Walking tours offer the best way to experience Dubai’s fascinating contrasts between old and new. Good starting points are the Bastakiya Heritage Area‘s wind towers and the traditional Al Fahidi district, where local guides share authentic stories about Emirati life. The bustling gold and spice souks deserve special attention – they’re still working markets where locals shop daily.
The Old Dubai food and culture tours combine market visits with tastings of Arabic coffee, dates, and local specialties – you’ll learn how these foods connect to Bedouin traditions. The downtown modern Dubai tours are equally worthwhile, offering up-close views of architectural marvels like the Burj Khalifa.
These are our favorite Dubai walking tours, tried and tested for both historical accuracy and entertainment value.
Good To Know
- Explore the historic Bastakiya Heritage Area, souks, and Dubai Creek via a comprehensive walking tour that showcases the city’s rich culture and history.
- Immerse in the sights, scents, and flavors of Old Dubai through a half-day walking tour that includes visits to the vibrant spice and textile souks.
- Discover the iconic landmarks of Old Dubai, such as the Al Fahidi District and Dubai Museum, on a highly-rated historic walking tour with an abra boat ride.
- Enjoy a personalized private walking tour that takes you through the charming Al Fahidi neighborhood, bustling souks, and includes a ride on the traditional abra boat.
- Experience a walking tour that combines exploring Dubai’s historic sites, shopping in the renowned souks, and enjoying local cuisine and coffee.
Bastakiya Heritage Area, Souks Walking Tour in Dubai
Set out on a captivating journey through Dubai’s historic heart on the Bastakiya Heritage Area and Souks Walking Tour. Explore the wind-tower houses and courtyards of the charming Al Bastakiya district. Marvel at the glittering displays in the Gold Souk and savor the aromas of the Spice Souk.
Ride an abra water taxi across Dubai Creek, then visit the impressive Souk Madinat and Dubai Marina. Capture stunning photos of the iconic Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. With a professional guide, you’ll discover Dubai’s rich history and vibrant culture over a 7-hour tour. Hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and a maximum group size of 50 ensure a comfortable and informative experience.
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Half-Day Souks, Food & Culture Walking Tour
Enjoy the vibrant sights, scents, and flavors of Old Dubai on this half-day Souks, Food & Culture Walking Tour. You’ll explore the city’s rich history and culture, strolling through the bustling spice and textile souks, sampling local delicacies, and riding an abra boat across the creek.
With a professional guide, you’ll learn about Dubai’s transformation from a small fishing village to a global city. Along the way, you’ll enjoy four snack stops and a sit-down meal, plus bottled water and an audio receiver for a seamless experience.
With a minimum age of 8 and moderate walking, this tour provides an engaging and immersive way to discover the heart of Old Dubai.
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Historic Old Dubai & Souk Walking Tour
Explore the historic heart of Dubai on this comprehensive 3-hour walking tour of Old Dubai and its captivating souks. You’ll discover the Al Fahidi District, Ruler’s Court, and Dubai Museum, before taking an abra (water taxi) ride on the Dubai Creek.
Browse the vibrant gold, spice, and textile souks, and enjoy coffee or tea along the way. With a licensed guide, a minimum group size of 3, and a 4.9/5 rating from 152 reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and the tour is stroller accessible and near public transportation. Face masks are required, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
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Private Old Dubai Walking Tour: Forts, Souks, and Boats
Discover Dubai’s vibrant past on this private walking tour that takes you through the captivating Old Dubai neighborhoods. Explore the historic Al Fahidi district, admire the iconic wind towers, and cross the creek by traditional abra boat.
Wander through the bustling souks, where you’ll find hidden gems and learn captivating stories from your knowledgeable local guide. With a 5.0 rating and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is perfect for first-time visitors keen to discover the authentic side of Dubai. Enjoy personalized interactions, complimentary coffee or tea, and an immersive experience that showcases the Middle East’s rich cultural heritage.
