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What to Do in Old Dubai: Our Guide

By Dylan Essertier and Laura Ratliff

Along the Dubai Creek you'll find a gritty, densely populated area buzzing with back-street haggling, and hole-in-the-wall restaurants that serve delicious and affordable food from around the Middle East. A historical neighborhood where colorful wooden dhows bob and there's not a mega mall in sight, Old Dubai is nothing if not soulful. Discover the best places to eat and explore in our guide to Old Dubai.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Arabian Tea House  Arrow

This cafe in the historical Al Fahidi neighborhood used to be the home of a pearl merchant; now it serves traditional Emirati specialities in a charming leafy courtyard with wicker furniture, turquoise benches, and black-and-white photos of old Dubai. Come here for the Emirati breakfast: soft scrambled eggs, marinated eggplant, black olives, feta cheese, and labneh served on a giant silver platter.

Diwan Mosque Arrow

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), a non-profit organization located in one of the oldest neighborhoods of Dubai, offers interesting tours of the Diwan Mosque. You'll begin with a visit to the mosque, which is otherwise unavailable to non-Muslims, before returning to the SMCCU house for a "cultural discovery" session paired with Arabic tea, coffee, and dates in a beautiful traditional Arabic majlis (sitting area). Thanks to an "open doors open minds" policy, guests have the opportunity to ask questions about Islam and Bedouin culture.

XVA Art Hotel Arrow

Situated in the Al Fahidi Historical District, the boutique XVA Art Hotel is a unique contrast to Dubai's ubiquitous ultra-modern hotels. Owner Mona Hauser has created a remarkable 13-room inn inside the former home of Dubai's Seddiqi family, world-famous luxury watch dealers. The individually designed rooms are filled with thoughtful Persian details and works from top Middle Eastern artists. There's even an on-site gallery, which exhibits both emerging and established Middle Eastern contemporary artists. Don't be surprised if you earmark an artist who later shows at international art fairs such as Art London and Art Basel Hong Kong.

Dubai Museum at Al Fahidi Fort Arrow

Once home to a monarch and an arsenal of artillery, Al Fahidi Fort became the site of the Dubai Museum when the U.A.E. was established in 1971. The collection primarily consists of artifacts like pottery and weapons, but the sea wing offers perspective into the ocean's role in the city's development, from its shipbuilding heritage to a history of pearl-diving in the Gulf.

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Dubai Spice Souk Arrow

Dubai's sprawling spice market is arguably the most entertaining of all the city's souks. It's bustling, with intoxicating sights and smells. Many of the vendors sell the same ingredients—Persian dried limes, saffron, barberries, rose hips, and traditional Middle Eastern spice mixes. Saffron, while still pricey, is more affordable here than elsewhere in Dubai. Part of a complex that features three Jumeirah hotels and an adjoining waterway, the souk has stalls selling everything from the spices, to handmade lanterns, clothes, souvenirs, and everything in between. There are also two-dozen restaurants, indoor and out, not to mention some of the most spectacular views of the world-famous Burj Al Arab hotel. It’s free to enter, but parking and abra-style water taxis cost extra.

Creekside Restaurant & Cafe Arrow

Creekside Dubai is both a restaurant and cultural space devoted to the art and architectural heritage of the Emirates.

Abra Ride Across Dubai Creek Arrow

Riding an abra, or traditional wooden boat, is one of the most low-key ways to get a feel for life in Dubai. The boats gather on either side of Dubai Creek—in Deira or Bur Dubai—and can carry about 20 people. Many locals use the boats to get across the creek quickly and to avoid traffic, but you'll also see lots of tourists, especially at dusk. Given that it's quick and cheap, an abra ride is a must if you plan on spending any time at all in Old Dubai or visiting the QE2 .

Al Ustad Special Kabab Arrow

At Al Ustad, a 38-year-old kebab establishment, meals begin with a complimentary platter of vegetables and small bowls of yogurt with mint and cucumber. From there, the menu is short, sweet, and packed with flavor. There’s hummus and chicken soup, but the kebabs, which are all served with either rice or bread and a small dish of garlic sauce, are the house specialty. Try the Joojeh kebabs, which consist of cubes of chicken marinated in saffron, or the khorak bahraini, which is slightly tangy thanks to a marinade of dry lemon.

Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding Arrow

This non-profit produces special events (traditional Emirati meals, heritage tours) aimed at eliminating cultural barriers and increasing awareness of local U.A.E. cultures and customs. Join the group for a traditional Emirati breakfast or lunch, held multiple times a week and based on recipes from founder Abdullah bin Eisa Al Serkal's mother.

Kulcha King Arrow

With seven locations across Dubai, Kulcha King may be a chain, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Its perfect formula for Amritsari classics leaves nothing to doubt, ensuring you’ll have plenty of opportunities to eat delicious, reasonably priced Indian food in a relaxed atmosphere. The kulchas (a leavened flatbread and a variation of naan) are perfectly crispy and stuffed with everything from succulent mutton (our favorite) to sweet pumpkin. You’ll also find biryanis infused with saffron, rosewater, and chunky cubes of chicken, as well as soft buttered bread (pavs).

Dubai Coffee Museum Arrow

Dubai’s coffee museum occupies a historic two-story Emirati home on an unassuming backstreet. Inside, you’ll find a labyrinth of tiny rooms dotted with artifacts from around the world, including old grinders, pots, and roasters, which have been collected predominantly from throughout Europe and the Middle East. Among the most impressive of the collection here is the 300-year-old jug-shaped clay coffee pots known as a "jebena," which were once used in Ethiopia, where coffee is said to have gotten its start.

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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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Dubai's Old Town - The Best Things To See and Do

There is so much to explore and enjoy in Dubai, from ascending the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest structure, to skiing indoors at Ski Dubai. Dubai, however, was formerly a community of fishermen who resided around a creek. If you want to discover what life was like before the city started experiencing tremendous expansion, Dubai's Old Town is the perfect destination to visit to learn more about the history and heritage of the Emirate.

Places to visit in Dubai's Old Town

The Dubai Gold Souk in Deira is the most famous and oldest souk in Dubai and is one of the best things to do in the city not only for those who wish to buy gold but also for tourists who want to admire the dazzling jewelry without the intention of buying. The Dubai Gold Souk offers a gigantic selection of gold pieces with designs from around the world. It is home to hundreds of shops whose exquisite craftsmanship makes this gold market unlike any other. Some of these jewelry shops have been in the Gold Souk for decades which guarantees you to find the best of the best gold and precious gemstones pieces here. Whether it’s a beautiful addition to your everyday jewelry collection or splashing out for a special occasion, The Dubai Gold Souk makes it very easy for you.

There is no better location to shop for genuine and fragrant spices than the Dubai Spice Souk, situated alongside Deira's waterfront.  Visit the Spice Souk to get lost in the mountains of herbs and spices flowing out of baskets wherever you go. You can also find a fantastic assortment of nuts, oils, and saffron.

Al Bastakiya Quarter

Al Bastakiya is the oldest residential area in Dubai which dates to the 19th century. Visitors can stroll through the labyrinth of streets and admire the distinctive architecture of this neighborhood built by merchants. The wind towers atop the buildings serve as a reminder of a period before air conditioning. Traders that used the Dubai Creek for trade no longer live in the quarter now. However, it is home to a number of tourist attractions, including art galleries and conventional shops.

XVA Gallery & Hotel

Hidden in the heart of the historical Al Fahidi, in the maze-like sikkas or alleyways, on the colorful and soulful Dubai Creek, XVA Art Hotel is the former home of the Seddiqi family (Dubai’s Rolex dealers) that turned into a boutique hotel in the early 2000s by founder, Mona Hauser. XVA has created a niche and continues to facilitate conversations on art, culture, heritage and creativity in Dubai. Offering 15 individually designed suites and rooms, an award-winning restaurant, wind towers and three courtyards, this centrally located hotspot is the city’s unique retreat.

You can also explore the local art scene as well as learn about international artists at XVA Gallery. The gallery hosts exhibitions by renowned artists.  The historic building, which was originally constructed using elements like coral, contrasts sharply with the eye-catching, vibrant sculptures, creating an intriguing fusion of art and history.

Meena Bazaar

Meena Bazaar is the go-to shopping destination for South Asian clothing and handicrafts at the most competitive pricing. This tourist and local hotspot in Bur Dubai is situated between Al Fahidi Street and Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road, mostly in a single lane. Meena Bazaar, sometimes referred to as "Bur Dubai's Little India," takes you back in time with its vibrant stores and vistas of the old Dubai Creek.

Bring family and friends to Al Seef and discover laid-back contemporary style - from food to fashion and beauty - in Dubai's heritage district on the edge of its historical creek. Featuring fab views of Dubai's historic creek, traditional dhows, and old-world architecture paired with modern comforts, Al Seef is the ideal tourist lifestyle destination. From Arabic to American, Indian to Emirati, a vast array of foodie options is available at Al Seef.

Embark on a trip on the Dubai Abra, the city's oldest form of transportation. Abra derives from the Arabic word "abara," the meaning of which is "to cross".  It has been one of Dubai's most used forms of transportation for centuries, making it the emblem of the city's tradition and culture.

There are various types of Abras in service:

Museums in Old Town Dubai

Dubai museum.

Visit the Dubai Museum and witness colorful dioramas and informative historic exhibits. Located in the Al Fahidi Fort, it is the oldest existing building in the emirate and a must-visit to get a taste of old Dubai. Built in 1787, this fort was once the monarch's base, a fortified residence, and a weapons arsenal and prison, before being renovated during the reign of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

In 1971 (the same year the UAE was formed), the fort reopened as Dubai Museum. Showcasing Dubai’s history and its original heritage, you can get a glimpse of everyday life before the discovery of oil in the UAE. The galleries recreate historic Arab houses, mosques, souks and date farms, while also depicting scenes from the desert and marine life.

Coffee Museum

The Coffee Museum is located in one of Dubai's heritage hubs, Al Fahidi in Bur Dubai. It is an upscale classic concept with international standards in a small, cozy, relaxing atmosphere with a simple oriental setting. The museum showcases a wide selection of antique items illustrating regional and international coffee history and culture. It is a platform for experiencing different regional styles of coffee such as local Arabic style, Ethiopian style Japanese style, etc. The museum emphasizes coffee education for interested customers who wish to learn more about coffee, coffee roasting, and coffee brewing. The Coffee Museum also has a gift shop selling coffee-related gift items.

Coin Museum

The Coins Museum was converted to a Museum for Coins in 2004 and is situated in Bur Dubai's Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood next to the Ruler's Diwan. It has two storeys and was constructed out of coral, stone, plaster, sandalwood, leaves from palm trees, and teakwood.

Visitors to the museum will see coins from various historical periods. The museum has coin-specific display cabinets, magnification screens, and touch displays with computerized drop-down lists carrying full information about each coin.

Must-Try Restaurants in Dubai's Old Town

Arabian tea house.

As you step into the Arabian Tea House, the first Authentic Emirati Restaurant since 1997 (although old-timers would still prefer to call it the Basta Art Café), you are transported into the old times, authentic style with turquoise benches, white rattan chairs, lace curtains, and beautiful flowers, enjoying your cup of gahwa (traditional Arabic coffee) in the shade of an old tree and the languid air swoons around you. Arabian Tea House offers more than 150 different types of tea and drinks. It is a popular eatery among tourists, this cozy spot is also one of the best places in the city to try authentic Emirati cuisine.

XVA Café offers a range of Middle Eastern-inspired vegetarian options served in any of the three shaded courtyards. Since XVA Café opened it has been hailed as “Dubai’s best-kept secret”, serving freshly prepared vegetarian food. Be transported back to a simpler time with a signature mint lemonade in the traditional courtyard, serenaded by the rustle of leaves and the light chirping of birds.

Al Ustad Special Kabab

Al Ustad is a hidden gem but at the same time widely known for its authentic Persian Kabab! Very popular with the locals and the tourists as well, it boasts of serving some of the best fresh kebabs cuisines in the city. An absolute delight for all meat lovers out there. The portion sizes are generous and the prices are very good for Dubai standards.

Written by HiDubai Newswire

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16 Things to Do in Old Town Dubai

Looking for history in Dubai? Then head to Bur Dubai. Literally “Old Dubai”, this part of the city is a warren of traditional buildings, old cafes, tiny restaurants, and souks to get lost in.

Set along the banks of Dubai Creek, it’s here that the city’s trading heritage can still be strongly felt. Wander the streets, visit cultural sights, and stop by a few culinary hideouts — these are some highlights to put on your itinerary for Dubai’s old town.

Table of Contents

Exploring Dubai Old Town

Explore the al fahidi historical neighbourhood.

Also known as Al Bastakiya, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is one of the oldest parts of Dubai. It was originally established in the 1890s, first growing as a hub for trade by wealthy Persian traders who set up shop here looking to profit from Dubai’s booming pearl industry. In fact, the district took its name from the Iranian town of Bastak.

Sadly much of the district has been lost to development, but around half of what was originally, there remains. You’ll still find narrow lanes, old cafes, and cultural sights in this tiny pocket of the city, with repurposed buildings now housing art galleries and boutiques.

Visit the Coffee Museum

One of the many intriguing places to visit within the boundaries of Al Bastakiya is the Coffee Museum. As you may be able to tell, this is the place to come to learn all about the miracle bean that is coffee.

Over the years coffee has played a large part in the trade that’s passed through Dubai and has long been an important element of Arabic culture. Stopping by the coffee museum allows you to find out just how important coffee has been to Dubai (and the world), learn about different varieties and flavors of coffee from around the world, and even sample some local coffee too.

The setting, in a traditional building complete with wind towers and antique displays, really adds to the charm.

Learn More at Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

This non-profit cultural center is another one of Al Bastakiya’s sights that makes full use of the historic buildings of the district. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding provides an insight into the UAE’s history and regional traditions, aiming to break down cultural boundaries.

The center hosts a number of different events across the year, including Q&A sessions, workshops, and tea parties, where you can sample traditional cuisine and snacks. There’s a variety of different activities to get involved with, including learning Arabic.

Glimpse the Old Town from above at Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is exactly what it says it is: a frame. In fact, it’s the largest frame in the world, standing at just over 150 meters tall and over 95 meters wide. But it’s not just a giant art installation — this was actually the prize winner in a competition to design a new observation tower in Dubai.

But there’s something particularly unique about the Dubai Frame. At the top of the frame, an observation deck allows visitors to see not only modern Dubai, with all its skyscrapers, but also Bur Dubai and its wind towers and souks. There’s also a glass-bottom floor for extra thrills, while a museum within the Dubai Frame tells both the history and the potential future of the city too.

Refresh yourself at the Arabian Tea House

Once the house of a pearl trader, this historic structure has been lovingly restored and transformed into the Arabian Tea House. Designed to stay true to the heritage of Al Bastakiya, the interiors here are laden with traditional charm — think wicker furniture, splashes of blue, exposed stone walls adorned with photos of Old Dubai, and curving archways and elaborate columns.

Make sure to grab a seat on the elegant outdoor terrace and get ready to sample one of the best breakfasts in the city: a medley of beans, labneh, scrambled eggs, olives, and cheeses.

Go for a boat ride on the Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek has long been an integral thoroughfare for the city. It was from this convenient natural port that the city’s fortunes in terms of pearl fishing and trading took off. Although Dubai Marina in the modern part of the city may be packed with sparkling yachts, Dubai Creek retains its old-school charm.

Here, water taxis called abras still ply the waves, ferrying passengers between Deira and Bur Dubai. Locals still utilize the abras to get across the creek on their way to and from work, and at just 1 AED, it’s a very affordable way to experience some local life in the otherwise cutting-edge city.

Visit One of the Souks

Souks are traditional Arabic markets and have long been the backbone of merchants’ livelihoods in Dubai. But despite the many malls in the city, these marketplaces remain an important place for trade and commerce. One of the most famous in this old part of Dubai is the aptly named Gold Souk.

This iconic market is absolutely crammed full of gleaming golden jewelry and precious stones. By some estimates, it’s believed that the Gold Souk plays host to around ten tons of gold at any time.

This treasure trove is government regulated, which means all the gold or jewels here are authenticated. Haggling, however, is still part of the purchasing process, which means you can still snap up some relative bargains — if you’re good at it!

Shop for fabrics at Meena Bazaar

As well as gold, textiles, and fabrics have also passed through the mercantile districts of Dubai. Meena Bazaar, a traditionally Indian-run marketplace (it’s sometimes referred to as “Little India”), is the center for all things textile in the old town. Here you can explore alleys lined with colorful displays of accessories, shoes, and clothing, all on a backdrop of Dubai Creek.

But it’s not only about textiles. Among the many businesses on offer here you’ll also find shops selling ceramics, spice merchants, and the chance to pick up a few low-cost snacks to fuel your shopping: How about some fresh samosas and a cup of chai as a pick-me-up?

Eat your fill at Al Mallah

Opening its doors back in 1979, this low-key eatery has been a local favorite for Lebanese fare for decades. Particularly, Al Mallah serves up some serious shawarma, which is certainly saying something in a city where shawarma can be found all over the place.

Though shawarmas are the top menu item here, there’s a wide range of dishes to get stuck into — falafel, hummus, mixed grills, all manner of snacks and juices. It’s a no-fuss eatery but offers up good value for money and both air-conditioned indoor seating as well as a handful of shaded roadside tables.

Take a stroll down Hindi Lane

An estimated three million Hindus are living in the UAE. Many of those who call Dubai home regularly make their way to the only Hindu temple in the city, which is right here in the old town. It’s really two temples — one dedicated to Shiva, the other to Krishna — that make up this 1958 religious complex.

However, it’s the run-up to the complex, Hindi Lane, that will most intrigue visitors. The alleyway is packed full of vendors selling all manner of temple goods, flowers for use in puja ceremonies, statues, and even a few bakeries and other snack shops. Take your time when wandering down here and soak up this colorful side of Dubai.

Take a breather at Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Those looking for a slice of nature amid the modern metropolis of Dubai should make their way to this wetlands reserve. Located at the head of Dubai Creek, Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary (RAWS) is a conservation area designed to preserve a slice of Dubai Creek’s natural ecosystem.

It’s particularly for birdwatching, as a variety of species can often be found here (and sometimes in large numbers), including kingfishers, herons, and even flamingos. It’s good to head down here at low tide when birds can be found picking their way across the flats and mangroves. It’s free to enter, features three bird hides, and views of the skyscrapers in the distance.

Watch the world go by at the Dhow Wharfage

Though the trade along Dubai Creek was how the city initially became wealthy, the days of dhows packing the waterway are now a thing of the past. However, remnants of this mercantile heritage can still be seen at the Dhow Wharfage.

Simply head south from the Spice Souk along the water’s edge and you’ll come across an array of wooden boats, painted in a rainbow of colors. These boats may seem like heritage pieces but they are, in fact, still working, zipping between the cities of the Emirates, as well as Pakistan, India, and Iran. Stay for a while and you may catch sight of an interesting array of cargo being unloaded onto the waterfront promenade.

Check out Dubai Museum at Al Fahidi Fort

Al Fahidi Fort is the oldest building still standing in the city. It was built back in 1787 to protect the settlement that would eventually become Dubai — mainly from raids by neighboring, hostile tribes. For a long time, it was the fortified residence of the ruler of Dubai and has since been used as a weapons arsenal and a prison.

Today the square-shaped structure and its defensive towers, constructed from coral and mortar, still stand strong. The entranceway is flanked by two cannons, harking back to its days as a military garrison.

However, inside it is no longer a fort or a residence but instead plays host to Dubai Museum. Opening in 1971, the museum offers an insight into Emirati culture, with a number of different antiques and artifacts on display from across the region.

Admire the architecture of Diwan Mosque

Built in 1985, Diwan Mosque may not be the oldest, the biggest, or even the most beautiful mosque in Dubai, however, it does offer a fascinating chance to gain an insight into Islamic culture in Old Dubai. Though externally quite simple in terms of architecture, it does feature a curiously squashed onion dome and a graceful minaret.

Non-Muslim visitors are not usually allowed to enter, but there is a cultural tour available which is run through the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. The tour takes visitors into the mosque itself, with guides explaining the architecture and significance of the space, before welcoming them back to the cultural center for tea and conversation about the mosque and Islamic culture.

Transport Yourself to Ancient Egypt at Wafi City

Wafi City is more than just a mall. At this comprehensive complex of contemporary facilities, you’ll find private residences, eateries, a hotel, and even a nightclub — and many shops, of course. The most intriguing thing about Wafi City is that it is themed in Ancient Egypt.

This theme park-esque mall complex, complete with pyramids, a replica of Karnak, and statues of pharaohs, is a fun place to spend some time in Old Dubai. When it opened in 1991 it was actually one of the first malls in Dubai, and marks a start of a wholly new and very modern heritage for the city. Despite its age, Wafi City is an attractive haven for shoppers; the stained-glass pyramid-shaped atrium is particularly impressive.

