Private Old Dubai Walking Tour : Bastakiya, Souks, Street Food.
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the heart of Old Dubai on this private cultural walking tour that blends iconic heritage landmarks with authentic hidden gems. During this immersive 3-hour walking experience, stroll through lively traditional souks, sample delicious Dubai street food, and cross Dubai Creek aboard a classic wooden Abra.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this heritage tour offers rich insight into Dubai’s history, culture, and daily life beyond the modern skyline. With snacks included and a flexible pace, it’s an ideal experience for travelers seeking a deeper, more authentic side of Dubai.
Optional hotel pickup and drop-off are available for added convenience.
Tour Highlights
- Private Old Dubai walking tour with heritage sites and hidden gems
- Guided visit to traditional Dubai souks
- Street food tastings with local snacks included
- Scenic Abra ride across Dubai Creek
- Insightful commentary from a professional local guide
- Optional hotel pickup and drop-off
Available options
Tour with Pickup and Drop
Private and Personalized <br/>Duration: 3 hours<br/>Local street food / snacks <br/>Comfortable MPV for transfers: Pickup and drop-off included, the guide/driver will meet you at the hotel concierge or your preferred with Lead Pax Name. <br/>Pickup included
Tour Without Pickup and Drop
Private and personalized <br/>Duration: 3 hours<br/>Local street food / snacks<br/>NO TRANSFERS: This option does not include hotel or airport pickup and drop-off. Guests are required to meet at the mentioned meeting point
What's included
Admission fee
Bottled water
Snacks
Private Local Guide
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your tour with a walk in Al Seef, taking in the views of Dubai Creek and soaking up the atmosphere of the traditional pearling village.
2
Stop 2
Stroll through Bastakiya to explore houses built from clay and coral, and experience traditional life in Dubai before 1971. Discover narrow lanes, traditional architecture, beautiful mashrabiyas, and enjoy traditional Arabic coffee.
3
Stop 3
Dubai Creek, often called the lifeblood of Dubai, offers stunning views of the city on both sides—Deira and Bur Dubai. Enjoy panoramic creek views while experiencing one of the city’s oldest forms of traditional public transport, the Abra, as you cross the water like locals once did.
4
Explore Dubai’s old souks and immerse yourself in a vibrant world of spices, herbs, and textiles. Wander through narrow market lanes filled with rich aromas, colorful fabrics, and the authentic trading culture of Old Dubai.
5
Stop 5
Walk through the world’s largest gold market, the Gold Souk, and explore an extraordinary collection of traditional and modern jewelry. Be amazed by the world’s heaviest gold ring and the dazzling displays that define Dubai’s legendary gold trade.
What's not included
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Guide will meet all guest at the entrance of Arabian Tea House, Holding a Placard with lead pax's name. Also guest will be contacted by Guide 24 hours prior to tour on mentioned Contact details in booking.
About Dubai
Dubai is a city of superlatives, known for its futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant culture. It offers a unique blend of traditional Arabic heritage and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Burj Khalifa
The tallest building in the world, offering breathtaking views from its observation decks.
Architecture
1-2 hours
AED 149-500 (USD 40-140)
Dubai Mall
One of the largest shopping malls in the world, featuring a vast array of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.
Shopping
Half day to full day
Free entry, activities vary in cost
Palm Jumeirah
A man-made island shaped like a palm tree, featuring luxury resorts, residential areas, and the iconic Atlantis The Palm resort.
Architecture
Half day to full day
Varies by activity
Old Dubai (Al Fahidi)
The historic district of Dubai, showcasing traditional Emirati architecture, museums, and cultural experiences.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore, museum entry AED 3 (USD 0.80)
Dubai Creek
A historic waterway that divides Dubai into two main sections, offering traditional abra rides and access to souks.
Cultural
2-3 hours
AED 1 (USD 0.30) for abra ride
Dubai Marina
A modern waterfront district featuring luxury yachts, high-rise buildings, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
Waterfront
Half day to full day
Free to explore, activities vary in cost
Must-Try Local Dishes
Al Harees
A traditional Emirati dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency.
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians.
Machboos
A spiced rice dish cooked with meat, typically chicken or lamb, and flavored with saffron and cardamom.
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians.
Luqaimat
Sweet dumplings made from a batter of flour, yeast, and cardamom, deep-fried and drizzled with date syrup.
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains gluten.
Kahwa
A traditional Arabic coffee flavored with cardamom and served with dates.
Drink
Contains caffeine, can be prepared with or without sugar.
Popular Activities
Dune bashing
Skydiving
Hot air ballooning
Skiing at Ski Dubai
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yacht cruises
Shopping
Best Time to Visit
November to March
This is the best time to visit Dubai, with pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city hosts numerous events and festivals during this period.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED)
Time Zone
GMT+4
Electricity
220-240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Dubai is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid sharing personal information with strangers
Getting there
By air
- Dubai International Airport • 5 km from city center
- Al Maktoum International Airport • 50 km from city center
By bus
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Gold Souk Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned. Uses a contactless payment system (Nol Card).
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Dubai
Jumeirah
Deira
Dubai Marina
Day trips
Abu Dhabi
140 km from Dubai • Full day
The capital of the UAE, offering a mix of modern architecture and traditional heritage sites.
Hatta
115 km from Dubai • Half day to full day
A picturesque mountain area with a dam, heritage village, and outdoor activities.
Musandam Peninsula
200 km from Dubai • Overnight
A stunning coastal area known as the 'Norway of Arabia' for its fjords and clear waters.
Festivals
Dubai Shopping Festival • January-February
Dubai World Cup • March
Dubai Food Festival • February-March
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
- Use the Nol Card for easy and discounted access to public transport.
- Bargain when shopping in souks, but do so politely and respectfully.
- Try traditional Emirati dishes at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
- Book tickets for popular attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, in advance to avoid long queues.
$54
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