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Historical Dubai Walking Tour With Local
On this historical walking tour of Dubai, you’ll journey through the city’s past with the guidance of a local expert. Explore the charm of old Dubai and uncover hidden gems as you experience the traditional lifestyle of locals in Al Fahidi Neighborhood.
Shop for textiles, gold, and spices at the lively Textile, Gold and Spice Souks. Take a relaxing abra boat ride across the creek canal to complete your immersion in Dubai’s heritage. Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy coffee/tea and bottled water, with a licensed guide to provide insights into the city’s rich history.
This walking tour offers an authentic glimpse into Dubai’s past, making it a must-do activity for any visitor.
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Royal Vision Walking Around Old Dubai Tour With Abra, English Guide
This Royal Vision Walking Around Old Dubai Tour with Abra provides an immersive experience, allowing you to uncover the rich heritage and captivating charm of old Dubai. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, the 5-hour tour takes you on a journey through the historic district, including a ride on the traditional Abra boat. You’ll enjoy water, lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off, all included in the package.
The tour is highly recommended, with a 100% approval rating from previous travelers, and comes with a Badge of Excellence. As a private tour, you’ll explore the area with only your group, ensuring a personalized experience. Book with confidence, as you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Old Dubai Walking Tour: Abra Ride, Creek, Spice & Gold Souks.
Explore the vibrant marketplaces of old Dubai on this captivating walking tour. You’ll navigate the bustling Dubai Spice Souk and Dubai Gold Souk, where your guide will help you negotiate with the vendors.
Visit the textile wholesale market and take an abra ride across the Dubai Creek. Your guide will provide insider tips, ensuring you make the most of your shopping experience while taking the stress out of exploring. With bottled water provided, this tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it ideal for all. Enjoy the convenience of a meeting point near the metro and assistance reaching your end destination.
Read our full review: Old Dubai Walking Tour: Abra Ride, Creek, Spice & Gold Souks. Review
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Walking Tour Old Dubai With Historical Places & Gold Market
Enjoy the captivating essence of old Dubai as you embark on a walking tour that unveils the city’s historical tapestry and enchanting gold market.
Explore the vibrant Spice and Gold Souks, where the air is rich with the aromas of exotic spices and the glimmer of gold beckons. Gain insights into Dubai’s past as you stroll through the atmospheric Fahidi Historical Neighborhood.
Savor complimentary tea, coffee, and chocolates, and quench your thirst with bottled water. Conveniently meeting at the Sharaf DG Metro Station, this private tour allows you to explore the heart of old Dubai at your own pace.
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Guided Walking Tour Dubai Old Town, Creek, Abra, Souks
Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of old Dubai, where a guided walking tour awaits you. Rated 4.9 stars by travelers, this tour offers an immersive experience, exploring the historic Old Town, the Creek, the Abra, and vibrant souks.
Led by Mohamed Elleithy, you’ll discover Dubai’s rich heritage, sipping coffee or tea and enjoying bottled water along the way. With all fees and taxes included, the tour is stroller-accessible, though not wheelchair-friendly.
Starting at 9:30 am from the Al Seef Heritage Hotel, the tour ends at the Green Star Foodstuff Trading L.L.C. With a maximum group size of 15, this intimate experience promises a personalized, memorable exploration of Dubai’s captivating old quarter.
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Private Historic Old Dubai and Souks Walking Tour Featuring Hidden Gems
For a more intimate look at historic Old Dubai and its vibrant souks, consider the Private Historic Old Dubai and Souks Walking Tour Featuring Hidden Gems. Led by a professional guide, you’ll discover the old city and explore traditional markets. The tour includes a traditional boat ride and coffee/tea tastings.
While food and drinks aren’t included, you’ll get to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of old Dubai. With 27 reviews and a 100% recommendation, this private tour is an excellent way to uncover the city’s hidden gems. Not wheelchair accessible, but suitable for children over 6. Operates in all weather conditions and near public transportation.