Gorge on South Indian cuisine at Calicut Paragon

If you’re a fan of South Indian fare, and you’re looking for a budget-friendly bite to eat, then Calicut Paragon should definitely be on your food itinerary of Old Dubai. They have a few locations across Dubai, but the one in Karama Market is the original and the best.

Despite its affordability, the quality of food here is top-notch, which just makes Calicut Paragon even better. You’ll be able to sample a whole range of dishes, from fish curries to biryani, with thali sets served on banana leaves a particular highlight. The laid-back spot is also perfect for vegetarians thanks to the many vegetable plates on the menu.

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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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A guide to old Dubai, from Islamic crafts to culinary walks

In the shadow of the world’s tallest skyscrapers, centuries-old neighbourhoods and intimate cultural experiences can be found in this Emirati city — reminding visitors of its humbler roots.

In a place of superlatives — highest, biggest, priciest — why settle for simple pleasures? Dubai has long been seen as a fun-loving, unabashedly ambitious city, often overshadowing the UAE’s more serious-minded capital of Abu Dhabi. It’s a place where you can swim above clouds in 360-degree infinity pools or quaff cocktails in billowing beach cabanas, and it’s this ‘City of Gold’ most travellers come for. A winter sun utopia, it dazzles with opulence and novelty, from the soaring architecture and dancing fountains of Downtown to Jumeirah’s luxury hotels and the Marina’s million-pound yachts.  

It may seem like it all rose fully formed, mirage-like, from the surrounding dunes; indeed, it only took a generation for this improbable desert metropolis to spring from the ground after the 1960s — a feat fuelled by new oil-funded wealth. But the city’s roots stretch deeper, and to far humbler beginnings.  

Sipping chai from a street vendor’s vat and inhaling spices in a warren of souks: these are the joys of ‘Old Dubai’, in its northernmost reaches. In the 16th century, this once impoverished port became a pearl-trading hub and attracted a global diaspora around its Creek, a natural harbour splicing the disticts of Deira and Bur Dubai. Merchants from across the Middle East and beyond brought recipes and traditions to this medley of markets and mosques. Today, the scent of slow-roasted lamb still wafts from Afghani restaurants, sewing machines thrum in Pakistani tailor shops and heaps of Omani frankincense are swapped for a few dirhams — the deal sealed with a shukran, the Arabic for ‘thank you’.  

Between the old and new is a city that’s maturing. There’s a cultural centre highlighting the little-known warmth of the Emirati way of life, while intimate supper clubs, independent art galleries and homely wellness studios provide an antidote to the palatial luxury. In the alleyways of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, part of Bur Dubai, the ancient coral and sandalwood mansions of minted pearl traders have been converted into courtyard cafes, artisanal shops and delightfully niche museums specialising in coins, coffee and calligraphy.  

Beyond Al Fahidi’s minarets and wind towers — chimney-like structures used for ventilation — you might spy a distant flash: the silver spire of the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa, just a 20-minute taxi ride southwards. That’s Dubai’s real kick. It still chases those superlatives, but it treasures the small gems, too, and is all the richer for it.  

See & Do

Traditional Souks Haggle in Bur Dubai’s Old Souk for hand-woven fabrics, raw silk and delicate laces, then head across the Creek for more perusing at Deira’s neighbouring Spice and Gold Markets. Cross the waterway with an abra boat: it’s the traditional way, and a one-way trip costs just 1 AED (£0.22). Carrying bags laden with Emirati dates and Iranian saffron, you’ll feel like a merchant of old.

Frying Pan Adventures Led by locals, these culinary walks of Old Dubai take in the kind of hole-in-the-wall restaurant and unassuming street food stalls you’d have a hard time finding alone. Try sizzling Indian pakoras (vegetable fritters), syrupy Palestinian knafeh pastries and other recipes from Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and beyond. For lighter bites, there’s a new Old Dubai Quickie Snacking Tour. Kids go free May to September.

Free beaches Dubai may be famous for it flashy beach clubs, but the city has free-to-access stretches of sand, too, each with its own unique appeal. Aptly named Kite Beach offers watersports including paddleboarding and kitesurfing, while The Beach , JBR is flanked by designer boutiques. For seafront jogging with skyscraper views, make for Palm West Beach , the promenade on the ‘trunk’ of the man-made, palm-shaped Palm Jumeirah island.  

High-end views Dubai is synonymous with sky-high attractions, from the Burj Khalifa’s 1,483ft At the Top observation deck to Dubai Frame , where a glass-floored walkway takes in views of the city old and new. Or opt for Aura Skypool , the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool, which has swim sessions, yoga classes and boozy brunches suspended nearly 700ft above Palm Jumeirah.    

Hero Boats From yacht rentals to sunset cruises in heritage-style dhows, there are countless ways to enjoy the Persian Gulf. Half jet ski, half speedboat, these nippy two-seaters can reach up to 30m/h for a thrilling look at the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah.

Platinum Heritage Escape to the desert in an open-top Land Rover, ideal for spotting rare Arabian oryx amid an ochre ocean of dunes. An hour’s drive from the city, Platinum Heritage’s Bedouin camp offers a glimpse at life before Dubai’s oil boom, with guided astronomy, henna painting and more.

Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding Located in Al Fahidi, this cultural centre encourages frank conversations with Emirati locals, where no topic is off limits. Book a traditional meal or workshop on Islamic crafts, part of a wider programme of guided tours and mosque visits.

Alserkal Avenue Located in cool Al Quoz, this western district has over 70 art galleries, independent boutiques and artisanal studios set in former industrial warehouses. Visit Oo La Lab for bespoke perfumes, The Edit for one-off fashions or Iwan Maktabi for modern Islamic artworks.  

Lucky Kids Trading Don’t be fooled by its name: this emporium in Al Fahidi sells great-value Asian and Middle Eastern clothes for all ages, from Indian lehenga skirts and batik-print Malaysian kaftans to Sri Lankan saris and more. Be sure to ask for a complimentary cup of chai while you browse.  

Souk Madinat   Jumeirah Haggling is expected in most of Dubai’s souks, but for a more laid-back experience with fixed prices this boutique market is a popular compromise. It’s a modern take on an old-time bazaar, complete with stands and stalls, winding alleys and wood-framed walkways, and features jewellery, art and curio shops galore.

Arabian Tea House Tables are arranged around a courtyard at this Al Fahidi institution, open since 1997. Rattan chairs and lace curtains set the scene for the traditional meal to come: cardamom-spiced gahwa coffee, biryani-style chicken machboos and plump shrimps still sizzling from the coals.  

Seva Located a few blocks back from Jumeirah Public Beach, this wellness studio has a plant-based, health-minded garden restaurant with rustic wooden tables and leafy plants. Book a yoga or meditation class, then recharge with fruit-filled acai bowls or a coconut ceviche with mango and fresh lime.

Bubbalicious Brunch Of all Dubai’s brunches, this family-friendly buffet has got to be the most lavish. Held every Saturday at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina , it’s an all-you-can-eat extravaganza of sushi, curry, mezze and more round-the-world dishes, with table-side entertainment and free-flowing bubbly.  

Rove Downtown Buck the trend for Downton’s five-star opulence with the Rove, a budget-friendly option around a 10-minute-walk from Dubai Mall. The pared-back rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, while the common areas for working or lounging pop with plenty of colour and design quirks. As well as a Burj Khalifa-facing swimming pool, there’s a free shuttle bus to the beach.  

XVA Art Hotel Set in the former home of one of Dubai’s wealthiest families, this boutique hotel epitomises Al Fahidi’s Old Arabia charm. It’s centred around tree-shaded courtyards, where the cafe serves fattoush salads, mujaddara (rice, lentils and onions) and more vegetarian bites. Contemporary Middle Eastern art punctuates all spaces, from the on-site gallery to 15 bespoke guest rooms.  

One & Only One Za’abeel Shaped like a giant ‘H’, this self-styled ‘vertical resort’ is the most outlandish addition to Dubai’s skyline in recent years. There’s a three-storey wellness area, 12 dining options and the UAE’s longest infinity pool, while guest rooms pay homage to the surrounding Za’abeel (‘white sand’) district with neutral tones and sand motifs.

After Hours

Dubai opera This 2,000-seat opera house hosts some of the finest names in classical music, notably talents from across the Middle East — as well as concerts, plays and ballets thanks to a flexible floorplan. Come early for a tour of the dhow-shaped building, with backstage access to dressing and trap rooms.

Ce La Vi Downtown’s glittering towers seem close enough to touch from this roof terrace: up on the 54th floor of Address Sky View hotel, it’s pure Dubai glamour. Sit at the Skybar, where the order of choice is a zesty-sour ‘shiso margarita’ (tequila, yuzu, agave and sumac).  

Sunset kayaking Watch as the city skyline becomes a silhouette against the pink sky on a sunset paddling excursion. Crystal Clear Watersports has glass-bottomed kayaks fitted with yellow neon lighting; as the skyscrapers’ lights flicker to life, so do yours.

Like a Local

Social meals Supper clubs in Dubai reflect the city’s diaspora. Nicaraguan cuisine is served by candlelight at Girl and the Goose , while K’iin whips up a Mexican menu in an open kitchen. Or keep an eye out for Eye Heart Rabbit , a wandering Middle Eastern pop-up.  

Evening strolls Creek-side Al Seef is a new-build homage to ancient Arabia — a modern district with palm-thatched roofs and brass-studded doors. Its sikkas (alleyways) come alive at night, especially on Fridays, when locals socialise over mint lemonade.  

Down time Hotels in Dubai offer seriously flashy outdoor fun. Emiratis in the know rely on discounted passes like Groupon to access these five-star facilities for the day; Fairmont the Palm , for example, has several pools, a white sand beach and a watersports centre.

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The 10 Best Things To See and Do in Dubai's Old Quarter

There’s so much to see and do in Dubai – from going up the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa , to skiing indoors at Ski Dubai. Yet Dubai used to be a village of fishermen who lived around a creek. For those who wish to see what life was like before the city began its rapid growth, Dubai’s Old Quarter is the ideal place to visit and learn more about the history and tradition of this Emirate .

1. visit the gold souk.

2. Walk around Al Bastakiya Quarter

Architectural Landmark

The historic quarter of Al Bastakiya dates back to the 19th century and is the oldest residential quarter in Dubai. Visitors can walk around the maze-like streets and admire the original architecture of this neighbourhood established by merchants. The buildings were completed with wind towers, evidence of a time before air conditioning. These days, the quarter is no longer the residence of merchants using the Dubai Creek for trade. However, it is populated with several attractions for visitors, like art galleries and traditional retailers.

3. Have a traditional lunch in an Arabic tea house

The Basta Art Café is a charming café in the heart of the Old Quarter – offering a comfortable and chic atmosphere in the traditional buildings of Al Bastakiya. This is a perfect spot to try typical Arabic food and further indulge in the region’s culture. Also known as the Arabian Tea House , it has an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy regional dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner – giving visitors the opportunity to get a taste of Dubai in one of its most historic sights.

5. Souvenir shop at the souk

There’s plenty of choice in Dubai when it comes to buying souvenirs for those back home . The city offers a variety of traditional items – anything from the typical gifts such as magnets and mugs to more unique items such as camel-milk soap and Emirati clothing . The souk is a fantastic place to shop for all kinds of souvenirs for the whole family. Unlike stores in malls, shopping at this traditional market gives tourists the opportunity to haggle and get the best possible price.

6. Shop at the spice souk

7. Take a one-dirham boat ride across the Dubai Creek

Natural Feature

The Dubai Creek was where life in the city started – from the fishermen to the merchants, this saltwater canal is a vital piece of Dubai’s history. The creek expands into the Persian Gulf and was one of the main channels for trade for the small city that has now grown into a major metropolis. Visitors and residents can cross the Dubai Creek for a mere one dirham (£0.22) in a shared abra , a traditional boat that operates as a water taxi. This allows people to go from Al Bastakiya to the souks.

8. Admire local art at the XVA Gallery

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

9. Visit the Coffee Museum

10. Watch local workers pack the ships with imports and exports

Historical Landmark

There are few scenes visitors can witness nowadays in Dubai that will better depict the city’s past than watching the local workers pack the trade ships. The packages are stocked in old-style dhows – these wooden boats were used to trade in the past and still do to this day. There’s nothing modern or sophisticated about the boats, or the packing procedure, providing a clear contrast to life elsewhere in this shining modern Emirate.

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Dubai Old Town: Discover Dubai’s Historic Sites

Travel , United Arab Emirates | February 12, 2016

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If you’re visiting Dubai, the endless tower blocks and record breaking feats of architecture could fool you into thinking the emirate has no discoverable roots. The perfect remedy is to spend a day exploring Dubai’s old town, the area around Dubai Creek

You’ll find that far away from the malls and millionaires; merchants and traders still go about their business at Dubai Creek, which flows between Deira and Bur Dubai and is the beating heart of ‘old Dubai’.

Spilling out into the Arabian Gulf, the Creek served as Dubai’s main artery when the emirate was little more than a fishing port – way before Sheikh Zayed Road was built.

On the western side of the Dubai Creek and Diera in Bur Dubai, you’ll find Dubai’s old quarter, which will show you that Dubai isn’t as soulless as the skyscrapers would have you believe.

This is the area with some of old Dubai’s most famous tourist sites with historic weight, like the gold and spice souks and the cheapest tourist attraction in Dubai: the abra ride.

Hope you’ve got your bartering hat on, we’re going for an adventure into the UAE’s culture and heritage…

Best Places To Visit In Dubai’s ‘Old Town’

Create your own old Dubai tour with my guide to the most interesting places to visit in Dubai for travellers keen to immerse themselves in the UAE’s history.

Watch my full-length Dubai expat vlog on Youtube

1. Dubai Spice Souk

The area around the Bur Dubai side of the creek is a smorgasbord for the senses; with sights, smells and shiny stuff jumping out at you from every nook and cranny.

The DubaiSpice Souk is immediately in front of the bus stop and across the road from the creek. You can probably just follow your nose though. Heady aromas will lead you into the ramshackle narrow lanes, where you’ll be hit by the cries of traders urging you to try some of their stock.

A huge array of spices and seasonings are displayed in vividly hued heaps outside each shop in the souk. You can run cardamon, saffron and endless other unidentifiable exotic spices through your fingers while you barter with the traders.

The burning incense on every stall makes the spice souk even more pungent, while the contrasting colours of the dried rosebuds, cinnamon sticks and cloves make for beautiful photographs. If you’re looking for beautiful places for photography in Dubai, the spice souk is a must-visit!

Everything for sale at the spice souk has come straight off a dhow just steps away at Dubai Creek, where cargo boats ship goods from Pakistan or Iran or India. Bring cash – cards aren’t really accepted.

You can book a tour of Dubai’s souks with an English speaking local guide who will take you for real Arabic coffee – check prices and availability here .

2. Deira Gold Souk

When you’ve exhausted your nostrils at the Spice Souk, head over to the wooden latticed archway of the Gold Souk, where you can wander the labyrinth of shops at your wallet’s peril, taking in the staggering display of decadence and gaudiness.

The Dubai Gold Souk famously has over 25 tonnes of gold on display at any given time, making it the largest gold market in the Middle East. 

Along with the elegant gold jewellery, trinkets and treasures, you can also spot some slightly more elaborate pieces – like this Indian bridal set.

Or perhaps you fancy this very becoming jewelled panther? Each to their own and all that.

3. ‘The Big Souk’

In the streets and alleyways around this part of Bur Dubai, you’ll find shops selling everything you can imagine, want or need.

Al Souk al-Kabeer is a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts, especially pashminas in the textile souk.

Take some time to wander the area.

4. Heritage House

Once you’ve exhausted your haggling skills in the souks, wander over to Al Ahmadiyya Street and you’ll find a sand coloured renovated 1890 courtyard house. It once belonged to Sheikh Ahmed bin Dalmouk, a rich pearl trader who founded Dubai’s first school.

In Heritage House you can see cool vintage photos of Dubai plus a diorama of an Arabic Majilis, which is a traditional meeting room.

You can read more about how Majilis bring people in the Middle East together in my guide to more cultural things to do in Dubai .

5. Al-Ahmadiya School

Next to Heritage House is Dubai’s first school , which opened to boys in 1912. The security guard made me sit for a really embarrassing picture in the old schoolroom, pretending to be a pupil. I’m not posting it, sorry.

The school takes two minutes to walk around and could definitely do with some more entertaining displays but it’s interesting to visit.

6. Dubai Creek

The Dubai Creek served the British on their routes to India and East Africa. It winds its way for 15km from the mouth at the port to the Ras al Khor bird sanctuary on the desert edge of Dubai and was integral in establishing Dubai as the centre of commerce it is today.

Yup, from an historic pearl diving port to a mall with an actual indoor ski slope… that’s Dubai for ya.

Whether you choose to stay on dry land and have a stroll along the paved promenade or take to the saltwater on one of the abras or dhows to Deira Old Souk Station; there’s always something to see on the Creek itself.

From tiny fishing boats; water taxis to modern day yachts, vehicles of every calibre slip past each other under the shadows of the Deira Twin Towers, and the creek encompasses old and new in a clash of colour and sound.

‘Abra’ water taxis from Bur Dubai to Deira and back cost just 1 AED each way, criss-crossing the water from dusk until dawn. Pile on and you could find yourself squeezed in between an African woman in flamboyant prints and an Arab man in a brilliant white dishdasha. It’s something of a cultural experience.

Watch cargo boats being loaded and unloaded with everything under the sun for a true insight into Dubai’s past.

For the romantics, a dhow cruise along the creek at sunset is wonderfully atmospheric. If you’re in Deira after dark, bag yourself a table on a dinner cruise boat and watch the area’s nightlife as you dine.

7. Bastikaya

Across the water in Bur Dubai lies the Bastakiya quarter, where wealthy merchants once lived. The area is remarkably well preserved and there are plenty of boutiques and cafes to keep you sustained as you wander around the labyrinth of 19th century streets. You’ll also find a handful of art galleries here, such as the XVA Gallery .

The buildings have wind towers to keep their occupants cool in the days before air conditioning.

8. Dubai Museum

Dubai’s museum is houses in the oldest building in the emirate: Al Fahidi Fort. Dating back to 1847, the fort offers visitors an immersive walk through Dubai’s past today.

The best tours of Old Dubai

How to get to dubai’s ‘old town’.

Although a little out of the way from the iconic Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai and the sandy yellow towers of Jumeirah; it’s easy to get to visit the cultural attractions in Dubai. Start your day exploring Dubai’s historic sites at the northern side of the creek, which is where Deira is located.

I took a C09 bus from Al Rigga Metro Station. You can also get the Metro to Al Ras Station, or cross the Creek itself in an abra.

Remember that the weekend is Friday and Saturday in the UAE. Museums and many shops in Dubai’s historical district are closed in the morning and stay open late.

If you’re looking to save money on Dubai’s historic attractions, take a look at the Dubai Explorer Pass .

Places to stay in Dubai’s Old Town

The below map shows hotels and accommodation near Dubai’s popular historic places.

What to wear in Bur Dubai

While Dubai is a Muslim country, it’s the most tolerant of its neighbours and it’s not unusual to see hot pants and minidresses in the clubs and beach bars around the areas popular with expats and tourists. However, it’s still important that you dress in a way that doesn’t offend when you visit Dubai – especially in the areas with a predominantly Arabic and Asian population.

My advice, as a young woman who lived and worked in Dubai for 14 months, is to err on the side of caution when it comes to your outfit for Dubai’s historic district.

It’s best to cover your shoulders and knees. A pashmina comes in handy – you can buy one in the souk!

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Did you know about these historic places to visit in Dubai, or did you think it was all Versace and Veuve Clicquot? Leave me a comment with your impressions. I’d also love to hear from you guys!

You can follow my adventures since I left Dubai on Instagram, my Facebook page and Twitter . I’m also on Pinterest and I have a Youtube channel .

Head Elsewhere says

February 12, 2016 at 9:34 am

I love all these port pics. I’ve never been to Dubai but you certainly presented it in a much more charming light than others. Hope you’re transitioning nicely 🙂

Ami Bhat says

February 15, 2016 at 4:34 pm

I have been here so many times as I was staying in Abu Dhabi and for some reason, enjoyed the place for its quaint shops. However, was a little more partial to Bur Dubai

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Top Things to Do in Old Dubai

• April 7, 2020
• passionfordubai

Table of Contents Hide

The city’s creek gets a makeover.

• Ride an Abra at the Dubai Creek 

Visit the Dubai Museum

• Try Camel Milk Ice-Cream 

Savor local cuisine at Arabian Tea House

Explore the al fahidi historical neighborhood, buy spices at the spice souk.

• All the Gold you can buy at the Gold Souk 
• Exotic scents of the Perfume Souk 

Dubai Heritage Village

• Quench your thirst with Coconut Water 

Summing Up:

Check out our dubai itineraries.

