exhibit in eight galleries. From here, follow the winding streets in the direction of the XVA Gallery , which plays host to an regularly changing calendar of art exhibitions, an artisanal boutique that supports small and local businesses, and a courtyard cafe serving freshly prepared vegetarian food.

Fresh bags of spices and herbs, at the Dubai Spice Market

After a stroll through the maze-like pathways and traditional wind towers, make your way to the banks of Dubai Creek and hop aboard an abra for one dirham ($0.27) or two dirhams ($0.54) if you opt for an air-conditioned cabin. With each abra seating 20 people on narrow wooden benches, the ride offers a unique perspective on the juxtaposition of the city’s modern skyline and historical waterfront buildings. Hop off at Deira Old Souk Abra Station and cross Baniyas Road, and you’ll find yourself in the Spice Souk, soaking up the atmosphere as you trail past shopfronts stacked high with bright and colourful herbs and spices, accompanied by the smell of burning incense. Vendors will call you by Hollywood celebrities' names to get your attention, and a friendly haggle is expected. For those looking to shop for souvenirs, a variety of fragrances are also on sale, from oud perfume and Arabian-style incense burners, to bakhoor , a more gentle way of enjoying the aroma of oud by burning agarwood chips soaked with jasmine and sandalwood.

Old Dubai's Gold Souk is busy from dawn til dusk

However, your souk shop is not complete without a visit to the Gold Souk - one of Dubai’s oldest trading spots. Whether you’re just browsing or looking to make a serious investment, the Gold Souk is renowned for its impressive range of gold, jewellery, gemstones and other rare metals, and what's on sale has been authenticated by the Dubai government for buyers' peace of mind.

Where to eat

When it comes to dining options in Old Dubai, you are in for some of the best Emirati restaurants in town. Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant is a culinary gem with an extensive menu which features authentic Emirati dishes, from local favourites such as machboos (Emirati spiced rice), sizzling grills and fried seafood dishes in a traditional courtyard setting. Everything is freshly made, with live cooking stations demonstrating the preparation of r egag (bread) and luqaimat (fried dough balls). You can also book a breakfast cooking class and try your hand at preparing your own Emirati breakfast including balaleet (sweetened vermicelli served with egg) and khubz tannour (Arabic flatbread) with the guidance of a chef.

Next door, Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) hosts a range of activities to promote the Emirati culture and traditions, including meals with a local to welcome you and answer any questions about the emirate. During the holy month of Ramadan, SMCCU also holds iftar, the fast-breaking meal held at sunset, which includes a visit to the Diwan mosque and an Emirati feast of specialty dishes, desserts and tea.

Arabian Tea House nearby is also a popular choice - it’s a quaint cafe in a courtyard setting with turquoise benches, white rattan chairs, lace curtains and an open-air thatched roof. The tea house proudly serves a wide variety of popular Emirati dishes, from saloona (Arabic stew) to its Arabian Tea House Special Wrap filled with roasted lamb. The desserts are just as tasty, ranging from ferni (rose water rice pudding) and khabees (toasted flour sweet) to date cake. Don’t leave without enjoying a piping hot cup of qahwa (Arabic coffee).

Mazmi restaurant in Old Dubai is a great spot for watching the river traffic

For casual food made with quality ingredients, look no further than Mazmi , an Italian-owned cafe that oozes Mediterranean charm. With an expansive terrace overlooking the waters of Dubai Creek, Mazmi provides an idyllic setting for a non-alcoholic sundowner as you watch the passing abras; even better, it serves freshly baked cakes and croissants filled with homemade jams imported from Italy.

Wokyo Noodle Bar serves excellent ramen

Japanese food might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re in Old Dubai, but Wokyo Noodle Bar is not to be missed - especially if you are a ramen lover. The restaurant features tatami-style seating indoors and wooden benches on the terrace perfect for al fresco dining. Its menu has a selection of specialty broths with ramen and sauces for stir-fried noodles to choose from, as well as matcha soft-serve ice cream and homemade iced teas for those with a sweet tooth.

