The historic heart of Dubai, Old Dubai is a vibrant window into Emirati traditions and culture. From traditional markets full of centuries-old shops to interesting museums that let you dive right into the past of this erstwhile fishing village, this is where you can wander around the maze-like back streets, find hidden cafes and rare spices in local stores, explore museums and the waterfront promenade of Al Seef. There is plenty more to do in Dubai’s old town, including theme park visits and boat rides. If you are planning a trip to Dubai, keep this guide handy and make sure to include this historic part of the UAE in your itinerary.
Elevate your trip to Dubai with our list of things to do at Dubai International Airport.
What is Old Dubai?
The older parts of Dubai, including Deira, Bur Dubai, Satwa, and Karama, are collectively known as Old Dubai. These areas, located on the western side of Dubai Creek, are considered some of the most historic spots of the emirate. Home to a wide range of iconic destinations including ancient forts and souks, Dubai’s old town is a must-visit.
How to reach Old Dubai
Old Dubai is well-connected to other parts of Dubai through buses, the metro, and water taxis. Local taxis can be booked easily for a comfortable ride to the town. From personal experience, walking is a great option if you are staying near the older parts of the emirate. The roads are lively and full of markets and restaurants that are great for quick stops.
By metro: Al Fahidi Metro Station and Al Ghubaiba Metro Station are located in Old Dubai.
By bus: Bus lines 102, 103, 13D, 27, C28, C9, and E16 stop at Old Dubai town.
By water taxi: Water taxis are available from Deira Old Souk Abra Station, Dubai Marina, Al Ghubaiba, and Palm Jumeirah.
Best time to visit Old Dubai
Same as the rest of Dubai, the best time to visit Old Dubai is from November to March. The weather is comparatively cooler during this time, making sightseeing and shopping at the open-air souks a pleasant experience.
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Things to do in Old Dubai
Explore Al Fahidi Neighbourhood: There is plenty to do in the Al Fahidi neighbourhood of Old Dubai. From exploring the historic Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Museum to the high-end shops and flea markets of Meena Bazaar, this place is full of amazing spots. Walk across the Bastakiya Quarter and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) for a culturally immersive experience, or check out the home-turned-museum Sheikh Saeed al-Maktoum’s House and Wind Tower. You can also spend an evening admiring a stunning sunset at the Al Seef waterfront promenades.
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Enjoy a boat ride on Dubai Creek: Enjoy a languid boat ride on a traditional wooden boat (abra) on Dubai Creek. The four stations along the creek from where an abra ride can be booked include Deira Old Souk Abra Station, Bur Dubai Abra Station, Al Sabkha Abra Station, and Dubai Old Souk Abra Station. One of the most fun things to do in Dubai, this creek crossing boat ride is a must-do for those looking for authentic and local experiences.
Shop at the local souks: When in Old Dubai, can shopping at the historic souks be far behind? Some of the best souks in Dubai’s old town include Old Souk (Bur Dubai Souk), Dubai Textile Souk, and Naif Souk. Myriad souvenirs, perfumes, spices, apparel, handwoven fabrics, home decor, gold jewellery, and of course, pashmina shawls, are your best buys here. I purchased a couple of shawls, earrings, and dates, along with a small bottle of oud attar, a fragrance integral to being in Dubai (as I was told by the shopkeeper).
For a cooler experience, check out our story on indoor experiences to enjoy in Dubai.
Sample local delicacies: From a taste of authentic Arabic coffee and cheesy-sweet Knafeh to the Emirati Machboos, local delicacies in Old Dubai just keep piling up. There are plenty of dishes to try, all made with age-old recipes and authentic ingredients. Sample Chebab (pancakes stuffed with cheese and dates mixture), Ghuzi (the national dish of the UAE that resembles slow-cooked Biryani), and Chelo Kebab with Khubz. Make sure to bring your appetite!
Embark on a walking tour: Be it a guided walking tour booked in advance, or an impromptu jaunt across the scenic streets of Dubai’s old town on your own, the stunning architectural beauty of the area will not fail to impress. While the guided ones will have knowledgeable locals telling you about the history of the spots, a walk by your lonesome will let you take it all in on your terms. Find hidden bakeries and small shops selling specialised herbs (dried rose hips are a must-buy for sublime teas and drinks) and perfumes, or enjoy a unique camel meat burger at a rustic out-of-the-way restaurant, the choice is yours. We walked for hours every day, looking things up online, and finding new surprises in the neighbourhood.