Oil is what pummeled Dubai into the shimmering jewel of a destination it is today. There is so much variety in the old and new parts of Dubai that one can’t even think of fitting it all in on one short getaway.  

One has to essentially live in Dubai and still there won’t be enough time to see and do all you want.  

It is mind-boggling when you realize that the opulent and glitzy emirate state with its soaring skyscrapers, its water parks and gigantic shopping malls was once just a small dusty fishing settlement, but that is part of its charm – it’s rags to riches story.  

Discover the Top Things to Do in Old Dubai

Ride an abra at the dubai creek  .

As a new visitor to the city, a trip to the museum can be insightful indeed, and as you travel around Dubai, what you saw in the museum can help you understand the way the city has developed. The doors of the interesting museum open at 8.30 in the morning.  

Try Camel Milk Ice-Cream  

Anybody who is truly honest will tell you that food when you’re on holiday is a top priority. When you’re in a foreign city, one of the top things to do in Old Dubai is to try all their mouth-watering and eye-catching treats and be utterly wowed. It’s exactly what the wonderful Arabian Tea House can do for you in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. This is a place where the time-honored custom of welcoming visitors as old friends make places like this the finest. You may hear it also being called the Al Bastakiya.  

As you step into the Tea House the old-time atmosphere is what makes it so darn popular. It’s full of paintings by local artists and you’ll feel as though you’re on a magic carpet ride as you enjoy a cuppa gahwa outdoors. This is traditional Arabic coffee. The owner, Ali Al Rais, has a passion for tea, developed from a stay in Sri Lanka and Yorkshire.   He started this wonderful tea house with the idea for people to come and enjoy the delicious tea time treats and to simply enjoy some catchup time with family and friends.  

The neighborhood always has some or other exciting events taking place as well and the Sikka Art Fair is one. It’s an annual art- and cultural festival in Dubai and it has lots of exhibitions, live music, storytelling, workshops and activities for the whole family.  

You don’t even have to be a cook to know that spices hold many of the secrets of great cooking – offering a subtle taste and aroma to all kinds of dishes. When in Dubai you’ll have to make time to visit the spice souk where you will find in the region of 150 small retailers displaying a huge variety of spices in burlap sacks, on racks and in baskets.  

You’ll find black pepper to cinnamon, cloves, curry powder to paprika, vanilla, turmeric, ginger, mustard and much more. It’s not all though, because you’ll find other items that you want but which you never dreamed you’d find. Dried cucumbers, sumac, ras el hanout, saffron, preserved lemons, teas, henna kits, basmati rice, dried fruit and more, all there to give you a taste of the good life.  

All the Gold you can buy at the Gold Souk  

Dubai is no doubt an exotic word and the very essence of it is perfectly captured at the Gold Souk, found in Deira. Visiting the souks is surely one of the top things to do in Old Dubai. These souks are the most fascinating places that just have to be on any visitor’s itinerary, and it is open 7 days a week.  

The souk is made up of different covered alleys, and even though gold ornaments and accessories are what everyone wants to see, there are other fashionable items too. You can also buy trendy sunglasses, belts, scarves and other items that tourists love .

The gold souk is a huge, sprawling bazaar full of gold- and other traders dealing in diamonds and other precious gems. The market has expanded dramatically over the years but it still maintains it’s typical ‘old-feel’ market atmosphere and charm. At the gold souk, gold can be purchased at much lower prices if you know how to negotiate with the sellers.  

Exotic scents of the Perfume Souk  

Whether you’re looking for warm, spicy perfumes or lighter, fresher fragrances, whatever you choose, the tantalizing aromas are going to elevate your mood.

People from all walks of life love taking a trip down memory lane because it speaks of a more romantic, simple, enchanting way of life. The Dubai Heritage Village in Al Shindagha Historical Neighborhood, close to the Diving Village, offers just that. It gives you a glimpse into the traditional way of life complete with old houses and buildings.  

You may hear the village also being referred to as Hatta Village, but the traditional Dubai lifestyle depicted here will intrigue you as it’s all about traditional mud houses and ancient mosques.

This historical area used to be Dubai’s trading hub during the romantic period of pearl diving. The area along Dubai Creek has undergone tremendous change and Al Seef today is an extraordinary place to wander and take in the huge variety of shops and restaurants complete with outdoor spaces for music and cultural attractions. It is a sheer leisure area, while being relaxed and laid back, the kind of place where you can come with family and friends.

The Al Seef Marina allows you to enjoy modern and old together and enjoy an evening meal while you watch dhows glide along the unique waterway. The warm and friendly atmosphere is guaranteed to entertain locals and holidaymakers alike.  

Quench your thirst with Coconut Water  

Coconut water is tasty, it’s good for you and it will quench your thirst. As the coconut matures and ripens into solid white flesh, coconut water forms naturally in the fruit. You’ll find fresh coconut water in most of the cafes and grocery stores in Dubai, although so many people prefer to drink coconut water straight from the coconut. Hower you prefer your coconut water in Dubai, it’s low in carbohydrates and sodium compared to your regular sodas.

There are loads of attractions in Dubai – it’s why it is so impressive. Some might say it’s because of the sheer opulence but there are also top things to do in Old Dubai that delighted tourists have discovered. Old Dubai’s amazing history is well documented through its numerous hotels, parks and attractions and places of cultural interest. It offers so much to the tourist looking for a fun-filled time.  

Not so long ago, Dubai was a quiet port and fishing town, but today it is very glitzy and glamorous. If you want to   try a scintillating trip in the old or new parts of Dubai, the city has a bewildering array of offerings.  

The city already has the magic within it, and its for you to find out how to go about finding that magic.  

Join our dedicated DUBAI TRAVEL PLANNING Group on Facebook – where you can ask questions about your upcoming trip to Dubai and find inspiration about traveling to Dubai.  Please join us to prepare yourself for you trip in the near future.

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Elena Sergeeva has an accomplished career in tourism marketing and has worked for top Greek and international tourism brands. Elena has worked with luxury hotel brands managing business development and foreign market opportunities in lucrative markets including Russia. Elena is the founder of several professional blogs including Passion for Greece, Passion for Hospitality and Passion for Dubai. Her website development and blogging work has been featured in travel industry and Greek major media outlets.

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Top 9 Things to do in Old Dubai

by Paula McInerney | Apr 2, 2016 | DESTINATIONS , Dubai | 16 comments

Often referred to as the heart and soul of Dubai, these are the Top 9 Things to do in Old Dubai, Bur Dubai, and Deira. Visiting these areas will show you a lot more about the Dubai, one of the major cities in the United Arab Emirates, but not the capital city. This honour goes to Abu Dhabi.

Dubai is well known for its magnificent and luxurious high-rise buildings and its state of the art malls, but to discover the real Dubai, and to understand why it has prospered, go to Old Dubai. Historically, Dubai Creek divided the city into two main sections – Deira and Bur Dubai. Bur Dubai, the historic district, is located on the western side of the Dubai Creek and Diera .

The Practicalities before you Visit Dubai, and particularly Old Dubai.

• 1 The Practicalities before you Visit Dubai, and particularly Old Dubai.
• 2.1 The Best Things to See and Do in Dubai’s Old Quarter
• 2.2 1. Gold Souk
• 2.3 2. Grand Souk Deira
• 2.4 3. Dubai Creek
• 2.5 4. Dubai Heritage Village
• 2.6 5. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s House
• 2.7 6. Dubai Old Souk
• 2.8 7. Dubai Museum
• 2.9 8. Bastakiya Quarter
• 2.10 9. What to Eat in Old Dubai
• 2.11 Where to stay in Dubai

Statement from the Dubai government : Dubai is tolerant and cosmopolitan, and all visitors are welcome. However, Islam is a way of life in the city, and therefore, tourists should adopt a certain level of cultural and religious sensitivity for the duration of their stay.

• Keep covered, particularly women. This is where a sarong will be very handy to keep your shoulders covered, and where necessary your head. The sarong – a unisex travel essential.  Soft cotton trousers or a longer skirt are also advisable. If you are staying at a resort, you can wear shorts, etc., but it is ill-advised outside of a resort.
• Dubai can get very hot. Regardless, you must be respectful of the country that you have chosen to visit. Cotton is the answer, and so is respect.
• No public displays of affection. Keep your kissing and hand holding to your hotel room.
• For gay travellers, you need to be very careful of any form of PDA.Only drink inside your hotel, or at a restaurant.
• Do not swear…at all. Even on social media. You might like to read this. Swearing on WhatsApp in the UAE could carry £45,000 fine or jail
• Don’t even think about drugs.
• If visiting on a Friday, please note that it is a weekend in the UAE, and most museums and retail shops in the Historical District are closed in the morning and open late in the afternoon. Opening hours also change during Islamic holidays and on the Holy Month of Ramadan.  Don’t Eat in Public During Ramadan .
• Taxis in Dubai are cheap. Use them. There are ladies and family taxis driven by females These pink taxis are very popular, and couples and families can take them too.

Flickr image:  Alex Berger

Despite these above practicalities, Dubai is an intensely interesting place. Yes you will want to see its excessive luxuries, and you can hardly miss them, but to get a very real feel of Dubai, you need to go to Old Dubai, Bur Dubai, and Deira.

Top 9 Things to Do in Old Dubai, Bur Dubai, and Deira

We recommend the  Historic Old Dubai and Dubai Souks 2 Hour Walking Tour

The Best Things to See and Do in Dubai’s Old Quarter

Let’s go Exploring Old Dubai.

1. Gold Souk

The Gold Souk is a labyrinth of covered walkways. This traditional Arabian marketplace has over 300 jewelry shops. This is where you can buy jewelry at the cheapest rate and still haggle for a much better price. The current price of gold is advertised all over the souk. Whether you are buying or not, this is a must see Souk in Old Dubai.

2. Grand Souk Deira

Once known as Al Souk al-Kabeer, “The Big Souk” this is once the largest and most important markets in Deira. Many do claim that it’s cleaned up appearance has taken away from its charm, but it is still an amazing place to wander to see and smell all of the Herbs and Spices, and to admire the amazing textile market

3. Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek is a saltwater creek that was so important in Dubai’s history. The creek served as a fishing area, a pearling site and a gateway for traders before oil was discovered. Now, Dubai Creek is a top tourist attraction in Old Dubai. You must take an abra, the old wooden boat at Deira Old Souk Station. The short boat ride will transport you to the other side of the Creek to Bur Dubai. It is a unique experience.

You should also take a dhow boat ride on Deira Creek and see the Old Dubai at night time while dining on traditional Emirati fare.

4. Dubai Heritage Village

Located in the Al Shindagha district is the well-preserved traditional Arabian village. The Dubai Heritage and Diving Village will show you the history of Dubai as a fishing and pearling nation.

5. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s House

This is the residence of Sheikh Saeed, the grandfather of current Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, from 1912 until his death in 1958. It is now a museum where important documents and photographs are displayed. You can do this tour.

6. Dubai Old Souk

This souq is another fabulous and frenetic Arabian marketplace. The traditionally covered souk houses hundreds of retail shops selling Arabian textile, footwear, trinkets and food. It is fun, touristy, and novel. Haggle because the Emirati enjoy it.

7. Dubai Museum

The Dubai Museum is situated in Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in Dubai. This is another opportunity to see Dubai’s rich history and all its antiquities.

8. Bastakiya Quarter

The Bastakiya Quarter is a historical neighborhood that lies along the bank of the Dubai Creek, and a favourite place to visit.. This is where the rich merchants lived, and beautifully preserved traditional Arabian homes with barjeels or wind catchers , are well worth seeing. There are a maze of the narrow alleys in Bastakiya district but a lot of great finds, like unique shops, cafes and art galleries.

9. What to Eat in Old Dubai

– Eat Shawarma – the most eaten food across this country, must be tried with Hummus – Try a Camel Burger – Have a pot of tea at Arabian Tea – Taste Al Harees – a famous dish of UAE with highly exotic taste. It is made up of meat and wheat. – Al Machboos -a traditional dish of UAE. The main ingredients are rice, meat, onion and dried lemon.

Old Dubai, Bur Dubai, and Deira are a fantastic juxtaposition to the luxury of the most modern Dubai. The fact that they sit comfortably with each other will keep you scratching your head. These Top 9 Things to do in Old Dubai will be a perfect way to get your head around this city.

Where to stay in Dubai

We stayed at the Radisson Blu Hotel on Deira Creek and could not fault it. Here are the latest prices and reviews .

These are the Top 9 Things to do in Old Dubai. Can you add some more?

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16 Comments

I don’t know why you say it is “ill-advised” to wear shorts or uncovered shoulders outside a resort?!? I’ve been to Dubai a couple of times and never had issues by dressing like I do in any European city during summer time. Except for visiting a mosque, for example, but this is perfectly understandable and it is a standard everywhere around the world.

I think it is called respect. I did say that in resorts there is a more liberal approach, but being culturally sensitive when you travel is never a bad thing.

Great tips here – thank you! I wouldn’t have realized that there could be repercussions just from texting curse words. I found you through the Weekend Travel Inspiration link up.

Never cuss in Dubai. I wasn’t aware either, and I think my husband thought i would enter up in prison.

Dubai is always marketed as the perfect shopping destination so that is the only thing I imagine it to be. It is good to see that there is a whole lot more to it

I was worried about that too. Luckily there is a huge amount more to see and discover.

Great article Paula! Dubai is a fascinating place to visit and if you are respectful of the culture and the people you’ll never find anything but kindness.

I agree, we found the Emirati’s to be lovely and welcoming people. I think no matter where you go, you need to show respect for a culture.

I was glad to see Bastakiya on your list, as it was our favourite place in Dubai. We much prefer the old to the new.

We like seeing both the old and the new in Dubai, it is such juxtaposition.

Super! I’m thinking about jetting off to Dubai for a week. In need of some sunshine, and preferably a tan 🙂

Dubai is one of those places that is a better place to visit than what i thought, so i do recommend it.

Visiting Dubai and Abu Dhabi gave me insight into a completely different way of life than I was used to in Canada. It was enlightening and beautiful. I think I was there in 2008, so I’m sure there have been many changes. Would love to go back!

We are really looking forward to re-visit Dubai, there are many more things to discover.

We haven’t been to Dubai yet, so thank you for enticing us to another area through your blog. Great photos to tease us too, especially the cover picture, feeding my fetish for shoes!

Dubai is an excellent place to visit.

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• City Sightseeing
• Dinner Cruise
• Luxury Yachts
• Things to do in Dubai

Old Dubai – An Enchanting Look at the City’s Past

From small buildings to large shopping malls, Dubai has come a long way. The remarkable way it revolutionizes itself in such a short period. Technology parks, entertainment centers, lavish shopping malls, and informative museums; the journey to the modern world from ancient times is history itself. But, the main thing is that Dubai still does not let these modern times ruin its ancient places and is stuck with its heritage and cultural past like Old Dubai more beautifully than any country else.

Old Dubai Tour

Dubai is the central hub for people around the world. Many find luxurious Dubai more attractive, while others find comfort in the old Dubai. The old Dubai tour covers the areas such as Deira, Bur Dubai, Al Garhoud, Al Karama, and Al Nahda. These areas resemble the historic and well-established ancient times area.

Old Dubai is never too old for basic facilities. It also carries supermarkets, schools, and hospitals but has a limited number of facilities compared to new and modern Dubai. The developments in the modern area are more luxurious with various options.

The old Dubai seeks tourist attention because of its cultural value and worth. The ancient kind of shopping malls, old towns, and national and cultural ancient places find their way to attract tourists in no time. Historical spots such as Deira Clocktower and Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House are one of the most visited spots in old Dubai.

Tourists also explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood (also known as Al Bastakiya) and the emirate’s first significant port, Dubai Creek, in old Dubai and entertain themselves with the ancient beauty of the area. Apart from these, Old Souk Dubai, Dubai Old Town, The Old Library of Dubai, and the Wall of Old Dubai are the must checkpoints for the people.

Old Souk Dubai in Old Dubai

The Arab marketplace is called a Souk. Old Souk Dubai or Dubai Old city is a versatile traditional market famous for its clothing and customs; it is located in the heart of Bur Dubai. This shopping destination will make its visitors feel the essence of Old Dubai. Gold Souk is a must-visit.

Souks are famous for their peaceful environment and unique charm, showing the nation’s cultural heritage with various products, including hand-woven and machine-made fabrics. The enchanting experience here by looking into the products reflecting national culture is magical. That is the reason why this is also called “The Textile Souk in Dubai.”

This Old Dubai Market covers the local section and provides the guests with international products. Bright candles, different fabrics, and pillows will be the eye-catcher here. As mentioned, it is one of the biggest textile markets; people would find exceptional fabric here. Moreover, large quantities of buttons, lace, and other items are available. Footwear and perfumes also find their way here. It is also a more prominent spot for spices and dry fruits; meanwhile, the souvenirs available are also an attention seeker.

Old Souk is on the southern side of Creek in Bur Dubai. It is easily reachable at Al Fahidi Metro station and Al Ghubaiba Metro Station.

Nearby Tourist Spots

Old Souk Dubai has three nearby tourist spots within walking distance – The first one is the famous Al Fahidi District, the next one is Dubai Museum, and last but not least, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Tourists can spend their entire day here enjoying Souk and making memories with other spots.

Old Town Dubai in Old Dubai

Old Town Dubai is located in Downtown Dubai also named “The Centre of Now.” It is the only low-rise apartment complex here, whereas a blend of mid-rise apartments is also here. Emaar Properties develop it. This was completed in 2006and. The term “Old” refers to its ancient architectural style.

Communities

Different communities are living in this Old Town of Dubai. The most popular among them is the old Town Island and Yansoon communities. Other communities, such as Reehan, Miska, and Zanzebeel, also found their way into this town.

The Old Town Dubai consists of well-furnished and lavish hotels. The Manzil Downtown Hotel is located here and is a 4-star hotel with top-class facilities. This town also features The Palace Hotel. Moreover, guests can also dine at Boulevard Kitchen, Nezesaussi Grill, The Courtyard, and Fume Neighborhood Eatery.

Worship Areas

Muslims can find Al Ghafoor Mosque as the main mosque in the area; other small mosques are also presented for the residents. St. Mary Catholic Church is located there for the Christian community of the area, while Hindu residents can find temples for their worship.

The Old Library Dubai in Old Dubai

The Old library Dubai is another unique spot to visit in old Dubai. It is one of the leading English Language Lending libraries with around 1800 families and individual members. It is run entirely by the volunteers of a non-profit organization to serve the community. It is located on Sheikh Zayed Road in Al Barsha and comes under the premises of the Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre in the Mall of the Emirates.

This library was built in 1969, initially operating under Dubai Lending Library. It is the oldest English language library and holds a significant place in Dubai’s history. Today this library has a collection of over 19,000 books for adults, teenagers, and children.

The Wall of Old Dubai

The wall of Old Dubai is another historical art piece to be visited in Old Dubai. Two walls defined the city’s boundaries. One was constructed in Deira Side in the early 19th century. Another was built in Bur Dubai. It was built around 1800 A.D. This wall is also the oldest one that surrounds the whole area of old Dubai, including Al-Faheidi Fort, The Grand Mosque, and the residential houses.

The Bur Dubai wall, famous for its elegance, was built with the help of Gypsum and Coral stones. The 600 meters long wall was approximately 50 cm thick and 2.5 meters high. The wall was also demolished to expand the city in the early twentieth century.

In 2001, some part of the foundation of this wall was explored. Dubai Municipality has then restored the Historical Building Section. This remaining part became the only evidence of The Wall of Old Dubai.

Starbucks in the Old Dubai

Starbucks is heaven for all coffee lovers, and drinking Starbucks in an ancient yet charming environment is the best combo to think of. To make people experience this feeling, Dubai’s Al-Seef opened a brand new Starbucks that is winning people’s hearts.

Al-Seef is located close to the Al Fahidi Historic District, one of the prettiest spots in Dubai. This spot holds many shopping facilities and restaurants, and other shops. The latest addition of Starbucks in Al Seef is what keeps people entertained after being tired of exploring that area.

The Starbucks old Dubai here has wooden furniture that is simple yet exciting indoors and outdoors. The architecture is of unique style with a blend of modern and traditional Arabic touches. The charming and peaceful environment makes it more attractive for visitors. Fresh-baked cookies, sandwiches, and delicious coffee provide the guests with ultimate relaxation.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Al Fahidi Historical District Bastakiya is the ancient foundation of the beautiful city. Al Bastakiya is well-known for its Old Dubai traces and tells much more about ancient history. This neighborhood means a lot about the people’s lifestyle even before the UAE was formed. This neighborhood is in Al Hamriya, Bur Dubai.

Mr. Qasim Bin Abdullah Al Batsaki built the Al Faridi Historic Neighborhood in the 19 th century. This neighborhood is spread over 300 square meters, showing Old Dubai’s real essence. The artist Ture of this neighborhood is said to be one of the unique ones across all.

Attractions of Al Bastakia

Gallery majlis.

