A Guide to Old Dubai: What to Eat, See and Do!
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Most visitors to Dubai come to town to go to the top of the world’s tallest building, get lost in the world’s second-largest mall, and take a dip in the world’s highest infinity pool. But if you’re looking for something more cultural, you’re going to want to spend some time in Old Dubai.
Since I moved to Dubai in 2022, I’ve heard so many people say that Dubai has no culture and no history. But that’s entirely untrue. Old Dubai is the historical and cultural heart of Dubai. This is where you’ll find heritage buildings, mazelike souks, incredible street food, and picture-perfect Dubai Creek views. If you ask me, Old Dubai should be at the top of every first-timers Dubai bucket list.
If you’re looking for things to do in Old Dubai that are chock-full of charm, I’ve got you covered! In addition to things to see and do, I’ve also included a list of the best places to eat and the best hotels to stay at, in case you decide to base yourself in this part of Dubai.
What Is Old Dubai?
Old Dubai was first settled by descendants of the Bani Yas tribe in 1833, and it’s here that you’ll find the oldest neighborhoods in the city. The part of town that is now considered Old Dubai is made up of Bur Dubai and Deira, which are separated by the lovely Dubai Creek. Most visitors to Old Dubai spend time exploring the famous Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira and the heritage-style buildings in Al Seef and Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, which are located across the Dubai Creek in Bur Dubai.
Given the area’s proximity to both the Dubai Creek and the Persian Gulf, the area has a rich history as a fishing village and pearl diving site. While many of the centuries-old buildings are no longer standing, Old Dubai is still home to incredible examples of heritage buildings, like the Al Fahidi Fort which was built in 1787.
In Al Seef and Al Fahidi, you’ll also find picturesque heritage-inspired buildings that incorporate architectural features like wind towers, limestone and coral materials, and narrow cobblestone walkways that serve as examples of what Dubai used to look like.
Interesting Things to Do in Old Dubai
Take a Frying Pan Adventures Food Tour
Featured in Season 7 of “Somebody Feed Phil,” Frying Pan Adventures has long been an institution in Dubai’s food tour scene. This company is run by two sisters who grew up in Dubai in the ’80s and are all about promoting and preserving local food culture.
They offer a handful of different tours, but I recommend their Dubai Souks and Creekside Food Walk because it takes you through the most authentic parts of Old Dubai and allows you to meet local food vendors. It’s a really unique way to get a taste of the city’s incredible multicultural food scene while also learning about the unique history, culture, and way of life in Old Dubai.
See Old and New Dubai from the Dubai Frame
To see just how much this city has changed over the years, going to the top of the Dubai Frame is one of the most interesting things to do in Old Dubai. Journey to the top of this 150-meter-tall frame, and you’ll be able to view the futuristic skyline of “New” Dubai juxtaposed with the modest buildings of Old Dubai.
The view is pretty incredible from up there. Plus, the tickets are affordable at just $15 (AED 55).
Explore Al Seef
Al Seef is part of Old Dubai’s heritage district and it’s easily one of the most charming areas of Dubai. Take some time to walk around the 1.8-kilometer area and you’ll quickly be swooning for the old-world-style buildings, winding sikkas (alleyways), souk-inspired shops, and creekside restaurants.
That’s right, Al Seef is located right on Dubai Creek, making the setting even more picture-perfect. I highly recommend exploring the area during sunset because the sound of the call to prayer emanating from all of the neighborhood mosques as the sun sets in Old Dubai is simply magical!
Snap a Selfie at the Adorable Starbucks
While you’re in Al Seef, you might as well seek out the local Starbucks (click here for the location). I realize that this may sound like a very random item to include on a “things to do in Old Dubai” list but trust me, this is one of the most picturesque Starbucks in the world. You’ll see plenty of people snapping selfies in front of this heritage-inspired building!
Go Back in Time in Al Fahidi
You’ll find the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood (Al Bastakiya) right next to Al Seef. This part of town is Dubai’s historical heart and it’s where you’ll find many of the top Old Dubai attractions, including the Dubai Museum at Al Fahidi Fort, the Coffee Museum, the Arabian Tea House, and the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (more on each of these below).
It’s well worth taking some time to explore by foot. You never know what cultural and historical gems you’ll find!
Get a History Lesson at Al Fahidi Fort
Visiting the Al Fahidi Fort is one of the most interesting things to do in Old Dubai. This building was built in 1787 as the ruler’s fortified residence (it also served as an armory and prison). Al Fahidi Fort now stands proud as the oldest building in Dubai.
Al Fahidi Fort is home to the Dubai Museum, which is a must-visit if you want to learn about the history of Dubai and glimpse historic artifacts. Do note that the Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Museum are currently closed for renovations. But once the renovations are complete, it should be back and better than ever! So be sure to double-check before you visit.
Get Cultured at SMCCU
When it comes to cultural experiences, visiting the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) is a must.
It’s well worth checking out the website to see what’s going on during your visit. From cultural meals to tours of Old Dubai to educational visits to a local mosque, they offer cultural experiences you can’t get anywhere else. Plus, they’re open to everyone. These experiences do book up, so make sure to make your plans well in advance.
