Tour
3,7 km
1h30
16 audios
Text version
This tour takes you through Old Town Dubai, in one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods. Here, you’ll find traditional houses, colourful souks, and elegant mosques. Consequently, the Deira is a district that has kept its authentic charm and offers a delightful journey into the city’s historical past. Once the heart of a small fishing village, this neighbourhood has resisted time and was unaffected by the rise of modern skyscrapers that now dominate most of the city. Here, you’ll sense the spirit of old Dubai, with its traditions and customs that reflect its former ties to Great Britain. A colourful and fascinating visit, perfect for discovering this historical district!
The Spice Souk is a feast for the senses! Here, colors and aromas blend in a lively market filled with spices from all across the Middle East. Herbs, powders, and some of the world’s most famous spices—such as pepper, cinnamon, and chili—are on full display in this vibrant and colourful setting. Read more
Here’s a true testimony to Dubai’s past. This traditional 19th-century house once belonged to the most famous pearl merchant in the region—back when pearl trading was one of the city’s main sources of income. Built in 1890, it showcases the typical architecture and decorative style you’d find at the time. Read more
Before becoming this cosmopolitan city, Dubai was a small fishing village that depended on pearl trading and livestock farming. At the time, locals mainly ate dates, camel milk, and fish. Once the city started to grow, it welcomed expatriates who brought along their own traditions and recipes. Read more
Time for bargaining! The Deira souk is packed with all kinds of products—and the prices can be very appealing if you’re good at negotiating. Don’t hesitate to haggle with the vendors when buying your souvenirs. It’s completely normal here to chat and negotiate for a better deal. Read more
Here you are in front of the first school ever built in the Emirate of Dubai, dating back to 1912—long before the city’s many skyscrapers that only started appearing in the late 20th century. Traditional and authentic, this school is now open to all those willing to discover what education looked like in early Dubai. Read more
To reach the Deira district, visitors have two options: either take the metro or hop on one of these traditional wooden boats called abras. You’ve probably already taken one to get here — it’s actually one of the most popular means of transport to get around Dubai, both fast and affordable. Read more
Khor Dubai means “Dubai River”, though it’s more commonly known as Dubai Creek. This natural saltwater creek, reaching into the desert, played a key role in the city’s development as it allowed the construction of a port. Read more
Let me tell you a bit about the history of Dubai during this short walk. You might be wondering how this extravagant city, right in the middle of a desert in the United Arab Emirates, has become what it is today—home to the tallest skyscraper in the world, the biggest shopping mall, and one of the most visited tourist destinations on the planet. Read more
As the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is truly a cosmopolitan place that has welcomed—and continues to welcome—expats from all over the world. Today, around 90% of Dubai’s population comes from other countries, particularly India and Pakistan. Read more
Dubai is home to a large number of souks, especially in the Deira neighborhood where you are right now, as well as in Bur Dubai on the other side of the creek. Here, you’ll likely find some great deals, whether you’re looking for traditional products, branded clothing—though watch out for counterfeits—perfume, electronics, or household goods. Read more
As you’ve probably already noticed, mosques are an integral part of Dubai’s landscape. They reflect the dominant religion in the United Arab Emirates, which is Islam. Mosques are easily recognizable by their typical structure, usually composed of the main prayer hall, a minaret, and domes. Read more
This clay building, built in 1939, is a museum dedicated to the history and development of Dubai’s police force, their uniforms and equipment, as well as the city’s judicial system. Inside, you’ll find exhibitions, life-size models of traditional police attire, weapons displayed, and many more! Read more
Far from the towering skyscrapers that dominate most of Dubai’s landscape, Deira is a must-see as it’s one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, along with Bur Dubai across the creek. This authentic and touristic area is home to many traditional souks selling clothing, perfumes, spices, and gold. Read more
This is one of the main commercial streets in the Deira district, as well as being the longest. We’re right next to a souk that bears the same name, where you’ll find many traditional products and souvenirs in all sorts of little boutiques. This street also connects the centre of Deira to the Creek Harbour. Read more
A real treasure trove in Dubai, the Gold Souk is quite impressive. With over 300 retailers selling gold, silver, and precious stones, the aisles of this unique market are dazzling. It's actually one of the largest gold markets in the world—and one of the cheapest too, so why not treat yourself to a little souvenir? Read more
Discover Dubaï with app
An interactive guide through the most beautiful streets, squares, and districts
15 fun audioguides full of historical facts, anecdotes, and legends
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