This ancient building was constructed in 1930 and renovated in 2002. The architecture of buildings takes you back to the actual ancient world. It is now used to store different antiquities, traditional paintings, and unique art pieces from Dubai.

Dar Al Nadwa

An ancient building of the 19 th century that has hosted many important events, including national and international gatherings, art shows, symposiums, and conferences.

Bastakia Nights Restaurants

This restaurant is well-known for its traditional servings and delicious foods that always give a homemade food taste.

Architectural Heritage Society

This building carries one of the best architectural designs in the whole district. It is dedicated to preserving the architectural heritage in the neighborhood.

Sahara Gate

This historical building in Al Bastakia, Old Dubai, is an essential spot for culture and tourism. The interiors are very well designed, with Islamic writings on the walls. It is a must-see in Old Dubai.

The takeaway for Old Dubai

Dubai is no doubt famous for its beautifully organized museums, parks, shopping malls, and buildings but the charm Old Dubai carries is on another level. Exploring the Old Town and Al Bastakia, walking past The Old Wall Dubai, reading a book at Old Library, enjoying coffee at Starbucks, and ending up the day by shopping in the Old Souk Dubai is a lifetime experience to feel.

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• Tour Inclusion

Things to Do in Old Dubai – Attractions & Activities

When everyone thinks of Dubai, the first things that come to their mind are the tall buildings, seven-lane roads, luxury cars, and the 24/7 party atmosphere. But there is another side in Old Dubai where the old boats are still a thing, centuries-old markets are still bustling with crowds, and medieval buildings are still intact. 

Here are is a guide for you to visit and explore this place where the glory of Dubai began from. Knowing these things beforehand will help you understand everything better once you are there in this heritage part of the emirate.

Visit Gold Souk in Old Dubai

Before the modern-day oil boom, the primary source of Dubai’s revenue was from trade. The creek became a natural harbor, and hence Dubai became a middle man in the trade between the major players. That was long ago. Like, more than two centuries ago. 

One of the things that attracted traders to settle in Dubai was its tax-free economy. This was great for the gold business. Within a few decades after introducing the tax-free gold trade, Dubai had become the center for gold business, thus earning the name the city of gold.

At present, prices of gold in Dubai are some of the lowest in the world. Gold souk has been there for nearly two decades and is brimming with gold shops. The yellow hue of this precious metal fills out the streets, giving the whole area an otherworldly vibe. 

The daily prices of the gold will be displayed on the shop windows. The actual cost of the jewelry will have an additional price tag of craftsmanship. Even though the price of the gold is fixed, you can still haggle over the jewelry price for what it costs for the craftsmanship. 

Dhow Cruise in Creek

The creek that cuts through the middle of old Dubai is something you cannot ignore. For one thing, it is ubiquitous and can be seen from many places in Old Dubai. Another thing is that most of the significant attractions rub their shoulders with the creek. Before the city started sprawling to the neighboring regions, everything in Dubai was on the creek’s shores. Apart from visiting all the attractions individually, taking a dhow cruise Dubai through the quintessential creek is an unmatched experience. 

Dhows dock on the Deira side of the creek. You should book the cruise beforehand for the trip. Deira is infamous for heavy traffic. So park your car elsewhere and walk to the dhow station. The 2-hour cruise is your chance to see the attractions in old Dubai close to the waters. All of the major attractions are lit up at night. You will notice the medieval-looking buildings along the creek on the Bur Dubai side, stretching for 2 kilometers. That’s Al Seef, and it’s not a historical building. Al Seef was completed about two years ago. It complements the whole atmosphere of the area surrounding the Bastakiya. 

Although most of Al Seef is built the old way, some part is a modern rendition of the traditional Arabic architecture. After all, Al Seef is a classic and contemporary marriage. Bur Dubai’s side is primarily historical buildings dating back before the 1950s. Some of them are even older, as the house of Sheikh Saeed al Maktoum and the buildings surrounding it. The oldest of all the things in Dubai is the Dubai museum itself, although you cannot see it from the dhow. When you are sightseeing from the dhow, the Dubai Museum is blocked entirely by the old Grand Mosque of Dubai.

Contrary to the Bur Dubai side, buildings on the Deira side are taller and more modern. After the oil boom, Deira became a bustling marketplace while bur Dubai remained a residential district. Although there are both markets and residential buildings on both sides, predominantly, that’s the case. 

The main attraction of a dinner cruise is, you guessed it, the dinner itself. The dinner serves the best of eastern cuisine. As the dhow starts moving, the starters will be served. Then the main course follows. You can have as much as you want to your heart’s fill. Then as you are enjoying the dessert, the Tanoura dancer will take the floor.

The cruise lasts for two hours. You will travel through the most prominent places in old Dubai. 

Dhow cruises always happen exclusively at night unless it is Ramadan. During Ramadan, you will also find iftar cruises, which start the trip a little while before sunset. 

Walkthrough the heritage in Al Bastakiya

Legends have it that when prince Charles of England visited Dubai in the 1980s, he advised the rulers of Dubai against demolishing these historical buildings. Since then, the Bastakiya has been preserved as a part of the heritage village in Dubai.

Bastakiya is a complex of buildings predating the 1950s. They were houses of the elites of Dubai at those times. Today these buildings showcase several small museums and shops that educate us of the heritage of Dubai before there was the UAE. The Bastakiya is located next to the old Grand Mosque of Dubai.

Arabic Coffee at Coffee Museum

The Arab culture gifted coffee to the world. And they still have their unique take on the coffee called Gahwa or Arabic coffee. It is a coffee vastly different from the European latte or espresso. Arabic coffee is filled with spices. Cardamom, saffron, pepper, and a few other spices make the Arabic coffee. Some of the herbs are added according to personal preference.

The Coffee museum curates the coffee culture in Dubai. You will find the old pots and vessels used to brew them. It also has a cafe attached to it where you can order a customized Arabic coffee, of which the price is included in the entry fee.

A Different Take on Tea – Arabian Tea House

A great place to experience the authentic taste of Emirati cuisine. There arent many restaurants that specialize in the traditional food of the UAE. But the main attraction of the Arabian Tea House is the tea itself. The cafe, part of the Bastakiya, offers over 150 varieties. Order anything from herbal tea to traditional Arab Karak tea.  

The Arabian Tea House cafe lounge is a part of the Bastakiya quarter. This is not the only branch of this restaurant. But this one offers a traditional dining experience replete with Arabic majlis and old-style silverware.

Unravel the history at Dubai Museum 

Dubai Museum is the oldest and most comprehensive museum about the history and development of Dubai. 

The most monumental artifact of the Dubai museum is the museum building itself. The museum is inside Al Fahidi Fort, built in the eighteenth century, only a few decades after the Arabs settled in Dubai. The fort started as a watchtower to guard the boundaries of the city. It expanded into a garrison, to a fortress, and the office of the ruler over the centuries. 

In 1963, the Dubai Museum opened its door to the public. This museum has played a significant part in teaching Dubai’s short yet glorious history to the millions who visit Dubai every year. 

Textile Souk – A colorful place in Old Dubai

This souk is where you can shop for fabrics from across the world in one place. But the majority of them are traditional clothes from India. There are both old-style clothes and the more modern variants of them. An array of souvenir shops are also present in the souk. Unlike all other souks from antiquity, the textile souq is in bur Dubai.

Abra ride across the creek

Being divided by the creek, there was a need for transportation between the two. Abras were a part of the daily lives of Dubai from day one. Interestingly, these traditional wooden boats are still operating in old Dubai. Even though it was preserved as a tourist attraction, it is one of the common folks’ most used options to move between Deira and Bur Dubai.

This is something you should never miss when you are exploring old Dubai. The ride only costs one dirham, and the sights are worth so much more than that. There are half a dozen abra stations in Deira and Bur Dubai. 

Refined versions of Abras run in downtown Dubai as well. There are electric Abras in the Burj Khalifa lake and Global Village, petrol Abras in the Dubai Water Canal, and Marina. You might even come across a few air-conditioned Abras.

Cargo deck – Something that didn’t change 

You cannot look for a specific thing, but the cargo deck in Deira near the Gold souq abra station is where the changes haven’t been affected. Although much of Bur Dubai and Deira reminds us of the old Dubai, this part of it is particularly notable. You can see the old-style cargo boats moving the goods. 

This is not the main port of Dubai anymore. But these small cargo boats carry the goods from the main ports to the main marketplace in old Dubai. 

Walk along the creek in Deira

There is a long and wide walkway on the Deira side that takes you along old Dubai. This is a great place to go for a morning run or an evening walk. This promenade is all along the Dhow wharf, Rolex twin towers, cargo docks, and abra stations. 

Sheikh Muhammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

People from all across the globe come to visit Dubai. Besides seeing the wonders in Dubai, understanding the culture and traditions is also vital to gaining a good insight into the lives of the local population. If you are in for that, look nowhere else than the Sheikh Muhammad Centre for Cultural Understanding. This is what you will first see when you enter Al Bastakiya. 

They offer breakfast, brunch, lunch, evening tea, and cultural dinner meals. The trained guide will explain the traditions with demonstrations where necessary. After that, you can relish traditional Emirati food. 

Enjoy the art at XVA Gallery

Another great place to explore is Al Bastakiya. But this one is for art lovers. The XVA Gallery is a hotel, a cafe, and an art gallery simultaneously. It is a starting place for you to explore the world of middle eastern art. This isn’t a huge gallery, but for the fact that it is free, it is a great place to visit. So include this place in your itinerary on your visit to the old part of Dubai.

The cafe inside serves specializes in vegetarian food inspired by other middle eastern dishes. Although most of the middle eastern words have meat as an integral part, XVA presents many items on their menu. You can even stay at the hotel in all the heritage buildings.

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• Travel Guide

Souks And Boats In Old Dubai

Published: November 19, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Patience Ledbetter

• Africa & Middle East
• Budget Travel
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Tips
• United Arab Emirates

Introduction

Welcome to Old Dubai, a vibrant and historical district that offers a peek into the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting city. Tucked away amidst the glitzy skyscrapers and modern developments, Old Dubai holds the secrets of Dubai’s humble beginnings as a small fishing village.

Old Dubai, also known as Al Fahidi Historic District, showcases the city’s traditional charm through its narrow alleyways, historic buildings, bustling souks, and serene waterfront. As you wander through its streets, you’ll be transported back in time, immersing yourself in the authentic Arabian atmosphere that pervades the area.

This vibrant district is a fascinating blend of past and present, where ancient traditions coexist with modern influences. From the traditional souks that exude the scent of exotic spices and the vibrant colors of textiles to the traditional wooden abra boats that gracefully navigate the bustling Dubai Creek, Old Dubai offers a glimpse into the soul of the city.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a shopaholic in search of unique treasures, or a food lover eager to indulge in authentic Arabian cuisine, Old Dubai has something special to offer. This article will guide you through the fascinating highlights of this district, ensuring that you make the most out of your visit to Old Dubai.

History of Old Dubai

The history of Old Dubai can be traced back to the early 19th century when it was a small fishing and pearl diving village. The region was strategically located on the shores of the Dubai Creek, which served as a natural harbor and facilitated trade with neighboring regions. The humble beginnings of Old Dubai were transformed when the Al Maktoum family, led by Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum, settled in the area and established it as the ruling family’s headquarters.

Over the years, Old Dubai grew in significance due to its strategic location as a trading hub. Merchants flocked to the area, establishing bustling markets, or souks, that traded in a variety of goods, from textiles and spices to pearls and gold. This bustling trade attracted merchants from across the Arabian Peninsula, Persia, and even India, contributing to the region’s cultural diversity.

The architecture of Old Dubai is a testimony to its historical significance. The traditional buildings in the district feature wind towers, known as “barajeel”, which were used to provide natural air conditioning in the harsh desert climate. These architectural marvels exhibit the ingenious craftsmanship of the past and offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who once inhabited the area.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Old Dubai is the Al Fahidi Fort, which dates back to the late 18th century. Originally built as a defense fort, it later served as the residence of the ruling Al Maktoum family. Today, the fort has been transformed into the Dubai Museum, showcasing the city’s history, culture, and heritage.

As the city of Dubai embraced modernity and rapid development, Old Dubai managed to preserve its historical charm. The area was extensively renovated and restored to its former glory, with an emphasis on maintaining its traditional authenticity. Walking through the streets of Old Dubai, visitors can still feel the echoes of the past, the whispers of a bygone era.

Old Dubai serves as a reminder of the city’s humble beginnings and is a testament to the vision and perseverance of its people. It is a living tribute to the rich heritage of Dubai and offers a fascinating contrast to the modern metropolis it has become. Exploring Old Dubai is a journey through time, where history unfolds at every corner, inviting visitors to experience the essence of this captivating city.

Traditional Souks

One of the main highlights of Old Dubai is its traditional souks, which are vibrant marketplaces brimming with an array of goods and wares. These souks have been the heart of commercial activity in Dubai for centuries, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s trading heritage.

The most famous souk in Old Dubai is the Gold Souk, a dazzling haven for jewelry enthusiasts. Here, you’ll find an astonishing array of intricate gold and precious gemstone jewelry. Stroll through the narrow alleys, admiring the glittering displays and haggling with the friendly vendors to find the perfect piece to take home as a memento.

Another must-visit souk is the Spice Souk, a sensory delight that envelops you in a symphony of fragrances. The air is filled with the aroma of exotic spices, dried herbs, and incense. Explore the colorful spice stalls, where you can find everything from traditional Arabian spices like saffron and cardamom to unique blends and herbal remedies.

In addition to the gold and spice souks, Old Dubai is also home to the Perfume Souk, a treasure trove for fragrance enthusiasts. Here, you can find a wide array of traditional Arabian perfumes, oils, and incense. Immerse yourself in the scents of the East as you peruse the shops lined with decorative perfume bottles, each containing its own unique essence.

For those seeking traditional textiles and fabrics, a visit to the Textile Souk is a must. This vibrant market is filled with shops offering beautiful silks, cottons, and intricate embroidery. Whether you’re looking for a unique fabric to create your own garment or searching for traditional Arabian attire, you’ll find a wide selection to choose from.

Exploring the traditional souks of Old Dubai is like stepping into a different world, where ancient trading traditions are still alive. The vibrant colors, the bustling atmosphere, and the distinctive aromas create an immersive experience that is both captivating and exhilarating. Don’t forget to brush up your haggling skills, as bargaining is an essential part of the market culture.

Whether you’re looking to purchase souvenirs, sample local delicacies, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, a visit to the traditional souks of Old Dubai is a must for any traveler seeking an authentic Arabian experience.

One of the iconic symbols of Old Dubai is the traditional wooden abra boats that gracefully glide along the historic Dubai Creek. These small, traditional boats offer a unique and traditional way to explore the district and experience the charm of Old Dubai.

The abras have been a part of Dubai’s heritage for centuries and were originally used as a means of transportation for local residents and traders. Today, they continue to ferry passengers across the creek, providing a nostalgic journey back in time.

Step aboard an abra and feel the gentle sway as the boat makes its way across the creek. As you traverse the shimmering waters, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding architectural treasures and lively markets. The boat ride offers a peaceful respite from the bustling streets, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of this historic waterway.

The abra boats operate on fixed routes, transporting passengers between the different parts of Old Dubai. You can choose to make a round trip or hop on and off at various stops along the way. This flexibility allows you to explore the different attractions and markets at your own pace.

A ride on the abra boats is not just a means of transportation, but also a cultural experience. You can interact with the local boatmen, known as “abra captains,” who have been plying these waters for generations. They often have fascinating stories and insights to share about the history and heritage of Dubai.

During your abra boat journey, you’ll also witness the dynamic juxtaposition of the old and the new as you pass by modern skyscrapers standing tall next to traditional buildings. This contrast perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Dubai, where tradition blends harmoniously with progress.

Whether you choose to take a short trip to cross the creek or embark on a longer journey to explore the entire length of Dubai Creek, the abra boat ride promises a truly unforgettable experience. It is an opportunity to connect with the rich maritime history of Dubai and soak in the picturesque views of Old Dubai from a unique perspective.

So, hop aboard an abra boat and let the gentle ripples of the creek carry you along on a magical journey through the heart of Old Dubai.

Cultural Heritage

Old Dubai is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, where you can immerse yourself in the rich traditions and customs of the region. The district showcases the deep-rooted Emirati culture and offers a glimpse into the way of life in the past.

One of the best places to discover the cultural heritage of Old Dubai is at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). This center aims to promote cross-cultural understanding by hosting interactive activities, cultural tours, and educational programs. Visitors can participate in traditional Emirati meals, guided mosque tours, and learn about local customs and traditions.

Another important cultural landmark in Old Dubai is the Majlis Gallery. This art gallery not only exhibits contemporary artworks by local and international artists but also preserves the rich cultural heritage of the region through its collection of traditional crafts, artifacts, and antiques. Visitors can explore the diverse artistic expressions and learn about the cultural significance of these artworks.

For a deeper understanding of Emirati heritage, a visit to the Dubai Museum is highly recommended. Housed within the Al Fahidi Fort, the museum showcases exhibits and artifacts that depict the history, culture, and way of life in Dubai. From traditional costumes and weaponry to traditional Emirati houses known as “barasti” huts, the museum offers a comprehensive insight into the cultural heritage of the region.

Old Dubai is also home to numerous traditional Emirati heritage houses, or “wind houses,” that have been meticulously preserved and converted into cultural hubs. These houses provide a glimpse into the architectural and domestic lifestyle of the past, showcasing traditional furnishings, decor, and even household utensils. The Al Shindagha Museum, located in the Heritage House, is a notable example, offering visitors a glimpse into the personal lives of influential Emirati families through interactive exhibits.

Throughout the year, Old Dubai also hosts various cultural festivals and events that celebrate Emirati traditions, art, music, and cuisine. These events provide opportunities for locals and visitors to experience traditional dances like the “Yola” or folk music performances, taste traditional Emirati cuisine, and engage in crafts and activities that are deeply rooted in Emirati culture.

Immersing yourself in the cultural heritage of Old Dubai is a rewarding experience, allowing you to appreciate the deep-rooted traditions and customs that have shaped the Emirati identity. From exploring museums and galleries to attending cultural events, Old Dubai offers a myriad of opportunities to connect with the rich heritage of the region and gain a deeper understanding of the Emirati way of life.

Cuisine and Dining Options

When it comes to culinary delights, Old Dubai is a gastronomic paradise that showcases the flavors and aromas of traditional Emirati cuisine as well as a diverse range of international culinary experiences. From casual street food stalls to high-end restaurants, Old Dubai offers a myriad of dining options to satisfy every palate.

To truly experience the local Emirati cuisine, head to the Al Fahidi neighborhood where you’ll find traditional Emirati restaurants serving authentic dishes. These establishments often feature traditional decor and offer a warm and welcoming ambiance. Indulge in dishes like Machbous, a flavorful rice dish with tender meat, or Harees, a savory porridge made with cracked wheat and chicken.

For those seeking a more casual dining experience, exploring the street food scene in Old Dubai is a must. Wander through the bustling alleys of the Textile Souk or the Spice Souk, and you’ll find food stalls offering a wide variety of snacks and bites. Savor the popular falafel served in crispy pita bread, or indulge in a shawarma, a mouthwatering grilled meat wrap.

Old Dubai also caters to international taste buds with its diverse range of international cuisines. From Lebanese and Iranian to Indian and Chinese, you’ll find a multitude of restaurants offering flavorful and authentic dishes from around the world. Feast on succulent kebabs, flavorful biryanis, or tantalizing dim sum, all within the charming ambiance of Old Dubai.

One unique dining experience in Old Dubai is dining onboard a traditional dhow. These beautifully crafted wooden boats offer a romantic and scenic dining experience along the Dubai Creek. Enjoy a delectable meal while cruising the gentle waters, taking in the stunning views of the old and new Dubai skyline.

For those who enjoy a good cup of coffee, Old Dubai is home to several specialty coffee shops that boast unique flavors and brewing methods. Sit back and relax, sipping on a perfectly brewed cup of Arabic coffee, while taking in the serene surroundings.

Last but not least, don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth by sampling traditional Arabian desserts. Head to the local bakeries and sweets shops in Old Dubai, where you’ll find mouthwatering treats like baklava, kunafa, and luqaimat. These sweet delights will transport your taste buds to a whole new world of flavors.

Whether you’re craving traditional Emirati cuisine or eager to explore international dishes, Old Dubai has a multitude of dining options to satisfy every palate. From street food stalls to fine dining establishments, this district offers a culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more.

Tourist Attractions

Old Dubai is a treasure trove of tourist attractions, offering a blend of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a memorable experience, Old Dubai has something for everyone.

One of the must-visit attractions in Old Dubai is the Dubai Creek. Take a leisurely stroll along its banks or hop on an abra boat to experience the tranquil beauty of this historic waterway. Capture stunning views of the city’s skyline, spot traditional dhows bobbing on the water, and soak up the rich maritime history of Dubai.

