Adventure Collective
Old Dubai Walking Tour Highlights with Wander with Nada - Dubai

Old Dubai Walking Tour Highlights with Wander with Nada

دبيeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires light walking on flat to uneven surfaces.

Overview

Step beyond Dubai’s modern skyline into the historical streets of Old Dubai with Wander with Nada’s private walking tour. Unearth centuries of culture, spice markets, and creek crossings during this enriching 4-hour journey.

Dubai, Dubai

Old Dubai Walking Tour - Private

From AED1575 • Journey through time on the Old Dubai cultural tour • 4 hours • from 7yrs old

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 4-hour walking tour of Old Dubai, where history comes alive. Discover the city’s transformation from a humble village to a vibrant destination as you explore spice souqs, ride a traditional abra, and savor a delicious meal. Experience Emirati culture and hospitality in this unforgettable journey.

Take a walking tour with me in Old Dubai where the caravan camels once roamed.

Duration: 4 hours

Price: 1 person: AED 1,575 2 people: AED 1,785 3 people: AED 1,995 4 people: AED 2,187.22 5 people: AED 2,371.10 6 people: AED 2,409.81 7 people: AED 2,743.71 8 people: AED 3,135.65 9 people: AED 3,527.61 10 people: AED 3,919.57 11 people: AED 4,311.52 12 people: AED 4,703.48

Highlights

Dubai’s historic and humble beginnings tell a story like no other. We’ll start the day by marching (not literally, just light walking involved) the streets of old Dubai stopping by several enchanting sights and witnessing the city’s dynamic history woven by its people. My goal is to take you through a journey of tales and show you just how the small Arab village became a top destination throughout the sands of time.

We'll learn about the emirate’s history and people as we wander its streets and the aromatic spice and shiny gold souqs (markets). We’ll meet shop owners and learn the secrets behind some of the world’s most expensive traded items. We'll hop on a traditional wooden abra boat (think Arabian gondola minus the singing) and cross over the magnificent Dubai Creek. We’ll explore the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood with its merchant houses and their incredible windtowers, and enjoy gahwa or Arabic coffee, a quintessential symbol of Emirati hospitality. By then, I guarantee our stomachs will be grumbling loud enough to guide us themselves to one of Dubai’s best eats where we will break bread together over a delicious meal.

Inclusions

  • The tour includes a lunch meal as the grand finale which is pre-ordered, non-vegetarian, and served on a sharing basis.
  • Vegetarian options are minimal but are available so please do ensure to select the correct one when booking. Tour members with dietary restrictions can include this information at the check out or must contact us in advance to the tour to see if they can be accommodated. Anything additional will be covered at your own cost e.g. soft drinks, additional food.

Exclusions

  • A visit to the Dubai Museum or the Al Shindagha Museum, unless otherwise notified. Guests who wish to explore them can do so at their own leisure. Update: Please note that the Dubai Museum is currently undergoing restoration and is closed until further notice.

Important to bring for the tour

  • Change (20 and 10 DHS bills) if you wish to buy any souvenirs.
  • Charged cameras.
  • Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, comfy flat shoes, and light fabric clothing during summer (recommended not to wear jeans).
  • Bottled water to keep hydrated and an appetite for our meal!

Meeting point

  • The meeting point is at the Al-Shindagha Museum Drop-off point. Google Maps link here. You will receive more info in the confirmation email.
  • If you have opted for transportation, then the meeting point will be at your hotel.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable, flat shoes

The tour involves several hours of walking on uneven, sometimes sandy streets—shoes with good support will keep you comfortable.

Bring sun protection

Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are crucial, especially during midday when shade is limited along the route.

Carry local currency

Small bills (10 and 20 AED) make it easier to purchase souvenirs at souqs or tip vendors encountered along the walk.

Stay hydrated

Pack a bottled water to avoid dehydration, as Dubai’s climate can quickly exhaust you during outdoor tours.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Common myna birds navigating the souq rooftops
  • Feral cats often resting near market stalls

History

Old Dubai grew around the Dubai Creek, once a key hub for pearl diving and trade routes connecting the Arabian Peninsula.

Conservation

Local efforts focus on preserving Old Dubai’s architecture and promoting sustainable tourism that honors Emirati heritage.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Dubai

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfy walking shoes

Essential

Provides support and comfort on varied surfaces throughout the tour.

Sunglasses

Essential

Protects eyes from harsh glare during sunny midday hours.

summer specific

Hat or cap

Essential

Shields your head and face from strong sun exposure.

summer specific

Water bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated in Dubai’s dry or hot climate during the walk.