Where to stay

Relax at the XVA Art Hotel which has an excellent cafe and gallery space

A day trip is enough to feel the charm of Old Dubai, but for those who want to take a slower pace and savour the stories behind every mud brick, a stay in one of the hotels in the area will render a true sense of place. XVA Art Hotel in Al Fahidi is a chic property with 15 rooms spread out around three shaded courtyards, each individually designed by established creatives and artists, such as Zayan Ghandour, the designer behind award-winning lifestyle concept S*uce. Breakfast is served at XVA Cafe, where well-executed vegetarian dishes meet Arabic influences.

Al Seef Heritage Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton makes a good base for your explorations

Another fantastic option is Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton , which combines traditional, bedouin-style design which draws deeply on the emirate’s rich heritage with thoughtful, contemporary service. Located in Al Seef, the hotel provides an ideal base to explore the area, from modern gift shops to waterfront restaurants from where you can take an abra just a few minutes away on foot. Sabaa is the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, offering authentic Middle Eastern fare in a homely setting.

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See our Calendar Below for All Tours, as well as Things to Do & Travel Tips

Featured tours.

Downtown Dubai History & Architecture Tour

Downtown dubai history & architecture tour highlights.

• Different architectural landmarks within Dubai Mall feat. Aquarium, Dubai Dino and MAD Gallery
• Souk Al Bahar, Burj Khalifa Arch and Palace Downtown
• Burj Plaza and Dubai Walk of Fame
• Dubai Opera

Flavors of Arabia

Flavors of arabia highlights.

• Abra & Dubai Creek
• Sample: Taboulleh, Hummus & Falafel, Moutabel, Machboos & more!

Old Dubai Highlights

• Al Fahidi Courtyard Houses in Al Bastakiya
• Dubai Museum
• The Ruler’s Court
• Dubai Old Textile Souk called Mina Bazar
• Traditional Abra Ride (wooden boat) to ride across the creek
• Dubai Creek

Welcome to Dubai by Foot, offering off-beat, curated Dubai Walking Tours. Each of our tours are crafted with research, experience, and cultural submersion that can only be delivered by our hand-picked local guides.

Let us show you Dubai in a way that will appeal to all your senses and have you leave with a deep understanding of this city's past, its regional command, and its emerging international presence.

Tours We Offer:

• Old Dubai Tour
• Flavors of Arabia Food Tour
• Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall (Downtown Architecture) Walking Tour
• Art, Jewels and Chocolate Tour
• 1001 Arabian Nights: Legends and Lore from the Trucial Coast
• Dubai City Tour
• Dubai Desert Safari
• Futuristic Dubai Walking Tours

Book Your Tour

• Feel free to send payment with PayPal: paypal.me/dubaibyfoot (If you having trouble paying us - we can send you a link to pay in USD. Just email us and we can easily sort it out).
• If you'd like a private walking tour and you are a group of 4 or more, please email us and we will do our best to offer you a discount.

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Why Choose a Walking Tour with Dubai By Foot?

To Explore the City - To Stay Fit - To Meet New People - To Take Better Photos? All good answers.

At Dubai By Foot, we bring over 15 years of tour guiding experience to the table (or shall we say to the walking tour!). We have done our research and our guides are trained as the city’s best ambassadors, historians, art lovers, and storytellers. Most of all, we love Dubai and we love showing this wonderful city to our guests.

Our passion for this city is contagious and it will leave you energized.

