Dubai's Old Town Visit with Traditional Lunch

We have designed a customized tour just for you, and we encourage you to learn about the social values of the local community and Dubai's history! Dubai is well-known for its modern attractions; it is where the unthinkable becomes achievable. However, the history of this tale, which dates back thousands of years, is also fascinating. From the Al Shindaga historic quarter, we will start our tour. We will go to the center of this neighborhood, established by the royal family Al Maktoum, and see beautiful examples of traditional architecture. You will learn about the emirate's past rulers, daily routines, and goals and aspirations for Dubai. We will also stop by a weaving and pottery studio in the Al Shindaga historic neighborhood and the coffee museum, where you can learn about the background of this unique drink and get a chance to sample it.

Then we'll take a traditional Abra, a wooden boat taxi, and ride down the Dubai Natural Canal — the Dubai Creek, a World Heritage Site, according to UNESCO. The 14.4 km long Dubai Creek separates the city's two districts, Bur Dubai and Deira. We'll make a stop in Deira, which was previously known as the epic mall, to tour the two main markets: the spice souk and the gold souk. Indeed, souks are the most iconic symbol of Arabia.

Traders have arrived here by boat to transport their goods from neighboring countries since ancient times. These include colognes, gold, gold linens, and spices. You will have free time to wander about and shop in the spice market, which has a considerable Indian and Persian influence, and the gold market, which houses one of the largest collections of gold and jewelry worldwide. Here you will have free time to enjoy your shopping. And then, we'll go to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), located in Al Fahidi's old quarter. You will learn much about UAE culture by having lunch with an Emirati local at this location. As you try a variety of regional cuisines while sitting on embroidered Bedouin-style carpets, the host will answer any of your questions. Prepare for a fantastic journey!

Highlights: Al Shindaga district, the residence of Sheikh Saeed, the Dubai Creek, traditional wooden boat ride, Deira district, Dubai Museum, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, Al Fahidi's historical district, traditional lunch.

Departure: daily except Friday.

Includes: a tour, hotel pick-up, drop-off, air-conditioned car transportation, an admission pass to the Dubai Museum, a ride on the old-fashioned wooden boat Abra, cold mineral water, and lunch with locals. The price for children between the ages of 3 and 11 is $79 per person.