Old Dubai city and souks form the emirate’s cultural and historical centre. With its heritage buildings, street food, and charming neighbourhoods, seeing old parts of the city provides a glimpse into times gone by.
There is so much to see in Dubai, and it’s well known for its glitz, glam, and skyscrapers. However, there is another side to Dubai. Old Dubai oozes old-school charm and character.
Here are four ways to explore the cultural side of old Dubai.
Things to Do in Dubai’s Old Town
1. Explore the Souks of Deira
The souks of Dubai have the timeless charm of traditional Arabian open-air markets, their narrow alleys alive with colour, scent, and sound. Stalls overflow with silks, aromatic spices, dried fruits, and exotic perfumes, making it almost impossible to leave without a purchase.
Don’t miss the nearby Gold Souk, an entire market devoted to glittering jewellery and intricate ornaments. The souks are easily accessible by metro, or for a traditional experience, take an abra (wooden water taxi) across Dubai Creek from Deira.
2. Take a Ride on an Abra
The abra is Dubai’s traditional wooden water taxi that ferries passengers across Dubai Creek, offering a quick, scenic crossing between Deira and Bur Dubai. Open‑air and simple, most abra’s carry about 10–20 people and give a genuine heritage feel.
Public abra’s are very affordable, around AED 1 one‑way as of recent years. Private or tourist abra tours cost more, typically AED 25–150 depending on duration and extras.
3. Try out the Local Food
Explore Old Dubai through its cafés and flavours to soak up local culture. Start with coffee and light bites at Mazmi Coffee & More in a charming heritage house by the creek.
Another option is the Arabian Tea House on Al Fahidi Street for an Emirati breakfast tray and traditional dishes. Or, Blue Barjeel for strong coffee and hearty meat plates.
4. Visit Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) is a non-profit organisation generating awareness about Emirati culture and its traditions.
Located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, SMCCU offers cultural experiences, including traditional Emirati meals, providing guided heritage tours, and taking guests to explore mosques. Breakfast at SMCCU is a fantastic option.
If you want to explore old Dubai, SMCCU is something that should be on the top of your list.
Why Old Dubai Should Be On Your List
Dubai’s Old Town is a hidden gem of the emirate that takes visitors back in time to explore its stories, heritage infrastructure, and community spirit.
Whether you’re a visitor or a resident seeking experiential travel, new flavours and local culture, Old Dubai is the perfect weekend outing or holiday detour.
Follow The Dubai Atlas for more news, events, and all the hottest updates in the capital and beyond.
