Old Dubai walk: Al Fahidi, abra ride and the souks
Overview
Discover the Dubai that was here before the skyscrapers. With a local guide, you walk the lanes of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, where sand-coloured houses are cooled by traditional wind towers, and hear how the city grew from a fishing and pearling settlement on the Creek.
Stroll through the Textile Souk, then cross Dubai Creek the way residents have for generations: on an abra, a small wooden water taxi. On the Deira side, follow your nose into the Spice Souk, with sacks of saffron, dried lemons and frankincense, and on to the glittering windows of the Gold Souk.
Along the way your guide stops for small tastes of everyday Dubai food, such as a hot stuffed bread from a neighbourhood bakery or a cup of karak tea.
Tours run in the cooler late afternoon, and the route is adapted in the hottest months. Wear comfortable shoes, and cover shoulders and knees.
Highlights
- Wind-tower lanes of Al Fahidi
- Abra ride across Dubai Creek
- Spice Souk and Gold Souk in Deira
- Street-food tastings on the way
- Local guide with stories of old Dubai
What's included
- Licensed local guide
- Abra crossing of Dubai Creek
- Food and drink tastings on the route
- Bottled water
- Hotel transfers
- Purchases in the souks
- Tips
Request this tour
Send us your dates and a SkyRay advisor will confirm availability and price.
Itinerary
Frequently asked questions
Around 3 km at an easy pace, with regular stops. The route is flat.
Tastings are small and varied, and some contain gluten, dairy or nuts. Tell us about allergies when you book so we can check with the guide.
