How to Plan Your Historic Old Dubai and Souk Walking Tour Morning 10am in Dubai

Dubai is a city full of history, culture and traditions. One of the best ways to explore the city’s rich heritage is by taking the Historic Old Dubai and Souk Walking Tour. This tour takes you on a journey through the ancient Al Fahidi District, Dubai Creek, and the bustling souks where you can experience local life, taste local food and shop for unique souvenirs. In this guide, we will take you through a step-by-step process on how to plan your Old Dubai and Souk Walking Tour.

Step 1: Book your tour in advance

The first thing you need to do is book the Historic Old Dubai and Souk Walking Tour on the Viator website. The tour runs every day at 10am, and it’s advisable to book it in advance to secure your spot. The tour costs $43.56 per person and it includes an abra ride, a licensed guide, pick up and drop off, and coffee or tea.Book the tour here

Step 2: Know what to expect on the tour

The Historic Old Dubai and Souk Walking Tour starts at the Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe in the Al Fahidi District. This district is historically significant as it was once the residential area for wealthy Persian merchants. The guide will take you through the narrow alleyways, wind towers and old houses which have been restored for visitors to get a glimpse of traditional Arabian architecture.Next, you will take an abra ride across the Dubai Creek, which has been the lifeline of Dubai for generations. You will hear about the Indian community’s influence on the area.After the abra ride, the guide will take you to the Dubai Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Fort, which was built in 1787. You will learn about the history of the city, tracing it back to its humble beginnings as a fishing village.Finally, you will visit the gold, spice and textile souks, which are located in Deira. Here, you will have a chance to shop for souvenirs, try shawarma or falafel, and taste Arabic sweets.

Step 3: Dress appropriately and carry essentials

Dubai is a conservative city, so it’s important to dress modestly. Women should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees, while men should avoid sleeveless shirts and shorts. It’s also advisable to wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking for around 3 hours.Carry essentials like a water bottle, sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as Dubai can get hot and sunny throughout the year.

Step 4: Know the meeting point and time

The meeting point for the tour is the Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe, which is located in the Al Fahidi District. You need to reach the meeting point 10 minutes before the scheduled tour start time of 10am.

Step 5: Transportation to and from the tour

The tour includes pick up and drop off from your hotel in Dubai. However, if your hotel is not listed in the pickup locations, then you need to make your way to the meeting point on your own. You can use a taxi or the Dubai Metro to reach the meeting point.

Step 6: Additional tips

– Wear comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing

– Carry a small backpack to store your essentials

– Bring a camera to capture the beautiful sights

– Follow the rules and regulations of the city

– Tip your guide if you’re satisfied with the serviceIn conclusion, the Old Dubai and Souk Walking Tour is a must-do activity for anyone who wants to explore the history and culture of Dubai. By following these steps, you can plan your tour seamlessly and enjoy a memorable experience. Don’t forget to book your tour in advance and make the most of your visit to Dubai.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dubai

Dubai, located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. It is a city that offers a unique blend of modernity and traditional Arabic culture, making it a popular tourist destination. Dubai is known for its skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and diverse attractions. However, there are several questions that arise in the minds of tourists planning a trip to this city. In this post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Dubai to make your trip planning easier.

1. Is Dubai Safe for Tourists?

Dubai is considered a safe city for tourists. The UAE has a low crime rate, and the government takes various measures to ensure the safety of visitors. However, tourists should take necessary precautions such as avoiding unlit areas at night and not carrying valuable items in crowded areas.

2. What is the Best Time to Visit Dubai?

Dubai has a desert climate, which means it is hot and dry throughout the year. The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months, between November and March, when the weather is pleasant and mild. However, this is also the peak tourist season, and prices for accommodation and attractions are usually high.

3. What is the Currency used in Dubai?

The currency used in Dubai is the UAE dirham (AED). Most establishments in Dubai accept credit cards, but it is advisable to also carry cash, especially when visiting local markets.

4. What is the Dress Code in Dubai?

Dubai is a city that respects conservative Islamic values, and tourists should dress accordingly. Revealing clothing should be avoided when visiting public places such as malls, restaurants, and mosques. Swimwear is acceptable only at the beach or pool areas of hotels.

5. What Language is spoken in Dubai?

The official language of Dubai is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.

