Dubai Old Quarter Street Food Tour: Spice Souk, Abra & Meena Bazaar Tasting Walk
Walk the lanes of Old Dubai, cross the creek by abra and taste traditional Arabic, Indian and Asian flavors in a compact four-hour tour. Learn spice stories, bargaining tips and the local history that feeds the city.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear sturdy, closed shoes
Alleys and souk floors are uneven and can be crowded—supportive footwear keeps you comfortable for the full four hours.
Bring a small cash reserve
Many vendors prefer cash for bargaining and small purchases—keep small dirham notes handy.
Time your tour for cooler hours
Early evening or morning tours avoid peak heat and make outdoor tastings more pleasant.
Declare dietary needs in advance
Tell the operator about allergies or dietary restrictions when booking so guides can adapt tasting stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Coffee Museum in Al Fahidi for a quieter look at regional coffee culture
- •Al Seef’s restored waterfront alleys and rooftop views across the creek
Wildlife
- •Western Reef Heron and gulls around the creek
- •Common myna and white-eared bulbuls in market trees
Conservation Note
Support small local vendors and avoid single-use plastics; preserving the character of the souks depends on respectful tourism and local business support.
Dubai Creek was the city’s original lifeline for trade and pearling; the souks grew up around this maritime trade and still sell many of the same spices and gold that once passed through dhow cargo holds.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Support and traction for uneven souk floors and city sidewalks.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated in hot weather; bottled water is provided but a refillable bottle reduces waste.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Protects against strong sun during daytime walking and while waiting near the creek.
Small daypack
Carry purchases, a light layer, and personal items without hindering the walk.
Common Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes—hotel pickup and drop-off are included; confirm your pickup point at booking.
Are food tastings included and how many stops are there?
Yes—tastings at three different locations are included, showcasing Arabic, Indian and Asian-influenced street foods.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour notes state wheelchair accessibility for main areas and transportation, but some alleys and bazaar stalls can be tight—contact the operator to confirm specific needs.
What languages are available?
The tour is generally multilingual but for last-minute bookings and during July–August it may be offered in English only—check at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires comfortable walking for up to 4 hours and negotiating crowded markets
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