For a deeper dive into the past, a visit to the Al Fahidi Historic District is essential. Explore the narrow alleyways lined with traditional wind towers, visit the Al Fahidi Fort transformed into the Dubai Museum, and gain insights into Dubai’s rich history and heritage. The district also boasts several art galleries and cultural centers, providing opportunities to immerse yourself in local arts and crafts.

One of the iconic landmarks of Old Dubai is the Jumeirah Mosque, an architectural marvel and a shining example of Islamic architecture. Guided tours of the mosque offer visitors a chance to learn about Islam and appreciate the intricate details of the mosque’s design. The stunning beauty and serene ambiance of the Jumeirah Mosque make it a must-visit attraction in Old Dubai.

To delve into the traditional Emirati lifestyle, visit the Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House. This historic building was once the residence of the ruling Al Maktoum family and now serves as a museum. Explore the elegant rooms, admire the antique furniture, and gain a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the ruling family.

Old Dubai is also home to a bustling marketplace, the Textile Souk. Indulge in a shopping spree as you wander through shops selling vibrant fabrics, scarves, and traditional Arabian garments. Marvel at the talented artisans embroidering intricate designs and take home a unique piece of Dubai’s textile heritage.

No visit to Old Dubai is complete without experiencing the vibrant and bustling traditional souks. Explore the gold souk, spice souk, perfume souk, and more, where you can haggle for treasures, soak in the aromas of exotic spices, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of these lively markets.

Lastly, make sure to visit the Al Bastakiya Quarter, one of the oldest residential areas in Dubai. Stroll through its narrow streets, admire the beautifully restored traditional houses, and explore the art galleries and cafes that have sprung up in the midst of the historic architecture. This quaint neighborhood is a haven for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Old Dubai is a melting pot of history, culture, and breathtaking sights. From the iconic Dubai Creek to the traditional souks and architectural masterpieces, this district offers a truly immersive experience that will captivate and leave a lasting impression on every visitor.

Exploring Old Dubai

Exploring Old Dubai is like embarking on a journey through time, where ancient traditions merge with modern influences. With its narrow alleyways, bustling souks, and historic landmarks, Old Dubai offers a captivating experience that unveils the city’s rich heritage. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of your exploration of Old Dubai.

Start your exploration at the heart of Old Dubai, the Al Fahidi Historic District. This well-preserved area is a maze of narrow streets, traditional wind towers, and beautiful courtyards. Take your time to wander through the district, allowing yourself to get lost in its enchanting atmosphere and admiring the architectural gems along the way.

Make sure to visit the Dubai Museum housed within the Al Fahidi Fort. It offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s history and culture through a collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays. Learn about the traditional Bedouin lifestyle, the pearling industry that was once the backbone of the economy, and the intriguing archaeological discoveries in the region.

A leisurely stroll along the Dubai Creek is a must-do when exploring Old Dubai. Take in the beautiful views of the water, the traditional wooden abra boats floating by, and the architectural wonders that line the creek. You can also visit the vibrant Dhow Wharfage, where you can witness the hustle and bustle of the traditional trading activities.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the traditional souks of Old Dubai. Explore the gold and spice souks, haggle for unique treasures, and marvel at the displays of intricate jewelry and aromatic spices. Don’t forget to sample the local street food and experience the flavors of the city.

For a serene escape amid the bustling streets, visit the beautifully landscaped Al Seef district. This modern waterfront promenade blends traditional Arabian architecture with contemporary design, offering a mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Enjoy a relaxing stroll, savor delicious cuisine, or find unique souvenirs to take home.

To gain a deeper understanding of the Emirati culture, consider visiting the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Engage in interactive sessions, partake in traditional meals, and participate in cultural tours to learn about local customs, traditions, and etiquette.

End your day of exploration with a visit to the sunset lounge at the iconic Burj Khalifa. Enjoy panoramic views of the city as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a stunning glow over the historic district of Old Dubai.

Whether you have a few hours or a full day to explore, Old Dubai will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. The district is a testament to the city’s humble beginnings, its vibrant culture, and its ability to embrace both tradition and modernity. So, lace up your walking shoes, prepare your camera, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting streets of Old Dubai.

Old Dubai is a captivating district that encapsulates the rich heritage, vibrant culture, and historic charm of the city. As you wander through its narrow alleyways, immerse yourself in the bustling souks, and admire the architectural wonders, you’ll find yourself transported to a bygone era. From the traditional souks brimming with exotic spices and precious gold to the serene waters of the Dubai Creek dotted with abra boats, Old Dubai offers a unique and immersive experience like no other.

Exploring Old Dubai is not just about visiting landmarks or shopping in traditional markets; it’s about connecting with the soul of the city. It’s a chance to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Emirati people, to understand the traditional way of life, and to appreciate the fascinating juxtaposition of old and new that defines Dubai.

Whether you’re strolling along the Dubai Creek, bargaining in the bustling souks, or savoring the flavors of traditional Emirati cuisine, Old Dubai weaves together a tapestry of experiences that will leave a lasting impression. It’s a district that allows you to step back in time while still being in the heart of a modern metropolis.

So, take the time to explore Old Dubai, to wander through its streets, and to discover the hidden gems that lie within its countless alleyways. Let the history, culture, and traditions of this enchanting district captivate your senses and create memories that will stay with you long after you’ve left.

Old Dubai is a testament to the city’s humble beginnings, its vibrant culture, and its ability to embrace both tradition and modernity. It’s a celebration of the past and a glimpse into the future. So, come and immerse yourself in the charm of Old Dubai – a true treasure trove of adventure, culture, and history.

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Sights & Attractions

31 Amazing things to do in Dubai for the ultimate holiday

Sun, August 14, 2022

Tick off the city's top things to do and places to visit.

Burj Khalifa

Standing 828m high, the  Burj Khalifa  is the tallest building in the world and one of Dubai's must-visit attractions. The majestic building is located in the heart of the city and is a hub of activity day and night. Just looking up in awe at the sheer scale of this magnificent structure is memorable in itself, but it's definitely worth venturing inside too. You can capture perfect views of the city from the  observation  deck at levels 124 and 125, or have a bite to eat in the  At The Top Sky Lounge . For special occasions, treat yourself to a sunset session at The Lounge, Burj Khalifa ,  the highest lounge in the world at 585m. 

Opening hours - At The Top:  8am - 12am, daily

Price - At The Top: from AED169

• 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai

The Dubai Fountain

Located at the base of Burj Khalifa  is one of the world's largest choreographed fountain displays, where powerful jet streams soar as high as 150m in the air and sway in time to musical numbers. Stop by in the evening when displays begin at sundown and take place every 30 minutes, until the final song plays at 11pm. Diners can also sit back and enjoy the show at an array of restaurants at Dubai Mall  or Souk Al Bahar , both commanding prime positions near the fountain arena.

Opening hours:  6pm - 11pm, daily

Price:  free

• Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is one of the largest manmade islands in the world and a triumph of human ingenuity. Locals and tourists alike flock to its vast array of high-end hotels – Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray  and, perhaps most notably, Atlantis, The Palm . Getting here is simple, thanks to the monorail running down the 'trunk', which connects to the mainland's tram system.

• Palm Jumeirah - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Dubai Creek

• Baniyas Rd, Deira, Dubai

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Best seen on foot, this area offers nostalgic views of a bygone era with traditional windtowers and a maze of winding alleyways, positioned along the historic waterways of Dubai Creek. Visit Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) to appreciate local culture with Arabic classes, heritage tours and guided mosque visits. After exploring, take an atmospheric abra  boat ride  to the souks on the other side of the creek. 

• Al Fahidi St, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai

The Dubai desert

Less than a 20 minute-drive from the modern streets of Downtown Dubai lies the mystique-filled Arabian desert. Go on a Dubai-style desert safari, complete with thrilling activities  such as quad biking and sandboarding. Those looking for luxury can book a safari with leading tour companies  Platinum Heritage  and Arabian Adventures . From the unforgettable offroad drive to cultural fun with henna painting and camel rides, and a feast of local cuisine under the stars, it's an only-in-Dubai treat. Want to stay a little longer? Treat yourself to an unforgettable night amid the dunes at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa .

• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai-Al Ain Rd - Dubai

Dubai Mall is the world’s largest destination for shopping, entertainment and leisure, located next to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Featuring over 1,200 retail stores, two major department stores and hundreds of food and beverage outlets, Dubai Mall covers more than 1 million sqm – an area equivalent to 200 football pitches. Even an entire day spent here is not enough to see it all. Along with its 1,200-plus shops and 150 restaurants, the venue  is home to a range of other fun attractions.

Opening hours: 10am - 1am, daily, except Wednesday (closes at midnight)

• Financial Centre Road, Downtown Dubai

Skydive Dubai

If there's one thing every adventure-seeker must sign up for, it's a skydiving experience. Skydive Dubai provides tandem skydive opportunities, supervised by trained professionals. You'll have to book well in advance to secure a spot, but it's worth it as you dive through the clouds from 13,000 feet and take in views  of the landmark Palm Jumeirah or rolling dunes of the desert. And you can keep reliving the epic experience thanks to perfectly-captured videos by the Skydive Dubai team. It's one for every braveheart's bucket list.

• Al Seyahi Street, Dubai Marina - Dubai

Madinat Jumeirah

Literally translated as 'City of Jumeirah', the Madinat Jumeirah complex is inspired by an ancient citadel. Housing luxury hotels and private enclaves designed to reflect traditional Arabian architecture, it's a great spot to indulge in a therapeutic day at the world-class Talise Spa , splurge on local trinkets and boutique brands at the Madinat Souk , or immerse yourself in the work of famous artists at the high-tech Theatre of Digital Art . And, with over 40 restaurants and lounges featuring cuisines from around the world, it's also an ideal place to refuel.

Opening hours & price: vary, depending on venues within the complex

• 6 King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St - Dubai

Dubai Frame

Since opening in 2018,  Dubai Frame  has become a cultural landmark that connects the Dubai's past with its present and represents a remarkable engineering feat.  Located within Dubai's famous Zabeel Park , this attraction lets you experience the transition between Old and New Dubai thanks to sweeping panoramic views of the city from 150m high. One of its striking features is the state-of-the-art clear glass bridge walkway, which connects parallel vertical towers so that, from the outside, the structure perfectly resembles a giant picture frame.

Opening hours:  9am - 9pm, daily

Price:  from AED20

• Zabeel Park, Za'abeel 1 - Dubai

The aptly-named Kite Beach is the perfect place to test out your watersports skills , although there's plenty to do out of the water at this popular spot too. Grab a smoothie from one of the many open-air cafes and restaurants, watch bikers and skaters fly by at the skate park, or enjoy a game of volleyball with friends on the sand. With plenty of beach activities, plus an incredible view of Burj Al Arab  in the distance, you can easily spend a whole day here.

Opening hours: 24 hours, daily, although sporting and dining venues at the beach have varying timings.

• Umm Suqeim, just off Jumeirah Beach Road

Dubai Water Canal

Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2-kilometre-long waterway extending from the Creek in Old Dubai  through Business Bay before finding its way to the Arabian Gulf. With 80,000sqm of public space and facilities and a 12km cycling path, the Canal has become a popular visitor attraction. There are also five pedestrian bridges that snake their way across the iconic waterway, so it's the perfect spot to stroll and take in classic views of the city at its best. Nearby is the Al Habtoor City  development, home to the thrilling  La Perle by Dragone  show, five-star hotels and an array of trendy restaurants.

• Dubai Water Canal - Al Safa - Dubai

If you'd like to shop, dine, watch a movie and swim in the sea all in one place, consider a trip to The Beach, opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). With guest DJs playing on most weekends, a cinema and plenty of trendy boutiques , The Beach is always buzzing with activity. Take your pick from the range of dining options, try the exhilarating watersports on offer or just enjoy some relaxation time in a cabana with your favourite book. The Beach is also connected to the trendy new  Bluewaters Island  district by a pedestrian bridge.

Opening hours - F&B outlets: 10am - midnight, Saturday - Wednesday, extended to 1am on Thursday and Friday 

• Opposite JBR, Dubai Marina - Dubai

City Walk offers European-style pedestrian streets alongside a host of shopping and entertainment options – perfect for a pleasant day out. Take a walk along tree-lined avenues with shops and restaurants and spot artwork etched by some of the world's finest urban artists . Afterwards, treat your family to an afternoon of fun and head over to The Green Planet  to see real wildlife in an indoor tropical rainforest setting. You can also catch a concert, live sports or a comedy show at the nearby  Coca-Cola Arena , the Middle East's largest indoor arena.

• Al Wasl and Al Safa Road Junction, Sheikh Zayed Rd - Al Wasl - Dubai

Dubai Miracle Garden

A world of floral wonder awaits you at Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden. The 72,000sqm park has an impressive line-up of famous buildings and structures completely transformed into colourful flower displays. You can immerse yourself among more than 50 million blooming flowers throughout the different exhibits. The nearby Dubai Butterfly Garden  is also worth a trip. Here, children can explore over 15,000 species of butterflies whilst learning more about them in a fun setting.

Opening hours:  9am - 9pm on weekdays, extended until 10pm on Saturday and Sunday

Price:  from AED60

• Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area, Dubai

Dubai Opera

Located in the Downtown district, Dubai Opera offers an enticing performing arts schedule from the likes of London’s West End and Manhattan’s Broadway. With views of  The Dubai Fountain  and located next to Burj Khalifa , the eye-catching exteriors are inspired by Arabian dhow ships while the stage area is designed to easily convert into three different event platforms: theatre, hall or concert hall. Want to know what's playing at Dubai Opera while you're holidaying in the city? Visit  Dubai Calendar .

Opening hours:  10am - 9pm, daily (show timings may vary)

Price:  from AED145

• Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, Near Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai - Dubai
• Dubai Marina

A 130km drive south-east of Downtown Dubai is Hatta , a not-to-be-missed scenic getaway. In this mountain town you can try kayaking along the serene Hatta Lake, or traversing rocky mountains on foot with specially-crafted hiking experiences . Recent additions to the area include Hatta Dome Park ,  a glamping experience that takes advantage of  Hatta’s mountainscape  views and back-to-nature vibes, plus  a chic lodge-style hotel and trailer parks. Indulge in a host of adventure activities such as zorbing, mountain biking and more at Hatta Wadi Hub. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, as the Hub is also home to Asia’s first ever water jump park, Hatta Drop-In.

• Hatta Wadi Hub, located off the Dubai-Hatta road

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Unlimited fun, excitement, speed and 5D entertainment – you can expect it all at IMG Worlds of Adventure. This enormous theme park  is the same size as 28 football pitches put together. With the most up-to-date and exciting rides , IMG Worlds of Adventure brings your favourite characters to life. Give your little ones the best time with rides featuring Ben 10, Powerpuff Girls and LazyTown, while older kids can delve into the world of Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron Man and The Avengers.

Opening hours : noon - 10pm, Sunday to Thursday, extended to 11pm on the weekend

Price - general admission:  AED345

• E311, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road - City of Arabia Dubai Land - United Arab Emirates

Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts adds to the city's reputation as an entertainment paradise. Children are bound to get excited in the labyrinth of magnificent theme parks, which includes  Motiongate , Real Madrid World  and Legoland and Legoland Water Park . Adults can relax at the Riverland Boulevard , home to restaurants and a range of open-air entertainment. Don't want to leave? Check in to the luxury Polynesian-style hotel, The Lapita, or the region's first and only Legoland Hotel, both located within the theme park destination.

Opening hours:  10am - 11pm, daily

Price - One Park Pass:  from AED295

• Sheikh Zayed Rd, Opposite Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai

The View at The Palm

Enjoy incomparable views of one of Dubai’s most talked about landmarks at The View at The Palm. Located 240m high, the observation deck presents never seen before 360-degree panoramas of  Palm Jumeirah  alongside the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline  in the distance. The View at The Palm is located on level 52 of The Palm Tower, which also houses a café, a creative exhibition that showcases the development of the island, interactive aquarium-themed tunnels and a gift shop. 

Opening hours : 9am - 10pm, weekdays, extended to midnight on weekends

Price:  from AED100

• The Palm Jumeirah - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Deep Dive Dubai

The latest addition to the city's thriving sports and adventure activities scene, Deep Dive Dubai is the place to be for all aqua enthusiasts . The recreational centre's 60.02m-deep pool is certified by Guinness World Records as the world's deepest swimming pool for diving. Aside from its remarkable depth, the pool features other unrivalled underwater additions, such as a 'sunken city', alongside year-round freediving and  scuba diving  courses and guided experiences.

Opening hours : 9am - 6pm, except on Friday (closed)

Price:  from AED400

• Deep Dive Dubai, NAS Sports Complex, Dubai

Sky Views Dubai

Thrill-seekers can try a trio of epic experiences at Sky Views Dubai, perched 219.5m above ground on top of the Address Sky View hotel. The Glass Slide allows visitors to zoom down a transparent tunnel on the 53rd floor, while the Observatory features a glass elevator and bridge to further test your head for heights. Meanwhile, true risk-takers will look forward to the Edge Walk – as they dangle off the building's side while strapped to a safety harness. All three experiences allow participants to enjoy phenomenal views  of Downtown Dubai's iconic landmarks, including the nearby Burj Khalifa .

Opening hours : 10am - 10pm, weekdays, extended to midnight on weekends

Price:  from AED70

• Address Sky View hotel, Emaar Square Area, Downtown Dubai

Burj Al Arab

For the first time since its launch, Dubai's famed Burj Al Arab  has opened its doors to visitors, granting access to the hotel's ultra-luxurious interiors on an immersive 90-minute tour. Not only will you get to explore the landmark’s gilded suites, and enjoy its incomparable views of the city , but you'll also uncover the hotel’s history and wealth of untold stories. You can also delve deeper and make the most of your experience with tour customisations.

Tour timings: 9:30am - 8:30pm, daily Price: from AED249

• Jumeirah Road - Umm Suqeim 3 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Museum of the Future

One of Dubai's most famous architectural landmarks , the Museum of the Future  takes pride of place along the city's superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Termed a 'living museum', it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre and themed attractions, so visitors can look beyond the present and towards the future's limitless possibilities.

Opening hours : 10am - 9:30pm, daily

Price:  from AED149

• Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre - Dubai

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

Built along the historic Dubai Creek and designed in the shape of a traditional Islamic lectern, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is the latest cultural hotspot to open its doors in the city. A landmark  unique to Dubai, the library is the largest in the region and representative of its collective cultural wisdom, educational milestones and continued forays in research and academia. Aside from enjoying the remarkable architecture and exploring the library's nine levels, visitors can discover a fully digitalised laboratory and several specialised collections inside.

Opening hours : 9am - 9pm, daily, except on Friday (opens 2pm) and Sunday (closed)

Price:  free

• Dubai Creek, Al Jaddaf

Serious foodies can’t possibly visit Dubai without making a stop at the  MENA 50 Best Restaurants  top spot, 3Fils. Its chic yet casual setting, coupled with calming harbourside views and a no-reservations policy, makes this one of Dubai's most unassumingly spectacular dining hotspots . Serving modern Asian cuisine, you’ll find tantalising dishes such as salmon carpaccio, wagyu sushi and fire-grilled octopus on the menu.  Opening hours : noon - 11:30pm, daily

• Shop 2, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, Al Urouba St, Jumeirah - Dubai

Aura Skypool

Unwind in the world's highest 360-degree swimming pool as you gaze out at landmarks including Burj Al Arab  and Ain Dubai. Situated 200m above ground, AURA Skypool is the perfect place for an unforgettable swim. Visitors to the Palm Jumeirah venue can also relax in its chic lounge area and sample a menu filled with delicious sharing plates and Pan-Asian flavours . Standouts to try include the glazed miso salmon, chilli honey cauliflower popcorn and matcha tiramisu. 

Opening hours : 10am - 7pm, daily

Price:  from AED150

• The Palm Tower, 50th Floor, Palm Jumeirah

Prepare to be amazed by Dubai's first permanent show, which combines acting, acrobatics, aquatic feats and aerial stunts across an exhilarating 90 minutes. All the action takes place inside a tailor-made, 1,300-seat theatre in the heart of Al Habtoor City , featuring a high-tech ‘aqua-stage’ that can fill with 2.7 million litres of water. Watch from the edge of your seat as performers dive, fly and defy gravity, as they tell a story which pays homage to the UAE's pearl diving history .

Show timings : 6:30pm - 8pm & 9pm - 11:30pm, daily

Price:  from AED209

• Al Habtoor City, 260 Sheikh Zayed Rd, Business Bay - Dubai

Alserkal Avenue

Once an industrial area in the centre of Dubai, Alserkal Avenue now comprises around 40 warehouses, converted into galleries, dance studios, artisanal cafes and more. The neighbourhood has nurtured a culture of creativity and is now one of the region’s leading art hubs. Since its humble beginnings as a standalone gallery in 2008, word caught on and similar concepts soon moved into the area. Popular spots include arthouse theatre  Cinema Akil , the hipster-inspired  Nightjar Coffee  and Leila Heller Gallery.