What to expect while on a Dubai By Foot Walking Tour:

• When you walk with us you get the real scoop . We share history, stories of the past and present, urban legends and fun facts.
• You see the attractions up-close-and-personal , and really get a feel for the city. We are unique in our style and in the design of our tours. We are also flexible and willing to tailor the walk according to your interests.
• You get to interact with the real people of Dubai. These people make the city what it is - a melting pot of cultures. We encourage you to ask questions and engage with the shopkeepers, vendors, cooks, and servers. This will allow you to find out their story and how they fit into this amazing culture of tolerance.
• The devil is in the detail - there are so many small structures, architectural nuances, art installations, design elements, historical significances that only our walking tours can capture. It would be a shame for you to come to Dubai and miss these small wonderful things about our city that might get overshadowed by the mega-structures surrounding us.

We are affordable, 100% personalized and the most extensive in our offering of private tours for schools, educational institutes, universities, corporates etc.

We can also arrange tours in Spanish, German, Chinese or other languages.

In addition to the above, we can also design very specific tours, such as architecture, art, food, business opportunities, and so on as per guest requirements.

Come fall in love with Dubai!

About Dubai

In Dubai, everything is bigger and better. It’s home to the world’s tallest building, the largest mall, the biggest indoor theme park, and the largest Ferris Wheel. The city is constantly evolving under the leadership of the visionary Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

In 2021, Dubai will play host to the World Expo, and there are even more new developments that are expected to launch before that big event.

At the heart of the glitz and glam, however, is a city with a rich cultural heritage. Dubai first made its name as a fishing and pearling village, and as a strategic port on the Persian Gulf. Even with modern developments, the city’s history is still alive in an area where one can savor a cup of traditional coffee, catch a ride on an old-fashioned abra, or shop in the traditional souks .

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Welcome to a sun-soaked metropolis like no other

Plan your dream wedding in an unforgettable destination

Discover the city's insiders, influencers and innovators

Every district in Dubai tells its own unique story

Admire the city's traditional arts, crafts and cultural gems

Get more out of your holiday with these guides

Escape to the hills and explore nature

Answer the call of the wild and experience desert thrills

Uncover the city’s rich heritage and vibrant arts scene

Embark on thrilling new adventures for all ages

Taste award-winning world flavours and local cuisine

Visit the latest hotspots, openings and attractions

Find new surprises at modern malls and traditional souks

Marvel at record-breaking venues and iconic landmarks

Unwind at Dubai's luxury spas and wellbeing havens

What do you travel for? Find inspiration with our itineraries

Book a table at these fresh hotspots

Taste a deliciously different side of Dubai

Discover our homegrown culinary heroes

See all the restaurants unveiled in the Dubai selection

Weekends in Dubai are for feasting

Explore Dubai's plant-based concepts that impress

Reserve a table at top restaurants for incredible prices

Browse through our listing of restaurants

Don't miss a beat – live concerts, festivals, activities and more

Celebrate Eid Al Adha with family entertainment, traditional feasts and shopping

Enjoy unbeatable sales, special offers and prize draws

Plan ahead for a hassle-free travel experience

From etiquette to currency, we answer all your questions

Use our tool to book flight tickets to Dubai and plan your trip to the city

Dubai has an incredible range of stay options for every budget

From take-off to touchdown, navigating Dubai is a breeze

Your complete guide to enjoying one of the world's safest cities to the fullest

Find out all about Dubai’s climate throughout the year with our weather guide

All you need to know about the dirham, from exchange rates to helpful tips

Helpful information for travellers with special needs

Unlock huge savings with pre-paid access to top spots

Get our apps for the latest attractions, events & itineraries

Save big with great offers on Dubai's top sights and activities

Indulge in retail therapy for less with big discounts

Enjoy a trip to Dubai with incredible accommodation offers

Sign up for kid-friendly activities or attend a live show with the entire family

Get tickets to the best concerts featuring A-list artists at world-class venues

Join Dubai's community sporting activities and race to the finish line

Sing along as the star belts out his top hits

Get ready to rock with the legendary band

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• Visit Dubai

Heritage walk in Old Dubai

Arts & Culture

Mon, October 16, 2023

Discover Dubai’s cultural gems wandering through the winding alleyways of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.

Culture calling

What you'll see on your tour

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