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Old Dubai Walking Tour Al Fahidi Abra and Souqs
Dive into the vibrant heart of old Dubai on this captivating walking tour that takes you through the Al Fahidi historic district, traditional souks, and an abra boat ride across the Dubai Creek. You’ll start at the Al Seef Heritage Hotel, just a 15-minute walk from the Sharaf DG metro station.
The 4.8-hour tour is limited to 20 travelers and not recommended for those with walking difficulties. Along the way, you’ll enjoy coffee/tea at Nadwa House, an Arabic sambosa snack, and bottled water.
The tour culminates at the iconic Dubai Gold Souk, where you can easily access the Al Ras metro station or take a taxi or ferry back to your destination.
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Dubais Favourite Food & Historic Walking Tour
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and rich history of Dubai on this captivating walking tour. Explore the streets of Old Dubai and discover the city’s humble origins as a small fishing and trading village.
Savor a full meal’s worth of local delicacies, including traditional Arabic crepes, camel milk gelato, and a mouthwatering camel burger. Take an abra ride across Dubai Creek to see a different side of the city that most visitors miss. With a small group size, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and a chance to connect with the local culture.
This tour is accessible by public transportation and suitable for most travelers, making it a must-do experience for those seeking an authentic taste of Dubai.
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Ancient Cultures Of Dubai – Private Walking Tour
Eager to uncover the ancient cultures that shaped modern-day Dubai? Look no further than the “Ancient Cultures of Dubai – Private Walking Tour.” This small-group excursion explores the city’s older districts, where you’ll marvel at 19th-century wind towers, browse the vibrant Spice and Gold Souks, and visit the Dubai Museum to explore the emirate’s history.
Ride an “abra” water taxi across Dubai Creek, and stop at the Coffee Museum for a glimpse into the region’s traditional brew. With a maximum group size of 10, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience led by a licensed guide. Recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour offers a chance to discover Dubai’s authentic, historical side beyond its modern architectural wonders.
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Dubai Walking Tour “Fahidi Area, Dubai Museum, Souks”
Regularly regarded as one of Dubai’s most captivating walking tours, the “Dubai Walking Tour – Fahidi Area, Dubai Museum, Souks” promises an immersive exploration of the city’s rich heritage and vibrant markets. Rated 5.0 out of 12 reviews, this 9-hour tour takes you through the Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, the Dubai Museum, the Spice Souk, and the Gold Souk, with a maximum group size of 8 travelers. Included are a bottle of water and gratuities, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
With 100% of travelers recommending this tour, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic glimpse into Dubai’s past and present. The tour is conveniently accessible by public transportation and suitable for most travelers.
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Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Downtown Plaza and Dubai Opera Walking Tour
Embarking on a 2-hour walking tour of downtown Dubai, you’ll explore the city’s iconic landmarks and gain an insightful overview of this vibrant metropolis. You’ll visit notable sights like the towering Burj Khalifa, the expansive Dubai Mall, and the awe-inspiring Dubai Opera House, capturing memorable photos along the way.
The tour’s highlight is the impressive fountain show at Dubai Mall, where you’ll witness a captivating display of water, light, and music. With a personalized small-group experience and an afternoon departure, this tour allows you to make the most of your day in Dubai. Highly recommended by travelers, this walking tour is an excellent way to discover the heart of the city.
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Dubai Walking Tour
Enjoy the captivating heart of Dubai on this comprehensive walking tour. Enjoy private transportation and alcoholic beverages as you explore the city’s iconic landmarks.
The tour starts at 9:00 am with pickup from the Al Fahidi Metro Station, and it’s accessible for most travelers, including those with strollers. You’ll embark on a private activity lasting an unspecified duration, with the assurance of a lowest price guarantee and a 5.0-star rating from 7 reviews.
Should your plans change, you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. Discover the vibrant sights and sounds of Dubai on this walkable adventure.
