Dubai Old Souks, Abra Boat & Tastings Walking Tour

Summary

Wander gold souks ride an abra sip saffron tea in old Dubai

You’ll wander Old Dubai’s winding alleys with a local guide, taste saffron tea and chocolate dates in historic homes, cross Dubai Creek by traditional Abra boat, and soak up the scents of spice and gold souks. Expect laughter, honest tips for avoiding tourist traps, and a glimpse into daily life that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I almost bailed when I saw the tangle of alleys near Al Fahidi — it looked like the kind of place you could get lost for hours. But our guide (I think his name was Saeed?) just grinned and said, “Don’t worry, you’ll come out with stories.” He was right. The first thing that hit me was the smell: cardamom, then something sharper — maybe cumin? — drifting from the spice souk as we ducked under a low archway. There were locals chatting on plastic stools, old men playing backgammon in the shade. It felt… real. Not polished or staged for Instagram.

We wandered through Al Seef and the historical houses in Al Fahidi, where Saeed pointed out these wind towers — apparently ancient air conditioning. I tried to picture families living here before all the skyscrapers. At one point he handed us tiny cups of saffron tea (not my usual thing but honestly, it grew on me), and there was this plate of chocolate-dipped dates that disappeared embarrassingly fast. Someone asked about haggling in the gold souk and Saeed just laughed: “Don’t pay first price unless you want to make someone’s day.” I liked how he didn’t sugarcoat anything — even gave us tips to dodge tourist traps.

The best bit? Crossing Dubai Creek on an old wooden Abra boat. The water smelled faintly salty and there was this breeze that cut through the heat for a minute or two. Kids waved from another boat; one woman handed her toddler a piece of flatbread and he immediately dropped it overboard (she just shrugged). After that we hit the spice market — so many colors it almost hurt my eyes — and I tried saying “za’atar” in Arabic. Li laughed at my accent but at least I tried.

I still think about how different Old Dubai feels compared to the city’s shiny new parts. It’s messy, loud, warm in every sense — not what I expected at all. If you want something real (and don’t mind getting a little lost), this is probably your tour.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Old Dubai and souks

• Visit Al Seef historic neighborhood
• Walk through Bastakiya area
• Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
• Discover old traditional houses
• See Dubai Creek area
• Experience spices history and tasting
• Cross river on traditional Abra boat
• Visit Old souk market
• Explore Dubai Spice Souk
• Shop at Dubai Gold Souk

Top questions

How long does the Old Dubai walking tour take?

The tour covers several neighborhoods and markets; expect to spend around half a day exploring with your guide.

Is an Abra boat ride included in this tour?

Yes, crossing Dubai Creek on a traditional wooden Abra boat is part of the experience.

Are food tastings part of the Old Dubai souks tour?

Yes, you’ll try local sweets like chocolate dates plus traditional iced tea and Arabic coffee with saffron tea during stops.

Will we visit both Gold Souk & Spice Souk?

Yes, both famous markets are included on this walking tour along with other historic sites.

Is pickup included or do we meet at the starting point?

The tour includes access to all sites but does not specify hotel pickup; public transport options are nearby.

Are children or strollers allowed on this Old Dubai tour?

Infants and small children can join; strollers/prams are welcome throughout the route.

Can I bring my service animal on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during all parts of this experience.

Is this walking tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The route is designed to be accessible for most fitness levels; expect some uneven surfaces but no major climbs.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to heritage areas and old houses in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, tastings of traditional iced tea plus Arabic coffee with saffron tea, chocolate dates and local sweets along the way, access to Baba's Cave and spice experiences inside bustling markets—and an authentic Abra boat ride across Dubai Creek before finishing among Deira’s famous gold stalls.