• 17th Street, Al Quoz 1, Dubai

Expo City Dubai

Building on the legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai , which welcomed 192 nations and more than 24 million visitors, is the future-centric Expo City Dubai. Explore popular country pavilions including the falcon-inspired UAE Pavilion, award-winning Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion and reworked spaces for Luxembourg, Pakistan and Australia. Alif – the Mobility Pavilion and Terra – the Sustainability Pavilion have been transformed into interactive educational experiences, while the Opportunity Pavilion is now the Expo 2020 Dubai Museum.  Al Wasl Plaza , the Dubai Exhibition Centre, the Garden in the Sky observation tower and the Surreal water feature also remain at Expo City Dubai, which has its own metro station. 

Opening hours: 24 hours daily, though attraction timings vary Price: free to enter, though attraction tickets vary

• Expo Road Dubai South, Jebel Ali

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30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dubai

Written by Jess Lee Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Jess Lee is a travel writer who has specialized and lived in the Middle East for over 15 years.

Glitzy Dubai is the United Arab Emirates' holiday hot spot. This city of high-rises and shopping malls has transformed itself from a desert outpost to a destination du-jour, where tourists flock for sales bargains, sunshine, and family fun.

Dubai is famous for contemporary sightseeing attractions such as the Burj Khalifa (the world's tallest building) and shopping malls that come complete with mammoth aquariums and indoor ski slopes. But this city has many cultural highlights and things to do, as well as all the glamorous modern add-ons.

Take a wander around the Al Fahidi quarter, and you'll discover the Dubai of old, then cruise along Dubai Creek in a traditional dhow, and you'll soon realize there's more to this city than its flashy veneer.

Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Dubai.

1. Shoot to the Top of Burj Khalifa

2. view the dubai fountain display, 3. sneak in some shopping at dubai mall, 4. visit an underwater world at dubai aquarium, 5. cool off at atlantis aquaventure waterpark, 6. head out into the desert, 7. take afternoon tea in the burj al-arab, 8. ski indoors at mall of the emirates' ski dubai, 9. explore dubai creek, 10. wander through colorful dubai miracle garden, 11. walk through history in al fahidi quarter (old dubai), 12. experience global village's culture & entertainment, 13. cruise around madinat jumeirah on an abra, 14. soak up the sun on jumeirah beach, 15. discover uae history at dubai museum, 16. snap sunset pics at dubai frame, 17. swim & sunbathe at la mer beach, 18. family time at motiongate & legoland in dubai parks, 19. tour jumeirah mosque, 20. take to the water at kite beach & umm suqeim beach, 21. stroll sheikh zayed road, 22. fuel up on thrills & spills in img worlds of adventure, 23. haggle in the souks of deira, 24. skydive over dubai's palm jumeirah, 25. enjoy world-class theater at dubai opera, 26. savor a nature break in dubai butterfly garden, 27. explore local culture in the heritage and diving village, 28. spot flamingos at ras al khor wildlife sanctuary, 29. view traditional architecture at sheikh saeed al-maktoum house, 30. browse cutting-edge art in alserkal avenue, best things to do with kids in dubai, where to stay in dubai for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to dubai, map of tourist attractions in dubai, best time to visit dubai, united arab emirates.

Highlight: The world's tallest building and Dubai's best panoramic city views

Dubai's landmark building and major tourist attraction is the Burj Khalifa , which at 829.8 meters is the tallest building in the world and the most famous of the city's points of interest.

For most visitors, a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor here is a must-do while in the city. The views across the city skyline from this bird's-eye perspective are simply staggering.

The slick observation deck experience includes a multimedia presentation on both Dubai and the building of the Burj Khalifa (completed in 2010) before a high-speed elevator whizzes you up to the observation deck for those 360-degree views out across the skyscrapers to the desert on one side and the ocean on the other.

Nighttime visits are particularly popular with photographers due to Dubai's famous city-lights panoramas.

Buy your Burj Khalifa "At the Top" Entrance Ticket in advance to avoid long line-ups, especially if you are planning to visit on a weekend.

Highlight: A family-friendly evening entertainment spectacle

Wrapping around the Burj Khalifa are the gardens of Burj Park, with walkways dotted with modern art sculptures. Burj Park is where you come to see the Dubai Fountain display on Burj Lake.

Modeled on the famous Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas, this is the world's tallest performing fountain, with water displays shooting up to 150 meters high into the air.

The 30-minute-long displays take place regularly after dark, and although the display itself is free, there are entrance charges to access the add-on experiences.

The floating platform of the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is one of the most popular experiences for close-up views, while there are also opportunities to take an abra (traditional wooden boat) onto Burj Lake to see the fountains from the water.

Highlights: Dubai Aquarium, plenty of family activities, dining options, and brand-name shopping

Dubai Mall is the city's premier mall and one of the city's best places to visit for a day of shopping and indoor activities to keep the kids busy. It provides entry to the Burj Khalifa as well as the Dubai Aquarium.

There is also an ice-skating rink, gaming zone, and cinema complex if you're looking for more entertainment options.

The shopping and eating are endless, and there are nearly always special events such as live music and fashion shows within the mall. The most famous of these are the annual Dubai Shopping Festival in January and February and the Dubai Summer Surprises Festival in July and August.

Location: Doha Road, just off Sheikh Zayed Road

Highlights: An awe-inspiring introduction to the underwater world

One of the city's top tourist attractions, the Dubai Aquarium houses 140 species of sea life in the huge suspended tank on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall.

Although there is free viewing from the mall, the highlight of a visit here is entering the Underwater Zoo, with its three-story high, 270-degree views along the length of the glass-panel tunnels.

As well as viewing the vast amount of marine life, the Dubai Aquarium offers plenty of aquatic experiences and things to do for visitors who want a close-up encounter with some of the aquarium's inhabitants, from hand-feeding eagle rays to diving with reef and tiger sharks.

Address: Dubai Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road

Highlight: Water-based theme park fun for a day devoted to family entertainment

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark , based at Atlantis, The Palm on the Palm Jumeirah—Dubai's famous man-made island development—is a great place to cool off after a few days of hectic shopping and sightseeing.

The waterslide action here is excellent and world-class, with the Aquaconda, the world's longest water slide; a nine-story-tall slide, aptly named the Leap of Faith; and water coaster rides.

There's also underwater safaris using Sea TREK helmets; a dedicated water play area for smaller children with slides; and for when all your energy has been used up, a 700-meter sweep of white-sand beach.

Address: Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Highlight: See the UAE's dramatic interior of sweeping dunes on Dubai's best day trip option

You don't have to travel far from Dubai's coastal skyline of skyscrapers to reach some of the UAE's desertscapes of rippling dunes.

Both the dune fields and desert of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and the orange-hued dunes of Maleha (actually in the Emirate of Sharjah ) are within day-tripping distance of the city.

Desert adventure tours can combine a range of activities, from sandboarding, camel rides, and 4WD safaris to traditional Arabian falconry displays and desert dinners under the stars. There are also options for overnight camping under the stars.

The typical tour itinerary, giving visitors a taster of desert life, is easily slotted into even a short trip to Dubai, taking around six hours door to door, with a mid-afternoon departure from the city.

The Dubai Desert 4x4 Safari offers a half-day desert adventure and includes a camel ride, sandboarding lessons, a sunset barbecue, and a belly dancing show.

For a less rushed tour experience, choose one of the companies that operate inside the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where trips can include wildlife drives to spot the reserve's free-roaming herds of gazelles and, if you're lucky, Arabian oryx.

Highlights: Treat yourself to one of Dubai's most famous dining experiences

The Burj Al-Arab is the world's tallest hotel, standing 321 meters high on its own artificial island on the Dubai coastline.

Designed to resemble a billowing dhow sail, the exterior of the building is lit up by a choreographed, colored lighting show at night.

Decadent in every way possible, the Burj Al-Arab is one of the most expensive hotels in the world, with the most luxurious suites costing more than $15,000 for one night.

For those without unlimited credit, the way to experience the over-the-top opulence is to book afternoon tea at Sahn Eddar (a minimum spend is required) in the soaring atrium lounge.

Non-guests can also book dinner at the Ristorante L'Olivo at Al-Mahara where floor-to-ceiling glass panels in the dining room walls allow you to view sea life while you eat, or you can enjoy French and Italian classics for lunch or dinner with city vistas at the Michelin starred Al Muntaha .

Address: Jumeirah Road, Dubai

Highlight: Cool off from the desert heat with some winter sports then shop till you drop in the mall

Mall of the Emirates is one of the city's most famous malls, with the spectacular (and surreal) Ski Dubai facility inside.

The indoor ski slope is complete with chairlifts and a penguin enclosure, all at a continuous temperature of -4 degrees Celsius.

There's also a cinema complex and a family entertainment center with a whole host of rides aimed at both the big and small.

The shopping opportunities are boundless, as are the eating options, offering every conceivable world cuisine.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Abra rides across the creek for city skyline views

Dubai Creek separates the city into two towns, with Deira to the north and Bur Dubai to the south.

The creek has been an influential element in the city's growth, first attracting settlers here to fish and pearl dive. Small villages grew up alongside the creek as far back as 4,000 years ago, while the modern era began in the 1830s when the Bani Yas tribe settled in the area.

The creek is where you come to capture city views from the water, either by taking a trip on one of the many dhows that have been restored as tourist cruise boats or by hopping on an abra (small wooden ferry) between the ferry points on the creek's Bur Dubai and Deira banks.

On the Bur Dubai side of the creek, rubbing up against the Bastakia neighborhood, the waterfront has been regenerated as the Al Seef district, with a waterfront promenade backed by traditional coral-block and limestone buildings, a floating market, and shops selling crafts. It's a great place for a stroll with excellent water views.

Farther southeast down the creek, on the Deira bank just north of Al-Maktoum Bridge, is the Dhow Wharfage. It's still used by small traders from across the Gulf who sail their dhows onward to Kuwait, Iran, Oman, India, and down to Africa's horn.

This tiny remnant of Dubai's traditional economy is a fascinating place to wander around and watch cargo being loaded and unloaded on and off the dhows.

At the southeastern end of Dubai Creek, just before the creek joins with Dubai Canal, is the newly developed Dubai Creek Harbor with a waterfront marina walkway, which offers excellent vistas of the city skyline.

Highlight: Colorful photography options amid Dubai's most creative gardens

This is the zaniest garden ever. Not content with constructing the world's largest buildings and malls, Dubai has created the world's largest flower garden. Dubai Miracle Garden spans 2,000 square meters and is home to a reputed 100 million flowers.

Everything that can be covered with flowers has been, from twee English-style cottages to windmills and trucks. There's even a flower version of the Burj Khalifa.

Stroll the walkways and enjoy the riot of color and the wacky flower displays.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Rd, Al Barsha

Highlight: Admire Dubai's vernacular Gulf architecture amid the lanes of the tiny old town quarter

The Al Fahidi Quarter (previously known, and sometimes still referred to as the Bastakia neighborhood) was built in the late 19th century to be the home of wealthy Persian merchants who dealt mainly in pearls and textiles and were lured to Dubai because of the tax-free trading and access to Dubai Creek.

Al Fahidi occupies the eastern portion of Bur Dubai along the creek, and the coral and limestone buildings here, many with walls topped with wind-towers, have been excellently preserved.

Wind-towers provided the homes here with an early form of air conditioning—the wind trapped in the towers was funneled down into the houses. Persian merchants likely transplanted this architectural element (common in Iranian coastal houses) from their home country to the Gulf.

Lined with distinct Arabian architecture, the narrow lanes are highly evocative of a bygone, and much slower, age in Dubai's history.

Inside the district, you'll find the Majlis Gallery , with its collection of traditional Arab ceramics and furniture (housed in a wind-tower), and the Al Serkal Cultural Foundation with a shop, café, and rotating art exhibitions (located in one of the historic buildings).

Highlight: Evening entertainment hub with a global cultural focus

From October through April, this entertainment park provides family-friendly entertainment themed around taking visitors on a journey around the world.

Global Village's 26 country pavilions, ranging from Iraq to Japan and Russia to South Korea, each offer an individual experience of that country's culture, entertainment, and heritage. It's a unique option in the city for evening entertainment for families with little ones in tow.

As well as the pavilions, there are plentiful dining and shopping options on-site. Younger members of the family will enjoy the fun-fair-style Carnaval with plenty of rides, such as bumper cars, carousels, Swiss swings, and a big wheel, along with faster rides and a roller coaster.

Address: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Scenic canal cruises on traditional abra boats for easygoing sightseeing

The development complex of Madinat Jumeirah is a dining and retail district with a couple of five-star hotels, all set along the palm-tree-fringed banks of an artificial canal network.

All of Madinat Jumeirah has been styled to mimic traditional Gulf architecture, with wind towers and mashrabiya detailing.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah here offers easygoing shopping, with a large variety of traditional craftwork and souvenirs from the Gulf and across the wider Middle East, but the main reason to head here is to hop on an abra (small wooden ferry) and cruise down the canal.

Abras leave regularly from Souk Madinat Jumeirah's promenade and loop around the waterway, providing plenty of photo opportunities of the lush gardens and traditional architecture of Madinat Jumeirah, with the tall swooping sail of the Burj Al Arab in the background.

Address: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Dubai

Highlight: Dubai beach life summed up with everything you need at your fingertips

This long, wide strip of sandy white bliss is the number one beach destination for Dubai visitors .

Some of Dubai's most popular beach resorts are strung out all along its length, making this one of the most popular places to stay for visitors who want to make hitting the beach a major part of their Dubai stay.

The large areas of the beach have excellent facilities, with plenty of sun loungers, restaurants, lifeguards patrolling the stretches designated for swimming, and water sports operators offering jet skiing, kayak rental, parasailing, and boat rides.

This is a safe beach choice for families traveling with tots, as the turquoise water of the Gulf lapping the shore is shallow and calm.

Address: Dubai Marina, Dubai

Highlight: Delve behind the high-rise facade to discover Dubai's heritage

Dubai's excellent museum is housed in the Al-Fahidi Fort, built in 1787 to defend Dubai Creek. The fort's walls are built out of traditional coral blocks and held together with lime. The upper floor is supported by wooden poles, and the ceiling is constructed from palm fronds, mud, and plaster.

In its history, the fort has served as a residence for the ruling family, a seat of government, garrison, and prison. Restored in 1971 (and again extensively in 1995), it is now the city's premier museum.

The entrance has a fascinating exhibition of old maps of the Emirates and Dubai, showing the mammoth expansion that hit the region after the oil boom. The courtyard is home to several traditional boats and a palm-leaf house with an Emirati wind-tower. The right-hand hall features weaponry, and the left-hand hall showcases Emirati musical instruments.

Below the ground floor are display halls with exhibits and dioramas covering various aspects of traditional Emirati life (including pearl fishing and Bedouin desert life), as well as artifacts from the 3,000- to 4,000-year-old graves at Al Qusais archaeological site.

Address: Al-Fahidi Street, Al-Fahidi

Highlights: Aerial vistas of the modern cityscape below and galleries focused on Dubai's history

Sitting slap-bang between Dubai's older neighborhoods clustered around the creek and the city's modern sprawl, this ginormous 150-meter-high picture frame is one of Dubai's latest sights.

Inside Dubai Frame , a series of galleries whisk you through the city's history and explore Emirati heritage before you travel up to the Sky Deck, where there are fantastic panoramas of both old and new Dubai to be snapped on the viewing platforms.

Afterwards check out Future Dubai gallery, which imagines what a futuristic vision of the city will look like.

Address: Zabeel Park, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road

Highlight: Take a day off sightseeing and head to the white sand for a relaxed break beside the sea

Backed by a fringe of palm trees, the stretch of La Mer Beach in Jumeirah is an easygoing spot for a full day of sun and sea.

Water sports operators here offer Jet Ski trips, boating, fly-boarding, and kayaking for beachgoers who itch to get off the sand, but for those who simply want to sloth out between swimming, there's plenty of sun lounger rental and a wide variety of cafés and restaurants just a hop from the sand for snacking and full meals.

La Mer is a sheltered bay with tranquil water, so it's a safe choice for both families and less-confident swimmers. Like all of Dubai's main beaches, it is regularly patrolled by lifeguards during the day.

If the sea and sand aren't enough, at the beach's northeast point, you'll find Laguna Waterpark, with several waterslides, a lazy river, and a surf pool.

Address: Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah

Highlight: Family-centered fun is the focus at these interconnected theme parks

At Dubai Parks and Resorts , your entertainment needs are all rolled together into one location. The only problem here is choosing what you want to do.

This mammoth project incorporates a swag of world-class theme parks providing something for everyone, whatever your age.

Motiongate takes its theme from Hollywood productions, with rides based around movie blockbusters; Bollywood Parks brings the world of India's famous movie industry alive on its rides; and Legoland Dubai and Legoland Waterpark provide younger visitors with a fun-packed day out on its interactive rides, water slides, and wave pool.

The district's attached Riverland Dubai dining hub means that there's no need to leave after you've exhausted yourself with theme park pursuits, as there's plenty of evening entertainment here as well.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Jebel Ali

Highlight: Gain greater insights into Islam on a tour of Dubai's most famous mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is considered by many to be the most beautiful of Dubai's mosques. An exact copy of Cairo's Al-Azhar Mosque, which is eight times its size, the Jumeirah Mosque is a fine example of Islamic architecture.

This stone structure is built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, with two minarets that display the subtle details in the stonework. It is particularly attractive in the evening when lit with floodlights.

The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding (which also runs a program of tours, lectures, Arabic classes, and cultural meals) organizes guided tours of the mosque designed to try to foster a better understanding of the Muslim faith.

Tours begin at 10am daily, except Fridays.

Address: Jumeirah Road

Highlight: Learn to kitesurf on one of Dubai's best water sports beaches

Thanks to its surf and prevailing wind, the northern section of Umm Suqeim Beach is Dubai's top spot for kitesurfing.

The beach is home to an array of water sports operators offering equipment hire, as well as kitesurfing lessons, along with paddleboarding and kayak rental.

This long stretch of yellow-sand beach sweeps south along the coast (becoming Umm Suqeim Beach), with plenty of space for sunbathers looking to lap up a lazy day of swimming and soaking up the rays on the sand and excellent facilities and dining choices. There are good views of the Burj Al Arab from the southern end of the beach.

While in the Jumeirah area, it's well worth brushing off the sand for an hour to visit the Majlis Ghorfat Um Al-Sheef just a three-kilometer hop from the beach. Built in 1955, this was the summer residence of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed al-Maktoum.

The residence, made out of gypsum and coral block, has been restored and maintains much of the original beautiful decor, giving you a better understanding of the opulent lifestyle of Dubai's rulers.

The Majlis Gardens feature a reproduction of an impressive Arab irrigation system, and many shady date palms.

Address: Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah, Dubai

Highlight: Take in central Dubai's skyscraper views from ground-level

Sheikh Zayed Road is the main thoroughfare running through Dubai's modern downtown business district.

This wide, eight-lane highway is rimmed with towering glass, chrome, and steel high-rises along its entire length. It's one of the best on-the-ground vantage points for Dubai's famed skyscraper views.

Main attractions are along, or just off, the strip between the roundabout and the first intersection, and most of Dubai's famous malls are located along the road's route.

The Dubai World Trade Tower has an observation deck on its top floor, which offers visitors panoramic views (a cheaper option than the Burj Khalifa), and the Gold and Diamond Park (Sheikh Zayed Road) is a one-stop shop for jewelry lovers, with 118 manufacturers and 30 retailers all under one roof.

Highlights: Adrenaline-packed rides and hours of fun for kids of all ages

The IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park, near Global Village, is immersive entertainment at its finest and has thrills and spills for both kids and big kids.

With one zone devoted entirely to Marvel's iconic characters; another to dinosaur-themed rides; and a zone where the Cartoon Network takes the helm, with gentler rides and activities for younger children, there's something here for every age.

Whether you want to help the Avengers battle Ultron, scare yourself silly in a haunted house, or join Spider-Man as he swings through the city, this is heaven for families looking for a fun-filled day out.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Shop the traditional way amid the heritage souks of Deira

Deira lies on the northern bank of Dubai Creek and the winding streets here unveil the melting pot of different nationalities that have come to call Dubai home. On the shore, ancient dhows load and unload with modern banks, hotels, and office buildings as a backdrop.

For travelers, Deira is most famous for its traditional souks (markets), which bustle with shoppers at all times of the day.

Deira Gold Souk is world-renowned as the largest gold bazaar in the world.

The Deira Spice Souk sells every imaginable spice, with stalls overflowing with bags of frankincense, cumin, paprika, saffron, sumac, and thyme, as well as the fragrant oud wood, rose water, and incense.

The fish market provides a much less touristy experience.

While in the district, culture lovers shouldn't miss two of Deira's finely restored architectural gems. Heritage House was built in 1890 as the home of a wealthy Iranian merchant and later became the home of Sheik Ahmed bin Dalmouk (a famous pearl merchant in Dubai). Today, it's a great chance to see the interior of a traditional family home.