Try Arabic Coffee at the Coffee Museum
Also located in Al Fahidi, the Coffee Museum is another one of the top Old Dubai attractions. Entry is just $2.70 (AED 10) and you’ll get a free cup of coffee to sip and some dates to munch on while you peruse the museum.
This intimate museum tells the origin story of coffee, highlights the importance of coffee in the region, and gives visitors fun facts about coffee culture and history from around the globe. There are also tons of cool old coffee artifacts showcased in the museum, from grinders to kettles.
Cross Dubai Creek on an Abra
Taking an abra (a traditional wooden boat) across Dubai Creek is one of the most fun Old Dubai activities. Plus, you’ll need to get across the creek to reach Deira from Al Fahidi or Al Seef (which are both on the Bur Dubai side of Dubai Creek).
These are public boats and they depart when they fill up – but you never have to wait long, as they are a very popular mode of transportation. Plus, the ride costs just $0.27 (AED 1). So it’s kind of like getting a mini cruise along Dubai Creek for super cheap!
Visit the Souks in Deira
Now that you’ve crossed Dubai Creek into the Deira part of Old Dubai, it’s time to check out some more souks. The Gold Souk and Spice Souk are two of the top Old Dubai attractions and must-visits if you want to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Deira.
The Gold Souk has to be seen to be believed. This place is as glitzy and glamorous as it comes and it’s where to go shopping in Dubai for all things gold. And I do mean all things gold.
The Spice Souk is just a short walk away from the Gold Souk and it’s a fun place to shop for spices and other goods to bring back home with you. From saffron, cardamom, za’atar, and sumac to dried fruits and local teas, you’ll find all sorts of cool things in this part of Old Dubai.
Where to Eat in Old Dubai
Have an Emirati Meal at Arabian Tea House
If you’ve only got time for one meal in Old Dubai, go to the Arabian Tea House. Located a short walk from Al Fahidi Fort, this place serves up authentic Emirati cuisine in a gorgeous heritage-inspired courtyard.
If you make it in time for breakfast, I highly recommend ordering the Special Emirati Breakfast Tray, which features local favorites like balaleet (vermicelli cooked with cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron topped with an omelet), dango (chickpeas), bajella (fava beans), and other small dishes.
Come later in the day and you can choose from a lengthy menu of Emirati eats from the Emirati Kebab Laham (Lamb Barbeque) to Machboos Deyay (Chicken with Rice) to appetizers like mutabal, hummus, falafel, and labneh.
Shop and Eat at Meena Bazaar
For a completely different cultural experience, make your way to Meena Bazaar. This is one of the city’s many bustling traditional markets and it’s where tourists and locals alike shop to get excellent deals on everything from clothes to handicrafts to jewelry and beyond.
This place also has some of the best Indian street food in Dubai. So I recommend coming hungry because you’ll want to try everything at Meena Bazaar! Think ultra-affordable pani puri, dosas, vada pav, samosas, uttapam (pictured above), and so much more.
Try Traditional Pakistani at Ravi
Founded in 1978, Ravi is an institution in Dubai. This place is so famous in Dubai that Anthony Bourdain once dined here during his 2010 visit. Now it’s a must try when in Old Dubai. Located in the Satwa neighborhood, this place has long been a local favorite for its no-frills Pakistani fare.
The menu here has everything from meaty kebabs to fragrant biryanis to vegetable curries. Trust me, you’ll want to come hungry!
Go Vegetarian at XVA Café
Located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, XVA Café is one of the most well-known restaurants in Old Dubai, especially if you’re looking for old-world vibes. Part of the appeal is soaking up the ambiance in one of the three quaint courtyards. The vegetarian menu here boasts Middle Eastern and South Asian delights like the Turkish Eggs Moreish Way, Mezze Platter, and XVA Thali.
Where to Stay in Old Dubai
Arabian Boutique Hotel: Arabian Boutique Hotel is the first Emirati boutique hotel in Old Dubai, giving you a unique heritage-style experience that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a bygone era. There are just 20 individually decorated rooms and suites here, all spread out across what was once the residence of a first-generation dignitary.
Infused with charm and authenticity, each room is decked out in whitewashed walls, exposed wood ceilings, handwoven rugs, and plush bathrobes. Step outside, and you’ll find a beautifully tiled pool and courtyard that’s the perfect place to while away the hours sipping Arabian coffee.
Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai: I love this hotel because it’s located smack in the middle of the souks in Al Seef heritage district. The whole property is incorporated into its heritage-style surroundings, so expect the rooms to have cool vintage decor and old-world charm. But don’t worry; this is a Curio Collection hotel, so they also come with modern amenities like large flat-screen TVs, Nespresso machines, and plush bathrobes.
XVA Art Hotel: Tucked away in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, XVA Art Hotel is easily one of the most popular boutique hotels in Old Dubai. There are only 15 bespoke rooms here so it does book up, but if you can manage to snag one, you’ll have the chance to stay in style in the oldest neighborhood in Dubai. If you can’t get a room, you should still visit to dine at the on-site XVA Café.
Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al Seef: This place is a popular pick because of its unique in-room amenities, like the Dubai skyline wall art, mid-century decor, yoga mats, and retro minifridges. There’s also a great rooftop pool, which is a nice touch during Dubai’s hot summer months!
