Walking Tour In Old Dubai With Local

Launched in late 2017, Al Seef celebrates Dubai Creek’s beginnings as a coastal pearl diving base. Hugging 1.8km of Dubai Creek’s shoreline, the 2.5 million square foot development has two sections – a heritage area featuring old architecture, and a second space featuring more contemporary structures.

Once a vibrant entryway to the Gulf’s most successful pearl diving port, the Creek’s historic presence can still be felt today here, with fisherman and merchants criss-crossing the calm waters in dhow boats as part of their daily routine. The best way to take it all in is to embark on a cultural walking tour of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, before wandering over to Al Seef and exploring its charming walkways, fully-operational marina, dining boulevard and events plaza on foot.

The construction of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood dates back to the 1890s. In its prime, the locality was capable of 60 housing units, most of which were separated by narrow, winding lanes. The town of Al Bastakiya was primarily built by the affluent Persian Merchants drawn to Dubai by the rich trade opportunities and incentives offered by the Emirati government, the district was named after the southern Iranian town of Bastak.

In the 1980s half of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood village was destroyed to make way for the development of a new office complex. The remaining houses were mostly used as warehouses or accommodation for foreign laborers. In 1989, the Dubai Municipality directed that the remaining parts of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood were to be demolished.

the Al Fahidi Fort, this is the oldest existing building in the city and a must-visit for a taste of old Dubai. Built in 1787, this fort was once the monarch's base, a fortified residence, and weapons arsenal and prison, before being renovated during the reign of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

In 1971 (the same year the United Arab Emirates 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 (markets) and date farms, while also depicting scenes from desert and marine life.

Head to the historic Bur Dubai neighborhood and discover a number of vibrant fabrics at the Textile Souk (market). You can skim through an endless selection of raw silk, cotton and embroidered materials at this bazaar. You're bound to find the exact print and color you're looking for among the hundreds of reels of cloth.

Located just across Dubai Creek from many other popular souks, visitors will encounter dozens of shops and stalls at the famous market. Vendors offer the finest fabrics and patterns from around the world, sure to make or jazz up any wardrobe. In addition to the various fabrics on offer, you’ll also find a plethora of buttons, sequins, stones, lace and other accessories to help you add a touch of Arabian flair to your entire collection.

Dubai’s Spice Souk is a colourful, aromatic and sensory experience. Discover new flavours and recipes as you explore the traditional spice market in Dubai's heritage area.

Savour the atmosphere of the past as you are introduced to the mounds of aromatic herbs and spices, all spilling from large baskets at every turn. Spices are sold both by weight and in packets. Like other souks, you can save money when you buy in bulk quantities – and vendors expect you to haggle. Lots of Arabic spices are on offer, as well as those from the subcontinent. Whether you’re a cooking expert or looking to experiment a bit with your favourite recipes, you’ll discover many new tastes at the Spice Souk – with a great selection of nuts, oils and saffron also available.

A trip to Dubai isn't complete without a visit to the famous Gold Souk, one of the oldest and most fascinating traditional markets in the emirate. Whether you’re just browsing, or genuinely on the hunt for even the smallest amount of precious gold, walk through the glittering bazaar to find designs from around the world crafted with a variety of carats.Long lines of market stalls showcase a myriad of authentic and eye-catching products – you never know when you’ll spot something special for you and your loved ones. All merchandise is carefully regulated by the Dubai government to ensure the authenticity of the quality you receive.

You can be sure your purchases will be genuine. In addition to gold, look out for diamond-encrusted ornaments, strings of pearls, platinum and silver. Retailers are more than up to offer a bargain, provided you are fair with your price.