Dubai City Tour — Old & New: Abra Ride, Palm Jumeirah and the Souks
See both historic Dubai and its modern feats in one guided sweep: abra rides on Deira Creek, a driving tour of Palm Jumeirah, and a stroll through spice and gold souks. Ideal for first‑time visitors who want efficient, curated access to the city’s highlights.
The Experience
Before You Go
Protect against the sun
Bring a wide‑brim hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—shade is limited during outdoor photo stops on the Palm and at the Dubai Frame.
Dress respectfully for mosque visits
Men and women should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees; women may be asked to cover their hair at certain mosques.
Carry small cash for souks and tips
Many vendors prefer dirhams and bargaining is expected in the spice and gold souks; small notes make transactions easier.
Plan photography timing
Early morning or late afternoon light is best for Burj Khalifa, Palm Island and creek scenes to avoid harsh midday glare.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Al Fahidi’s narrow wind‑tower lanes and courtyard cafés for lesser‑known photo angles
- •Al Seef waterfront at sunset for creekside scenes away from the busiest tourist piers
Wildlife
- •Greater flamingo (seen seasonally in nearby Ras Al Khor wetlands)
- •Western reef heron and shorebirds along Dubai Creek
Conservation Note
Rapid coastal reclamation and development have transformed local habitats—visitors should respect protected areas like Ras Al Khor and minimize single‑use plastics and litter.
Dubai grew from a 19th‑century pearling and trading port; Al Fahidi Fort (now Dubai Museum) reflects the city’s maritime and trading roots.
What to Bring
Sun hat & sunglassesEssential
Shade and glare protection during outdoor stops and while crossing the creek on an abra.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Support for short walks on uneven heritage‑house paths and souk alleys.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated—temperatures can climb rapidly during daytime stops.
Light scarf or shawl
Useful for modest dress at mosques and for sun protection on the abra.
Common Questions
Is mosque entry included?
The tour includes a visit (entry) to Jumeirah Mosque when possible; modest dress is required and some mosques have restricted visiting hours on certain days.
Will we ride an abra?
Yes. The tour includes an abra water‑taxi ride across Deira Creek as part of the old‑city experience.
Are hotel pickups provided?
Yes—hotel pickup and drop‑off are offered for centrally located Dubai hotels; pickup windows usually start between 8:00–9:30 AM depending on your location.
Can I shop at the souks during the tour?
You can visit the spice and gold souks; the itinerary allows short stops but serious shopping may require extra time after the tour for bargaining and comparing prices.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5–6 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light walking ability is sufficient; participants should be comfortable boarding an abra and walking short museum/heritage trails.
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