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Spend time at The Dubai Heritage Village: Explore the Dubai Heritage Village, aka Hatta Village, for an insight into Dubai’s traditions and culture. Located in the Al Shindagha Historical Neighborhood, the heritage village is a living museum where visitors can watch potters, weavers, and other artisans in action, as well as learn about the pearl diving industry of the region. Those interested can enrol in public workshops run by the Emirates Heritage Club for metalwork, spinning yarn, pottery, and more.
Check out Dubai Garden Glow: Although I couldn’t fit it into my schedule for Old Dubai, Dubai Garden Glow is something I can go back for. This theme park is full of whimsical animals, forests, flowers, and more crafted out of colourful fairy lights. A stunning, surreal experience for sure! A must-visit if travelling with children, since the entry tickets include visits to the Dinosaur Park and Ice Park. Check out their website for some stunning imagery.
Visit art galleries and museums: Old Dubai is a veritable treasure trove for those seeking an immersive experience in the region’s past and present cultural representations. And what better place to do it than at the art galleries and museums of Dubai’s old town? Spend time at The Majlis Gallery hosting temporary exhibitions or at Alserkal Cultural Foundation where beautiful artworks abound. The Coffee Museum, Al Shindagha Museum, and Crossroad of Civilizations Museum are a few of the best museums in Old Dubai for a culturally rich experience. A fun afternoon is promised at the Museum Of Illusions near Dubai Creek, perfect if looking for things to do in Dubai with kids.
Best restaurants and cafes in Old Dubai
While Old Dubai is full of amazing restaurants, hidden cafes, and rustic-looking out-of-the-way eateries, there are a few that are a must-visit for the ambience, the views, and of course, the local dishes. Some of the best restaurants and cafes in Old Dubai include Al Bait Al Qadeem Restaurant and Cafe, Bastakiah Nights, Creek City Restaurant, Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe – Al Fahidi, and Bayt Al Wakeel. For a more immersive foodie experience, check out our story on restaurants in Dubai that redefine dining.
Hotels to stay in Old Dubai
Some of the best hotels in Dubai are located in Old Dubai, offering spacious rooms, premium amenities, seamless services, and views that can rival anywhere in the world. A few of the most popular accommodation options here include Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, City Seasons Towers Hotel Bur Dubai, Grand Excelsior Hotel – Bur Dubai, and Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf.
Book your stay at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk via Booking.com
Book your stay at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk via Agoda.com
Book your stay at City Seasons Towers Hotel Bur Dubai via Booking.com
Book your stay at City Seasons Towers Hotel Bur Dubai via Agoda.com
Old Dubai vs New Dubai
Pitting Old Dubai against New Dubai would probably not be a fair competition, since both are so different.
- While Old Dubai offers a more traditional experience, New Dubai promises modern luxuries like exclusive beach clubs and iconic architectural gems such as the Burj Khalifa.
- Similarly, Old Dubai is where you can enjoy wandering the bustling centuries-old souks full of handcrafted items, whereas New Dubai is home to several high-end shopping malls that sell global fare.
- Skyscrapers and modern buildings dominate the skyline of New Dubai, whereas Old Dubai is full of charming neighbourhoods and low-rise accommodations.
(Featured image credit: Alex DROP/Flickr)
Related: The Best Times To Visit Dubai For Beautiful Weather, Lower Prices, And Fewer Crowds
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Yes, several travel agencies offer guided tours in Old Dubai.
To explore Old Dubai properly, plan to spend at least an entire day here if not two.
Depending upon the weather, wear light cotton apparel, khakis, and dresses during the day, with a shawl or light sweater to keep you warm during the nights.
A few cultural etiquette tips to keep in mind when touring Old Dubai include dressing modestly, avoiding PDA, being mindful of Ramadan fasting hours, removing shoes outside a home before entering and using your right hand to greet someone.
Yes, it is safe to explore Old Dubai. Just keep in mind the same things that you do when exploring any new place.
You can walk around Old Dubai or hire a taxi to take you to specific places.
Old Dubai Souk is the oldest local marketplace in Dubai. It is a bustling space full of shops selling everything from jewellery to spices to perfumes to home decor.
The Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Dubai Creek, Old Dubai Souk, Coffee Museum, and The Dubai Heritage Village (Hatta Heritage Village) are some of the most popular historical attractions in Old Dubai.
Written By
Esha Dasgupta
Senior Digital Writer - Growth, TravelEsha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked ..Read More