The Al-Ahmadiya School, constructed in 1912, is the oldest school in Dubai and is now a museum of public education.

Highlight: Get the best aerial views of the city with Dubai's best thrill-seeker activity

For the ultimate sightseeing adrenaline rush while you're in the city, tandem-skydive over Dubai from Skydive Dubai's Palm Drop Zone.

There are bird's-eye views of the city's skyscraper coastline, Dubai Marina, and the artificial islands of Palm Jumeirah, all the way down the 3,900-meter-high plunge.

The entire experience takes around 90 minutes and includes the flight; an instructor you'll be harnessed to during the skydive; and a skydiving camera operator, who'll take pictures during your dive.

If you prefer desert dune scenery, Skydive Dubai also operates a separate tandem-skydiving experience in the desert, about 35 kilometers out of the city.

Skydiving in Dubai is an activity you need to book as far in advance as possible due to limited numbers and the high popularity of the experience.

Highlight: Enjoy the best of Dubai's cultural life while on your trip

For nighttime attractions, look no further. Opened in mid-2016, Dubai's classy new opera building is the centerpiece of the waterfront district in downtown Dubai and is a major cultural hub and main entertainment venue.

The Dubai Opera hosts a year-round program of famous musical theater productions, concerts by world-class musicians, opera, ballet, and classical music, as well as smaller productions, comedy nights, and concerts.

The 2,000-seat theater building itself is an astonishing piece of architectural mastery and one of Dubai's new landmarks, with its highly-contemporary glass and steel walls jutting out over the waterfront, built to resemble the curves of a traditional dhow.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road

Highlight: Take a nature break without leaving the city

Escape the city's skyscrapers for an afternoon at the Dubai Butterfly Garden . For a slice of nature, this vast butterfly garden, with around 15,000 butterflies flitting under the domed enclosures, can't be beaten.

It's a great chance for kids to get close-up views of butterflies as they often land on visitors' shoulders and hands.

There's a museum here, too, with plenty of information on butterfly varieties, their habitats, and life cycle.

Highlight: Explore Dubai's sea-going heritage and life along this coastline before the contemporary city

Dubai's architectural, cultural, and maritime heritage is showcased at the Heritage and Diving Village, with displays related to pearl diving and dhow building—two of old Dubai's historic economic mainstays.

There are also recreations of traditional Bedouin and coastal village life, with Persian homes, a traditional coffeehouse, and a small souk where potters and weavers practice their handicrafts at the stalls.

Local music and dance are performed from October to April, and visitors can get advice from practitioners of traditional medicine.

Location: Shindagha, Bur Dubai

Highlight: Spend an early morning spotting flamingos and other birds amid the city's wetlands

You don't have to go too far away from the skyscrapers to soak up a more natural vista. The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary incorporates the mangrove forests and wetlands of Dubai creek.

An important stop-off on the migration routes, it's a prime place to spot flamingos in winter when massive flocks of these majestic pink birds wade through the lagoons, backdropped by soaring high-rises.

Various hides in prime spots have been set up within the park to allow bird watchers good views of the birdlife.

Address: Ras Al Khor Street, Dubai

Highlight: Delve into Dubai's history amid the museums of this royal complex

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum was the Ruler of Dubai from 1921 to 1958 and grandfather to the current ruler. His former residence has been rebuilt and restored as a museum that is a fine example of Arabian architecture.

The original house was built in 1896 by Sheikh Saeed's father, so he could observe shipping activity from the balconies.

It was demolished, but the current house was rebuilt next to the original site, staying true to the original model by incorporating carved teak doors, wooden lattice screens across the windows, and gypsum ventilation screens with floral and geometric designs.

Thirty rooms are built around a central courtyard with wind-tower details on top.

Inside are the exhibits of the Dubai Museum of Historical Photographs and Documents with many wonderful old photographs of Dubai from the period between 1948 and 1953.

The marine wing of the museum has photos of fishing, pearling, and boat building. Throughout the building there are many letters, maps, coins, and stamps on display showing the development of the Emirate.

Nearby is the Crossroads of Civilizations Museum , which explores the United Arab Emirates' historic role as a trading center between Asia, Africa, and Europe long before oil became this region's most prominent industry.

Located inside the old residence of Sheikh Hashr bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, who was a member of Dubai's ruling family, the exhibits trace this coastal area's history as part of the global trade routes, with displays of artifacts and manuscripts.

Also on-site are the Rare Books and Manuscripts Museum and the small Armory Museum.

Address: Al Khaleej Road, Bur Dubai

Highlight: Explore Dubai's burgeoning contemporary art scene

Part of the old Al Quoz industrial district, Al Serkal Avenue has been regenerated to become Dubai's main arts hub and is home to some of the city's most important contemporary art galleries.

Established gallery names such as the Green Art Gallery , The Third Line and the Ayyam Gallery have made their home here, while a host of smaller gallery start-ups have also moved in.

The district's program of rotating collections focuses both on the work of major artists, as well as highlighting new Middle Eastern talent.

This emerging district is also the place to come for fashion and accessory boutiques by local designers, pop-up restaurants, and café life, and it showcases the energetic and youthful buzz of a city, which is usually more noted for its corporate face.

Address: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz Industrial District

As well as Dubai's glut of theme parks, a stay in the city can incorporate plenty more active things to do.

There are plentiful desert tours that head out beyond the skyscrapers if you want the kids to sample more natural scenery. Many of the tours include sandboarding or camel riding.

To stick to the coast, the beaches and resorts offer kayak hire, as well as a bundle of other water sports to get the kids working off some energy in the sea.

And for those who enjoy the complete oddity of having some snow-fun amid the heat, the indoor ski run at Mall of the Emirates can't be beaten.

For easy access to Dubai's top tourist attractions, the best place to stay is Downtown Dubai.

Prime attractions nearby include the landmark Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building; Dubai Mall; and the Dubai Fountain. You'll also find plenty of shops, restaurants, and art galleries in this vibrant precinct.

If you're seeking some sun, sand, and sea, Jumeira and Dubai Marina lay about 15 minutes by car from Burj Khalifa and are also popular bases for tourists.

Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient and central locations for touring the city:

Luxury Hotels:

• The Palace Downtown Dubai is a five-star resort right in the heart of Downtown Dubai, combining traditional Arabic design features with contemporary facilities, all overlooking Burj Khalifa Lake. There's a pool, spa, and restaurants on-site.
• Armani Hotel offers rooms decked out in sophisticated luxury. It's set in the Burj Khalifa, for a stay in the top address in Downtown Dubai, with a pool and spa on-site.
• Burj Al Arab is Dubai's most iconic stay, set on its own manmade island, with palatial interiors, world-class restaurants, and suite-style rooms that overlook the waters of the Gulf.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai is in a top-notch location in Downtown Dubai, neighboring the Dubai Opera. There's excellent in-house facilities, including a pool, restaurants, and gym, and the spacious, modern rooms all come with balconies.
• Manzil Downtown by Vida is a classy, contemporary boutique hotel option with a large outdoor pool area and white-on-white rooms that incorporate modern Arabesque design features into their interiors. It's in a handy, central location in Downtown Dubai.
• Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach sits on Dubai's The Walk promenade, in Jumeirah so it's a top choice for those who want a waterfront location. There's a large pool area, private beach and plenty of resort facilities. It's about a 12-minute drive to the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai from here.

Budget Hotels:

• XVA Art Hotel offers contemporary boutique-hotel style within a traditional Dubai building, right in the heart of the historic Al Fahidi (Old Dubai) district.
• Ibis Dubai Al Rigga is a great budget choice thanks to its central Deira position, close to Dubai Creek and the city's major historic tourist attractions, as well as its well-equipped, small rooms and in-house facilities, including two restaurants and a gym.
• Ibis Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel , next door to the namesake mall with Ski Dubai, is a popular option with both business and leisure travelers thanks to its modern, good-value rooms and solid facilities, including two on-site restaurants.
• See the Sights : Dubai Private Modern or Traditional Dubai Tour is one of the most convenient ways to see the city's sights. This half-day guided tour takes you to the main attractions, including Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai Museum, Deira Gold Souq, and more.
• Soar over the City: Dubai Helicopter Tour offers incredible views across the city and desert surroundings on a 15-minute or 25-minute helicopter ride. There is no better way to see the famous Palm Jumeirah or the manmade archipelago created in the shape of a world map, known as The World, than from the air.

By far, the best times to visit Dubai are the months of November, December, January, February, March, and April when the weather is, in general, at its most pleasant. This is peak tourism season, though, so prepare for hotel prices to be at their highest.

Keen shoppers after discounts galore should head here during January when the entire month is devoted to the Dubai Shopping Festival. Be aware that January is Dubai's coldest month, though, with an average high of 23 degrees Celsius and temperatures dropping as low as 14 degrees.

For the best weather, particularly if you're going to hit the beach or head out into the desert during your trip, plan to travel here during the months of November or April when the average daytime temperatures sit between 25 and 26 degrees Celsius, and only peak as high as 31 degrees.

These two months usher in plenty of blue skies and sunshine for outdoor activities, but without the scorching heat of summer. Whichever month you choose, pack a warmer layer. You will need it to counter the ferocious air conditioning of Dubai's many indoor venues.

Other Considerations When Timing Your Visit to Dubai

Before deciding on which month to visit, check out when Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting is happening. During this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sundown every day. The Islamic calendar is lunar, so the dates for Ramadan shift every year.

Ramadan in the UAE is strictly followed, and eating, drinking, chewing gum, and smoking in all public spaces is forbidden from daybreak to sunset for everyone, including non-Muslims.

Although some restaurants, mostly those based in international brand hotels and usually one designated café in a mall, will still serve food during the day (with blinds pulled down across the restaurant windows, so that those fasting don't need to see people eating) nearly all restaurants and cafés shut during daylight hours and only open up at sunset.

From sunset onwards, it's feasting time, with many hotels and restaurants putting on special Iftar (the Ramadan after sunset meal) menus, which need to be pre-booked due to high demand.

Businesses, including tourist sights and shops, are open, but keep shorter hours for the entire month.

A benefit of visiting during Ramadan is that the city is less busy than usual, as many Dubai locals decide to head on holiday during this month, and the city also receives fewer tourists.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Beyond Dubai: To dive into the UAE's other cities, check out our articles on things to do in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah . If you want to learn about the beach resorts beyond Dubai, have a look at our feature pieces on Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman .

More on United Arab Emirates

Detailed Dubai Itinerary for up to 7 Days (+Map & Planning Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Visiting Dubai in the United Arab Emirates for the first time and wondering how to plan your trip so that you can see most of the top sights in Dubai?

What are the ‘must-sees’? How many days do you need? And how to plan your time so that you can make the most out of your trip, no matter the duration…

In this guide, we share  a recommended Dubai itinerary for 7 days.  Why 7? Because this is about the minimum amount of time you need if you want to see most of the top places in Dubai, take a day trip to Abu Dhabi (must-do!), and keep your trip somewhat relaxed and enjoyable.

Our suggested one-week Dubai itinerary is described below in detail, including the map indicating all the top sights and attractions. We also included our experience-based tips to help you with the practical side of planning a trip (such as which tickets to pre-book in order to avoid disappointment).

If your trip is shorter and you have less than a week in Dubai, you can simply adjust our recommended Dubai itinerary based on your interests and the time that you have. To make it easier to decide what to see, we listed the very best places and top attractions first. So for example, with three days in Dubai, follow the itinerary described on days 1, 2, and 3. With 5 days in Dubai, follow the recommendations for the first 5 days, etc.

Of course, you can also ‘mix and match’, pick the activities that interest you the most, switch the days around, and plan your own perfect trip. Use this just as inspiration for the top places to see and what can actually be done in Dubai in a week. And if your trip is shorter, you can also find some suggestions for half a day, a day or two in our guide on planning a stopover in Dubai .

Dubai Itinerary Overview & Map

Here you can see our recommended Dubai itinerary in a nutshell as well as the map indicating all the top sights mentioned in our article.

Further below, you can find a detailed day-by-day itinerary with more info, tips, and photos. It will give you a better idea of what to expect and how to plan your time so that you can see the very best of Dubai in a week or less.

This is our recommended 7-day itinerary for your first trip to Dubai:

• DAY 1: Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa) + Museum of the Future
• DAY 2: Old Dubai + Desert Tour
• DAY 3: Burj Al Arab, The Palm, Marina
• DAY 4: Abu Dhabi Day Trip
• DAY 5: Dubai Miracle Garden + Global Village or IMG Worlds of Adventure
• DAY 6: Waterpark (or an alternative day trip)
• DAY 7: Dubai Frame + AYA Universe + iFly Dubai

Good to know: In this itinerary, we grouped the best places to see in Dubai and top activities based on their location and the time that you need in order to visit them and to travel in between. Traffic can be really busy, so it’s important to keep that in mind when planning your Dubai sightseeing itinerary! For more tips, be sure to also read our Dubai travel tips .

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Practical Info & Planning Tips

Here is some practical information to help to plan your trip to Dubai:

Getting around: The cheapest and fastest way to cover big distances in Dubai is the metro. However, depending on where you are staying/going, a taxi is a very good and affordable option as well. See our guide to Dubai public transport for more info.

Renting a car is quite affordable, but parking can be a real hassle in Dubai. Plus, most guided tours include pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, so renting a car is not really a must.

Where to stay: For a short trip to Dubai with sightseeing as the main focus, stay close to Dubai Mall (e.g. Sofitel Dubai Downtown ). If you are staying for a week or longer, consider the Dubai Marina area (e.g. JW Marriott Hotel Marina ) or Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) near the Marina (e.g. Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach ).

Our experience: We tend to stay on the beach when visiting Dubai. Once we stayed at Doubletree by Hilton JBR Beach , and recently we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel which is at the beach, but also close to the Dubai Mall area. This area is still under development but has a very hip and relaxed feeling.

Tickets and tours: If you wonder whether you need to pre-book anything/everything, my advice is simple: if you don’t want to miss it, be sure to book it in advance. Tickets to the most popular attractions in Dubai often sell out, some even weeks upfront. And even if you can get them on the spot, they are usually (a lot) more expensive than online. For tours, it depends. Usually, you should be able to book last minute, but if you find a tour you like, just reserve it.

Good to know: Most of the attraction tickets and tours we recommend can be booked via the GetYourGuide website which offers very flexible cancelation so you have nothing to lose. This is the website we personally used for all our tickets and tours in Dubai. In our detailed day-to-day itinerary below, you can find more information about tickets and tours that we recommend.

Please note that all the hours in our itinerary are only indicated for your reference so that you have a better idea of how much time approximately you need everywhere. Don’t forget to foresee plenty of buffer time between the attractions that work with timed entry slots!

Museum of the Future – Sky Views Observatory – Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa – Dubai Fountains.

Day 1 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Museum of the Future – timed entry tickets (book at least a few weeks in advance!).
• Sky Views – timed entry tickets or tickets + Edge Walk .
• Burj Khalifa – timed entry tickets (book well in advance!).
• Optional: Burj Lake boat ride , Dubai Aquarium .

Good to know: Some of these attractions can also be booked together, as a combo deal. For example, Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium ticket can save you about $20 per person. You can find more options and bundle deals here .

Here’s what your first day in Dubai could look like:

Museum of The Future

9.30 – 11.30 AM.

Start your day with one of the most popular attractions in Dubai – the Museum of the Future . The iconic building is one of the most remarkable landmarks of Dubai and the museum is the most sought-after ticket in the UAE.

A visit to this museum gives you a peek into the future of space travel and climate change, but also health, robotics, and AI. With lots of interactive displays, it’s an interesting place that the whole family will enjoy. But frankly, a lot depends on your expectations – some people love it, others say it’s over-hyped. Either way, it’s worth visiting even if just for the remarkable architecture.

PRO TIP: Book your tickets for this museum well in advance. They are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. In addition, if you want to be able to pick a time slot as well, you really should book at least a month in advance.

Practical info: The museum is open from early morning and you will need a couple of hours for a visit. So ideally you start your day here and keep the afternoon for the Dubai Mall area. Booking the first time slot is also the best way to enjoy the exhibits without a big crowd!

12 – 1.30 PM

Next, take a metro to Dubai Mall. It’s just two metro stops from the Museum of the Future and as you exit the station, you’ll be right at the next place we recommend visiting – Sky Views. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi, just be sure to ask them to drop you off at the right place depending on what you decide to visit first (the Dubai Mall area is huge!).

Sky Views is an observatory at 720 ft (219.5 meters), offering some of the best 360° views of Downtown Dubai. From here, you have an unparalleled view of the iconic Burj Khalifa, which is located just nearby but also at a nice distance to admire it to the fullest.

In addition to the viewing platform, there is also a glass-bottom walkway , a bit like at Dubai Frame (more about it on day 7 of this itinerary).

Plus, all tickets include one go on the Sky Glass Slide , a short transparent tube that ‘floats’ at the side of the building. Don’t worry – it’s not nearly as exciting as it sounds, and frankly, I’m still not sure if I would queue for it for almost an hour again… But if it’s not too busy, be sure to give it a try. It’s fun!

Good to know: At an additional cost, you can get a ticket that includes the Sky Edge Walk . Attached with a harness, you walk on an open platform on the 52nd floor. This looks so cool and could easily become one of the best experiences you do in Dubai.

Since one of our kids has a serious fear of heights, I couldn’t try the Sky Edge yet (on the most recent trip, I was in Dubai alone with the children, so hanging on the side of a building while the kids waited inside wasn’t really an option ;)). But if you are up for it, give it a try – it looks amazing and everyone we talked to who did it was very enthusiastic.

Talking about heights, the same kid was totally ok with the glass slide, but he wouldn’t step on a glass-bottom walkway… Go figure…

Practical information: Book timed-entry tickets (with or without the Sky Edge Walk option) in advance. To be on the safe side, give yourself at least half an hour to get to Sky Views Observatory from the Museum of the Future. The metro ride is just 3 minutes, but you also need to walk to the metro and find your way around the Dubai Mall station, etc.

AFTERNOON + EVENING.

Next, time to visit the famous Dubai Mall . Inside, you will find plenty of places for lunch . From fine dining options and pricier restaurants overlooking Dubai Fountains to lower-budget fast-food chains, the choice is overwhelming.

The entrance to Burj Khalifa is also located here, at the lower level of the Mall. Depending on your preference for daytime or nighttime views and/or which time slot you can get for Burj Khalifa (more info below), you can explore the Dubai Mall first or after visiting the tower.

The Dubai Mall complex is so huge and has so much to offer that you could easily spend an entire day and still not see part of it! In addition to hundreds of stores and restaurants, you will also find all kinds of family-friendly attractions here, including an indoor ice skating rink, KidZania , MirrorMaze, cinemas, indoor playgrounds, and many others.

TIP: Do not miss the Dubai Mall Waterfall and Dubai Aquarium. Both can be admired for free, but if you want to visit the aquarium inside, you’ll need a ticket (and it’s really expensive for what it is and even worse if you didn’t think to get your tickets online…). So if you want to visit here, consider this combo ticket with Burj Khalifa (and book in advance!).

Good to know: Dubai Mall is huge and overwhelming for a first-time visitor. There are multiple levels, interconnected with countless staircases and elevators, plus multiple entrances and exits. So foresee plenty of time for everything and don’t plan too many attractions on the same day. Or do the things you absolutely want to do first and then see if you still have time and energy left for the rest.

Burj Khalifa

The highest building in the world, Burj Khalifa is the most popular tourist attraction in Dubai. While you can admire this iconic building from outside as much as you like, you will need a ticket to visit the ‘At the Top’ experience.

There are several options for which levels you can visit, and ticket prices vary depending on that, but also on the time of the day when you come.

The standard ticket includes levels 124 and 125 and gives you access to unparalleled 360° views over Dubai and the Arabian Gulf. You can also opt for this ticket that includes levels 124 and 125 as well as lunch or dinner at Rooftop, The Burj Club.

PRO TIP: We recommend getting this ticket that includes access to SKY Level 148 (in addition to standard levels). This ticket also gives you priority access to security and the elevator, which will save you a lot of time and stress. That’s worth a higher price in itself. It also includes an introductory tour with a guest ambassador and access to the lounge with snacks and hot drinks (except during the daytime in the month of Ramadan).

Practical information: The busiest and most expensive time to visit Burj Khalifa is ‘around’ sunset, which in practice means the entire late afternoon. For example, if the sunset is at 6.30 PM, ticket prices are higher between 3 PM and sunset time… But if you only enter at 6.30, the sun will long be gone by the time you get to the top, so I see no point in paying more for the time slots that are too close to the actual sunset time…

TIP: If you want to enjoy daytime views, the sunset, and night views, book a time slot about 1.5-2 hours before the sunset. That way, you should be able to get to the top in time, even if there are long queues. Alternatively, as already said before, get priority tickets which will save you a lot of queueing.