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Dubai Private Walking Tour Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Dubai’s captivating heart on this private walking tour, where you’ll explore the city’s iconic landmarks and uncover its hidden gems. Guided by a professional, licensed English-speaking expert, you’ll embark on a journey through the historic Fahidi district, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and cultural heritage.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy a scenic water taxi ride and refreshing bottled water. With the option to bring up to two children under 8 for free, this tour caters to families, ensuring a memorable experience for all. Conveniently located near public transportation, this 3-hour walking tour is perfect for most travelers seeking an immersive, personalized exploration of Dubai’s enchanting sights.
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Walking Tour With Local Friend and Discover Old Dubai
On this walking tour, you’ll step into the heart of Old Dubai and explore the city’s rich cultural heritage with a knowledgeable local guide. You’ll start at the Sharaf DG Metro Station and end near the iconic Dubai Gold Souk, taking in the sights and sounds along the way.
The tour includes a relaxing boat ride across the creek, as well as complimentary coffee, tea, and bottled water. Wheelchair and stroller users are welcome, and the tour is accessible by public transportation.
With a 4.9 rating from 14 reviews and a 93% recommendation rate, this is an excellent way to discover the hidden gems of Old Dubai.
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Old Dubai Heritage Walking Tour With Guide – Private Tour
Embark on an enriching exploration of Old Dubai’s captivating heritage on this private walking tour. Led by a professional guide, you’ll explore the city’s vibrant past, visiting the iconic Gold Souq, Spice Souq, and Textile Souq.
Enjoy the sights, sounds, and aromas of these traditional marketplaces, and cross the Dubai Creek by traditional Abra boat. Along the way, you’ll have ample opportunities to shop for souvenirs, spices, dry fruits, and more.
With pick-up and drop-off included, and a 5-star rating from previous guests, this tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way to discover the timeless charm of Old Dubai.
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Aladdin Walking Tour in Dubai City
Step into the enchanting world of “Aladdin” as you explore Dubai’s vibrant Deira district on this captivating walking tour. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of this historic neighborhood, savoring local snacks and street food, sipping traditional Arabic coffee, and enjoying a private boat ride on a traditional Abra.
Discover the Al Seef Heritage Site, Dubai Spice Souk, Dubai Museum, and Al Fahidi Fort, all while learning about the city’s rich cultural heritage from your knowledgeable local guide. With a maximum of 15 travelers, this 4-hour tour promises an intimate and authentic experience in the heart of Dubai. Secure your spot and embark on an unforgettable journey through the city’s captivating past.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Times to Visit the Bastakiya Heritage Area?
The best times to visit the Bastakiya Heritage Area are early morning or late afternoon. You’ll avoid the midday heat and have a more peaceful experience exploring the historic wind tower houses and art galleries. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
Can I Take Photos Inside the Souks During the Walking Tours?
Yes, you can generally take photos inside the souks during walking tours. However, be mindful of any signs or directions that prohibit photography, and always ask for permission before photographing individuals or stalls. Respect the local customs and enjoy capturing the vibrant atmosphere.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Food Tasting in the Tours?
Regarding the food tasting during the tours, you should check with the tour operator about any dietary restrictions or accommodations they can provide. Many tours aim to offer a variety of local cuisine that caters to different dietary needs.
Will the Tours Accommodate Visitors With Limited Mobility?
Most walking tours can accommodate visitors with limited mobility. Tour operators typically offer alternatives, such as transportation for longer walking segments or modified routes. It’s best to inquire about accessibility options when booking your tour.
How Do I Book a Private Walking Tour in Dubai?
To book a private walking tour in Dubai, you can contact local tour operators or use online booking platforms. Many providers offer personalized tours that can accommodate your needs and preferences, so you can explore the city at your own pace.
The Sum Up
Dubai offers an array of walking tours showcasing its rich cultural heritage and vibrant souks. Whether you prefer a guided experience or self-guided exploration, you’ll find a tour that caters to your interests, from the historic Bastakiya district to the bustling spice and gold souks. Enjoy Dubai’s past and present, and discover the city’s captivating blend of tradition and modernity.