Before the skyscrapers, Dubai was a trading town on the Creek. Old Dubai is where you still feel that history: wind-tower houses in Al Fahidi, wooden abra boats crossing the water, and the busy Textile, Spice and Gold Souks. It is one of the best half-day walks in the city — and one of the most different from Downtown and the Marina.
Old Dubai at a glance
“Old Dubai” usually means the two banks of Dubai Creek: Bur Dubai on the west side, with Al Fahidi and the Textile Souk, and Deira on the east side, with the Spice and Gold Souks. You cross between them the traditional way, on an abra.
What to see in Old Dubai
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Also known as Al Bastakiya, this is a maze of quiet sand-colored lanes and restored houses topped by wind towers (barjeel), the traditional way of cooling homes before air conditioning. Many houses now hold small museums, art galleries and cafés.
Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
Inside Al Fahidi, this center runs cultural meals, tours and talks where you can ask questions about Emirati life and traditions. Book ahead — it is one of the most rewarding experiences in the city.
Al Fahidi Fort
One of the oldest buildings in Dubai, the fort has long been home to the Dubai Museum. Check whether it is open when you visit, as it has been closed for renovation in recent years.
Dubai Creek and the abra ride
The short crossing on a wooden abra is a highlight in itself: low to the water, with views of dhows, old trading houses and the city around you. Abra stations sit on both banks near the souks.
The Textile Souk (Bur Dubai)
Covered lanes of fabric shops, tailors and souvenir stalls lead from Al Fahidi toward the abra station. A good place for scarves, pashminas and made-to-measure clothes.
The Spice Souk and the Gold Souk (Deira)
Across the Creek, the Spice Souk is full of saffron, frankincense, dried lemons and dates. A few minutes away, the Gold Souk has window after window of jewelry — worth seeing even if you are not buying.
Al Shindagha Historic District
Near the mouth of the Creek, Al Shindagha has restored historic houses and museums about Dubai’s past, its families and the Creek’s role in trade. A good add-on if you want more history.
A walking route through Old Dubai
- Start in Al Fahidi: wander the lanes and visit a museum or gallery.
- Culture: join a meal or talk at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (book ahead).
- Walk through the Textile Souk to the Bur Dubai abra station.
- Cross Dubai Creek by abra to Deira.
- Explore the Spice Souk, then the Gold Souk.
- Finish with dinner by the Creek, or head to Al Shindagha for sunset.
Planning more of your trip? Read our full Dubai travel guide, our list of free things to do in Dubai, our Dubai Marina and JBR guide for the modern waterfront, and our Abu Dhabi day trip guide.
How to get to Old Dubai
- By Metro: stations on the Green Line serve both Bur Dubai and Deira, a short walk from Al Fahidi and the souks.
- By taxi: ask for Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood or the Gold Souk.
- By water: abras and other boats link the two banks of the Creek.
Opening days, hours, fares and booking rules for museums, the cultural center and boats can change. Check the official sources before you go. We do not list prices or schedules in this guide.
Practical tips
- Go in the morning or late afternoon; midday is hot for walking, especially from May to September.
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), especially near mosques and in the souks.
- Bargaining is normal in the souks — stay friendly and patient.
- Carry some cash for the abra and small shops.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the lanes are best explored on foot.
- Ask before photographing people.
Explore Old Dubai with a local team
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Old Dubai FAQ
What is Old Dubai?
Old Dubai is the historic area on both banks of Dubai Creek: Bur Dubai, with Al Fahidi and the Textile Souk, and Deira, with the Spice and Gold Souks.
How long do I need for Old Dubai?
Half a day is enough for Al Fahidi, an abra ride and the souks. Allow a full day if you add museums, a cultural meal and Al Shindagha.
How do I cross Dubai Creek?
Take a traditional abra boat from the stations near the souks on either bank. The crossing is short and is part of the experience.
What should I wear in Old Dubai?
Light, modest clothes that cover shoulders and knees, and comfortable shoes for walking.