Dubai Fountains & Burj Lake Boat Ride

+-15-30 MINUTES.

No trip to Dubai would be complete without seeing the famous Dubai Fountains show at Burj Lake . You can find these fountains outside of the Dubai Mall, at the foot of Burj Khalifa.

While this area is always nice to explore and walk around, the best time to be here is in the evening, when you can see a musical show and the fountains dancing with the backdrop of Burj Khalifa.

The fountain schedule is as follows: daily at 1 PM and 1.30 PM, plus every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM. On Fridays, there is no show at 1 PM, but there is one at 2 PM. The shows are always slightly different and if you come here in the evening, you’ll likely catch a few of them.

TIP: In addition to seeing the fountains from land, you can also opt for a short scenic boat ride on Burj Lake . These boats also give you a front-row seat during a fountain show. It looks very touristy, but the kids wanted to do it on our recent trip and we all enjoyed it more than I expected. It’s quite affordable for Dubai standards and we all found that it was well worth it. It’s also a nice way to rest your legs a bit after all the sightseeing.

Spend the rest of your day/evening in the Dubai Mall area. Afterward, take a metro or a taxi back to your hotel.

Good to know: The taxi and Uber stands at the Dubai Mall are located at one of the underground levels, quite far from the Dubai Fountains, and are very confusing to find (plus, the taxi stand is not the same as the one for Uber).

So if you want to call it a day after visiting the fountains, simply walk to any public road on either side of Burj Lake and call a taxi from there – it’s so much easier! For example, there is a taxi drop-off point on the main road behind the Dubai Opera.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood – Dubai Creek – Traditional Souks – Dubai Desert.

Day 2 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Old Dubai – we recommend visiting with a guided tour .
• Dubai Desert tour – there are many options including various activities .

When you think of Dubai, you probably associate it with skyscrapers and all the iconic modern-day landmarks. However, no trip to Dubai would be complete without exploring its old town and the desert.

So on your second day, we recommend that you spend some time getting to know the more traditional side of Dubai.

Here is what your day could look like:

9.30 AM – 12.30 PM.

In the morning, take a couple of hours to explore the Old Dubai.

Start at the nicely restored Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood . Here, you can find several low-key museums and a few traditional restaurants, but the best thing to do is simply walk around the area. Here, you will find a completely different Dubai, as it used to look in the not-so-distant past.

Afterward, take a ride on a traditional Abra boat to the northern side of Dubai Creek. Here, you will find the two most popular traditional markets in Dubai: the Spice Souk and Gold Souk .

TIP: We recommend visiting this area with a local guide . Not only because it’s easier and you don’t need to plan anything, but it’s also a nice way to get to know more about the history of the UAE and learn about local traditions and customs. Plus, you can get some tips for haggling at the markets.

Good to know: There are many tours that visit the Old Town. They all cover pretty much the same places, including the boat ride. Most tours take about 3 hours, are very affordable, and have great reviews. The main difference is that some of them include some/more local food and drinks.

Frankly, it’s really hard to choose a tour. I wasted hours reading descriptions and reviews and was still none the wiser… So save yourself the trouble and just pick any highly-rated tour that suits your itinerary and you should be fine.

In the end, we chose this guided tour because it includes quite a lot of local food at one of the best traditional restaurants (in addition to the markets and other sights that all tours visit). But if you are less interested in food and more in the area, you can find plenty of cheaper tours as well. Most of them include at least one local snack too.

On our first visit to Dubai many years ago, we opted for a bit longer city tour that included a few other areas as well. The old town part of both these tours was very similar.

After visiting the old town, get back to your hotel and take some time to relax and enjoy the pool. Depending on the location of your hotel, which desert tour you booked, and the pick-up time for the tour, you should have a couple of hours of free time.

Good to know: When booking a tour that includes a pick-up/drop-off at your accommodation, keep in mind, that they will usually pick you up about 30-45 minutes before the official starting time. If you book tours online, they will usually reach out to you via WhatsApp either the evening before or in the morning.

TIP: Don’t eat too much for lunch if you book a desert tour that includes a BBQ dinner. There is so much food on these tours (and it’s delicious) – you won’t be hungry. Plus, if you opt for a dune-bashing in a jeep, it’s better that you haven’t eaten too much just before that…

Desert Safari

3 – 10 PM.

A visit to the desert is another experience that should be in any Dubai itinerary. No matter which tour you choose, you are in for a good time, but be sure to read tour descriptions so that you know what exactly to expect!

There are  many desert tour options , either about 4 or 7 hours. Unless you want to go on a hot air balloon (in which case it will likely be in the morning), we recommend looking into afternoon/evening tours that include a BBQ dinner.

On these longer tours, there is usually one main activity, such as a 4×4 dune safari in a jeep, a quad bike ride, or a camel ride. The rest of the time is spent in a Bedouin camp where you can find all kinds of different experiences (sandboarding, taking pictures with falcons or camels, traditional dance shows, henna painting, etc.) which are all included with the tour.

The food on these tours is usually very good and plentiful. Water is included and most of the time, soft drinks and local warm beverages are included as well.

Our experience:  We have been on two different desert tours in Dubai (on different trips). They were both evening tours including dinner, had very similar itineraries, and were both very good. The main activity on  the first tour we did was dune bashing in a jeep. Other activities included sandboarding, a very short camel ride, a traditional Tanoura dance show, etc.

On a recent trip, we opted for  this highly-rated tour . The main activity this time was a 45-minute camel ride. Other activities included taking pictures with falcons, henna tattoos, shisha pipe, traditional dance shows, a fire show, etc.

Good to know: Just like with the old town tours, there are so many desert tour options that it can be overwhelming to pick one. First, decide what you want to do – for example, quad biking , a camel ride , etc. Then, read the description so that you know what’s included. For example, many tours include a short camel ride (for a picture), but only very few do a longer trek through the desert.

In general, all these tours are quite similar, and – at least in our experience – very good. Just be sure you know what you are booking so that you don’t end up on a quad bike while you were expecting to sit on a camel…

Burj Al Arab – Souk Madinat Jumeirah – The Palm – JBR Beach – Dubai Marina.

Day 3 – some ideas for activities on this day:

• Inside tour or a Royal Suites tour + gold cappuccino .
• The View at The Palm Observatory
• Sightseeing Helicopter Ride
• Luxury Yacht Sightseeing Tour .
• Zip Line Across Marina .
• Marina E-scooter Tour .

On your third day in Dubai, we recommend visiting the area around Burj Al Arab, The Palm, and Dubai Marina and potentially also the nearby JBR Beach .

If you just walk around without visiting many attractions, then you can easily see all these places in a day. If, however, you opt for any of the activities, you will have to adjust your itinerary depending on the place/time of whatever you decide to do.

There are a lot of attractions that you can choose from on this day, but none of them are ‘must-do’. So a lot depends on your interests and budget. Also, don’t book too many different activities at different locations for the same day, and keep traffic in mind.

Here is what your third day in Dubai could look like:

Burj Al Arab & Souk Madinat Jumeirah

+-10 AM – 1 PM.

The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Dubai. It’s renowned as one of the world’s most luxurious hotels with lavish interiors and extravagant experiences.

You can just see the hotel from the outside, or you can also book a tour of the interior . If you want to get a taste of true luxury, upgrade to this luxury tour which includes their world-famous gold cappuccino and a visit to the 25th floor where you can see the Royal Suites.

Set against the backdrop of the Burj Al Arab, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a bustling souk with traditional Middle Eastern charm. This area also has some picturesque waterways offering nice views of the Burj Al Arab.

Good to know: Depending on what you decide to do in this area, you can visit both places in about half an hour. If you book one of the tours, you’ll need at least 2 hours. In that case, we recommend booking the earliest tour, at 10 AM, and having lunch at the souk.

+- 1.30 – 3 PM.

The Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island shaped like a giant palm tree. Stretching into the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, The Palm is connected to the mainland with bridges and tunnels. The island is home to a large number of luxurious hotels and opulent residences.

One of the most famous attractions here is Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis Hotel, but since you need at least a day for it, we recommend visiting the water park separately – see day 6 of our itinerary.

On this day, I would just focus on sightseeing. The best place to be is The View at The Palm Observatory from where you can enjoy nice 360° views including a good overview of this unique island. Alternatively, for even better aerial views, you can also opt for a sightseeing tour by helicopter .

If you are looking for nice views and want to relax at the pool, you could also check out the Aura Skypool . Keep in mind that no kids are allowed and that you will need to reserve a specific time slot in advance.

Good to know: Also here, the timing will depend on the activities you choose to do. If you just visit The Palm Observatory (and prebook timed entry tickets in advance!), 1 – 1.5 hours should be sufficient. A helicopter tour takes less time and is better organized, but you also need to arrive a bit earlier, etc. so to be on the safe side, I’d plan about an hour as well.

Dubai Marina

LATE AFTERNOON & EVENING.

Next, head to Dubai Marina , just 10 minutes drive from The Palm. Or – if you want to make the most out of your day – visit Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR Beach) first and then the Marina after that (the two areas are just next to each other).

The JBR – Marina Beach has a very nice waterfront area with access to a public beach and many cafes and restaurants. In the distance, you can also see the Dubai Eye (Ain Dubai), the world’s largest Ferris wheel. However, it’s been closed for years. The area is nice, but since it’s on a separate ‘island’, you would need quite a lot of extra time to visit there.

Dubai Marina is one of the nicest walkable areas to explore in Dubai. There is not one specific place that you ‘must’ see here and the best thing is to simply walk around along the Marina Walk (see our map for details). On the way, you can also visit the Marina Mall . Alternatively, consider joining a guided e-scooter tour – it’s a great way to see a lot of this vast area without having to walk.

In addition, there are quite a lot of activities that you can do at Dubai Marina. The most popular are luxury yacht sightseeing tours . If you are interested in water sports, you can go jet skiing or parasailing . Adrenaline seekers will love the zip line across the Marina …

TIP: Dubai Marina is also very nice in the evening. The atmosphere is great, there are lots of good restaurants, etc. So no matter how you plan this day of your Dubai itinerary, I recommend that you end it at the Marina. Scenic boat cruises in the dark are also really great, offering wonderful night-time views of the Marina skyline.

Good to know: We recommend at least an hour or two for the Marina Walk. In addition, boat tours in this area are really worth your time and some of them can take 2-3 hours. All in all, I would plan a good half a day in this area.

Day 4 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Abu Dhabi day tour – there are tons of options .

No trip to Dubai would be complete without visiting Abu Dhabi , the capital city of the UAE. It’s about 1.5- 2 hours drive from Dubai, so doable as a day trip.

Just to be clear – there is a lot more to see and do in Abu Dhabi than you could possibly see in a day.

Half a day tour is a good option if you are really short on time and just want to visit the main landmark – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. But with a week in Dubai, you could definitely spare a day. So we recommend taking a full-day tour to Abu Dhabi. That way, you can see several other places and get a much better idea of what Abu Dhabi is like.

Abu Dhabi Day Trip

Our experience: We booked this highly-rated day tour and I can highly recommend it. It’s one of the most complete Abu Dhabi tours I could find.

It includes a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Etihad Towers observation deck, and the Royal Palace, Qasr Al Watan.

For more information, the best tour options, and tips for planning a day trip to Abu Dhabi, please see our detailed guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Abu Dhabi Day Tour From Dubai

Days 1-4 of our recommended Dubai itinerary include most of the must-sees. But there are quite a few other attractions that are also very popular and considered ‘must do’. However, I find that a lot depends on who you are traveling with, what your interests are, and also on your budget.

Anyway, to help you plan your time, we highlight several of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai on days 5-7 of this itinerary. We grouped them taking into account their location so that you can make the most out of your time. Take a look below!

Day 5 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Dubai Miracle Garden – ticket .
• Global Village – tickets .
• Optional: Dubai Butterfly Garden .
• Alternative for families: IMG Worlds of Adventure .

Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village are located very close to each other and can be easily visited on the same day/evening. There are also tours/private transfers that can bring you to both places (in about 6 hours).

Good to know: The Miracle Garden is open from 9 AM until 9 PM (11 PM on weekends) so could be visited at any time. However, Global Village is only open from 4 PM (6 PM during Ramadan) until midnight (1 AM on weekends). Furthermore, Tuesdays are reserved for families and women.

TIP: You could spend a good part of this day at the pool/beach and only do sightseeing in the late afternoon/evening. Or, if you absolutely want to make the most out of your time, you could also visit the Dubai Butterfly Garden which is located just next to Miracle Garden.

Alternatively, families might enjoy a visit to IMG Worlds of Adventure , one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world. The tickets are pricey so if you opt for this, you’ll likely want to spend the whole day here.

Miracle Garden

+- 1-2 HOURS.

Miracle Garden Dubai is a huge floral wonderland with over 150 million flowers. It boasts a breathtaking array of meticulously crafted floral displays, sculptures, castles, and all kinds of structures, all adorned with millions – yes, millions – of blooming flowers.

Some of their sculptures have won various Guinness World Records. You probably already get the vibe in the UAE – everything is big, bigger, the biggest… This impressive garden is no exception. They even have a flowery version of the Emirates A380 airbus, covered in more than 500,000 fresh flowers and plants. 

However, remember that you are in the middle of a desert so it’s difficult to keep most plants alive in a climate like this. That’s probably the reason why the overwhelming majority of flowers are petunias, in just a few different colors.

Good to know: Book tickets in advance and count about 1-2 hours for a visit here. The morning hours are the quietest, but if you want to visit Global Village as well, then it’s best to come in the afternoon and visit both places together.

Global Village

+- 3-4 HOURS.

Global Village Dubai offers an immersive cultural experience taking you on a journey ‘around the world’. The name pretty much says it all – it’s a place where you can experience different cultures while exploring pavilions, each representing another country.

Over 90 countries are represented, showcasing their unique heritage, traditions, products, and traditional foods. From sampling diverse cuisines to shopping for handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs from around the globe, there’s something for everyone. In addition, they also have live performances, cultural shows, carnival rides, etc.

Good to know: Global Village is one of the most affordable attractions in Dubai and regular tickets cost just a few bucks. However, this is just a ticket to get inside and you’ll have to pay extra for most of the attractions – a bit like visiting a country fair. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours here.

TIP: Global Village is one of the most visited attractions in Dubai, popular with locals as well as international tourists. So avoid weekends and try to be at the entrance a bit before it opens because it quickly fills up. Friday and Saturday evenings can get crazy busy.

Day 6 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Atlantis Aquaventure – various ticket options .
• Wild Wadi – entry ticket .
• Dubai LEGOLAND – water park or theme park .

Alternative ideas for this day:

• Snorkeling day trip to Fujairah .
• Al Ain ‘Garden City’ day trip .
• Half-day camel trekking .
• Half-day falconry safari .

If you have a week in Dubai, we highly recommend visiting at least one of the water parks, especially if you are traveling with children or teenagers and there’s only that much sightseeing they can handle in the hot desert climate.

But no worries if you are not interested in spending a day on water slides, there are tons of other amazing things to do in and near Dubai. In that case, see our alternative suggestions above . For more info about waterparks – see below.

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark & Lost Chambers Aquarium

There are several water parks in Dubai. By far the best and most popular is Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm , the biggest water park in the world. With over 100 rides and attractions, Aquaventure has something to offer for the whole family. You can also meet dolphins and sea lions, and enjoy all kinds of water sports. In addition, you can visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium which is located just near the water park entrance.

Wild Wadi and LEGOLAND Water Park are also nice water parks. They are much smaller, with about 30 rides and attractions at Wild Wadi and about 20 at LEGOLAND.

These water parks are nice for families with younger kids and are incomparably less busy than Aquaventure. But if you want to experience the very best waterpark in Dubai, Aquaventure wins every time.

Good to know: You can spend the entire day at any of these water parks.

PRO TIP: Atlantis Aquaventure tickets are cheaper if booked online and over a week in advance. We recommend a combo ticket that includes entry to the Lost Chambers Aquarium (it’s open late in the evening so you can easily visit after you leave the water park). For more tips and helpful information for your visit, see our detailed guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

Day 7 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Dubai Frame – timed-entry tickets .
• AYA Universe – timed-entry tickets .
• Optional: iFly Dubai and/or Green Planet Indoor Rainforest .

On the last day of this itinerary, I want to highlight some additional experiences that we personally really enjoyed on a recent trip to Dubai. They are located not too far from each other in the northern part of the city (not too far from the airport) and could be done on the same day.

If you want to take it easy on your last day in Dubai, you could also just visit one or two of these attractions and spend the rest of the time chilling by the pool.

The two places that we recommend the most are Dubai Frame and AYA Universe. Our kids also LOVED iFly Dubai , but it’s located quite a bit further away and is probably also not for everyone’s interests. The Green Planet indoor rainforest is also amazing (and definitely not just for kids). You can find more info about each of these below.

Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame cannot be missed (quite literally). You will see this architectural landmark towering in the city skyline when driving around the city and from many other places. But if you want to visit it, you’ll need to allocate a few hours.

Looking like a gigantic picture frame, this iconic structure consists of two vertical towers connected by a glass-bottomed bridge. From its observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic 360° views of the city’s evolving skyline on one side and the historical old town on the other.

The views are ok but – in our opinion – not as good as from the other observation platforms which we mentioned earlier in this itinerary. Still, we found a visit here quite worth it, because the building itself is truly remarkable.

Good to know: Depending on how busy it is, you’ll need 1-2 hours for a visit. Be sure to book tickets online or you may not be able to enter at all (we saw a few disappointed families turned away at the entrance). Even with timed tickets, the queues are still long, especially in the afternoon. So if you want to visit without wasting too much time, I recommend booking an early morning time slot.

AYA Universe

One of the more recent attractions in Dubai, we stumbled upon AYA Universe by coincidence. And so glad we decided to visit because it became one of our favorite experiences in the city!

It’s difficult to describe this unique attraction. It’s like stepping into a dreamy world with captivating light displays and mesmerizing high-tech experiences. If anything, I could compare it to the worlds you see in Avatar movies. A colorful, fairytale-like universe that guarantees lots of positive emotions. Recommended!

AYA Universe is located inside WAFI City Mall. The interior of this shopping center is inspired by an Egyptian theme and is quite interesting to see as well.

Good to know: Count about 45 minutes for a visit here, an hour if you also want to walk around the Mall (it’s very small compared to most others in Dubai). Book your tickets online if you want to be able to visit AYA Universe at a specific time slot. There were just a few people when we arrived here in the morning but quickly got much busier. It’s a rather small facility and I think they cap the number of visitors that are allowed inside at the same time.

iFly Dubai is an indoor skydiving center located in Mirdif City Centre Mall. This is your chance to experience skydiving in a safe and controlled environment. Btw, they have the real thing in Dubai too – see skydiving tours here .

Before you start, you get a short training session explaining some basic techniques. The regular experience includes two 1-minute flights. It may not sound like much, but they say that when you leap from a plane when actually skydiving, the free-fall time is even shorter than a minute.

Good to know: They work with time slots and allow about 10 people per half an hour, so it’s best to book in advance . iFly Dubai says that it’s suitable for all ages. Most people in our group were children and teens, but also a few adults. Count about an hour for the whole experience.

Despite the name, City Centre Mirdif Mall is not located in the center at all. It’s actually quite a drive from most other attractions in Dubai (about 15-20 minutes from Dubai Frame or AYA Universe). This shopping center is quite big and has many nice restaurants, so you can also have lunch here.

The Green Planet

+- 2 HOURS.

The Green Planet is an indoor rainforest featuring several thousand tropical plants and a variety of birds and animals freely roaming inside. If you’ve ever been to a rainforest in Costa Rica , the plants and the animals you can see here are similar.

The Green Planet has several sloths, squirrel monkeys, and all kinds of reptiles. You can also visit a bat cave, see all kinds of colorful birds, and admire the world’s largest man-made and life-sustaining tree.

It’s particularly nice for families with children but is very enjoyable for adults as well. Recommended.

Good to know: The Green Planet is located next to the City Walk Mall in the center, not far from the Dubai Mall area. You can get tickets online . Plan about 2 hours for a visit. The Green Planet closes at 6 PM (much earlier than most other attractions), so keep this in mind when deciding which places to visit on this day and in which order.

So, this sums up our recommended Dubai itinerary. As you can see, there’s A LOT to experience in Dubai and a week will fly by before you know it.

The nice thing about planning a trip to Dubai is that it has such a wide variety of activities and attractions allowing you to personalize your trip and find something that everyone in your group/family will enjoy.

I hope that our suggested itinerary gives you some inspiration on what to see and do in Dubai and helps you plan a perfect holiday.

READ ALSO: What to Wear in Dubai

More info & travel inspiration for Dubai:

• Dubai Travel Tips
• How Expensive is Dubai
• Dubai Public Transport
• Dubai in February
• Best Things to Do in Dubai
• Best Tours in Dubai
• Abu Dhabi Tour from Dubai
• Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai
• Interesting Facts About Dubai

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