6. What are the Must-Visit Attractions in Dubai?

Dubai has a plethora of attractions for tourists, and it can be overwhelming to decide what to see. Some of the must-visit attractions in Dubai include:

• Burj Khalifa – the tallest building in the world
• Dubai Mall – one of the largest shopping malls in the world
• Palm Jumeirah – a man-made island in the shape of a palm tree
• Dubai Fountain – a choreographed fountain show
• Dubai Miracle Garden – a flower garden featuring over 45 million flowers
• Burj Al Arab – a luxury hotel with a distinctive sail-shaped design
• Desert Safari – a thrilling experience of sand dune bashing, camel riding and traditional Arabian cuisine

7. What is the Transport System like in Dubai?

Dubai has an extensive transport system, including taxis, buses, and the metro. Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable, while the metro is a convenient and efficient method of transportation, especially for tourists.

8. Do I need a Visa to Visit Dubai?

Visa requirements for Dubai vary depending on your country of origin. Some nationalities are allowed to enter Dubai without a visa for a limited period, while others need to obtain a visa before arrival. It is advisable to check with the relevant authorities regarding visa requirements before planning a trip to Dubai.

9. Can I Drink Alcohol in Dubai?

Alcohol consumption is allowed in Dubai but restricted to licensed establishments such as bars and restaurants within hotels. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places or to drive under the influence of alcohol.

10. What is the Time Zone in Dubai?

Dubai is in the Gulf Standard Time (GST) zone, which is four hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+4).

Conclusion

Dubai is a city that offers a unique and fascinating experience for tourists. Understanding the basics about Dubai, such as the dress code, currency, and transport system, can help visitors have a more enjoyable trip. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope to have provided you with useful information to make your trip to Dubai a memorable one.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Dubai

Dubai is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. It’s a city that stands out from the rest because of its exquisite architecture, landmarks, and luxury shopping. It’s a beautiful city with breathtaking views, and once you visit, you’ll want to come back. In this guide, we will discuss how to spend your time as a tourist in Dubai.

1. Visit the Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building globally, standing at 829 meters tall. Visiting this skyscraper is the highlight of most tourists’ trips to Dubai. The building has two observatory decks: At The Top, located on the 124th floor, and At The Top SKY, located on the 148th floor. The observation deck on the 148th floor offers unbeatable views of the city. We recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

2. Visit Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls globally and a must-visit destination in Dubai. The mall houses over 1,200 retail stores, a huge indoor aquarium, a vast indoor ice-skating rink, and an extensive food court. You can also witness the Dubai Fountain show, a stunning water and light show set to music, outside the mall.

3. Take a Tour of Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden is one of the world’s largest flower gardens, with over 45 million flowers in various species. Visiting the garden is a unique experience, and the colorful hues and fragrances will be a great treat for your senses. Dubai Miracle Garden also holds several Guinness World Records for its floral displays.

4. Visit the Palm Jumeirah Island

Palm Jumeirah Island is an artificial island and one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, shaped like a palm tree. The island is home to luxurious hotels, such as Atlantis, The Palm, and Waldorf Astoria. You can take a leisurely stroll along the island’s walkways or take a tour on a Palm Jumeirah Monorail.

5. Visit the Dubai Museum

The Dubai Museum is located in Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai’s oldest building, built-in 1787. The museum features exhibits that depict Dubai’s cultural heritage, including traditional houses, historical photographs, and ancient maps of the UAE. Visiting the museum will give you a glimpse into Dubai’s fascinating history and culture.

6. Take a Desert Safari Tour

Taking a desert safari tour is a thrilling experience and a must-do activity in Dubai. The tour includes dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. You can also experience an authentic Arabian dinner under the stars, complete with traditional Arabic entertainment like belly dancing.

7. Visit the Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Creek is a natural seawater inlet that separates the two main city centers, Deira and Bur Dubai. You can take a traditional wooden boat ride called Abra across the water to explore the city’s cultural landmarks. You can also visit the souks at Dubai Creek, which sells everything from textiles to spices and gold.

8. Visit the Dubai Opera

Dubai Opera is a stunning performance venue located in Downtown Dubai. The building’s design is inspired by the shape of a dhow, a traditional Arabian sailing vessel. The venue offers a diverse range of events, from opera and ballet to concerts and comedy. You can book your tickets in advance to experience this fantastic cultural center.

Conclusion

Dubai is a magical city that offers a fascinating blend of culture and modernity. The city is full of exciting opportunities that will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s visiting the world’s tallest building, shopping at one of the world’s largest malls or experiencing a thrilling desert safari, Dubai has something for everyone. We hope this guide will help plan your trip to Dubai and make the most of your time here.