Old Souk Dubai – The Arabic Shopping Experience

By ArabiaHorizons On Nov 17, 2020

Dubai is a shopping hub with large malls offering some of the most luxurious brands in the world. From Gucci to Armani, you can buy it all! However, the hidden charm of the great city lies within the old souk Dubai and other traditional markets.

Nestled in the heart of Bur Dubai, the old souk offers an insightful glance into Arabic culture and history. This is a fun shopping experience for anyone.

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All About Old Souk Dubai

The old souk Dubai is located on the southern side of Dubai Creek at Bur Dubai. Also known as the textile souk, the souk is a perfect shopping destination for textiles, Arabic style attire, and non-branded clothing.

A trip to Old Souk is akin to going back in time. There are sand-colored walls, high wooden doors, buildings made from sand color stones, and wooden roofs. This is a real glimpse into the old Dubai era.

Walking in, the old Souk Dubai is bright with colors of fabrics and other items that will grab your attention. There are numerous shops and stalls selling cotton, raw silk, wool, and cashmere. This also includes textile accessories such as buttons and lace.

Apart from textile products, there are many more items up for sale at Old Souk. These are quality products including footwear, perfumes, spices, and delicious dry fruits. Everything is reasonably priced but you can bring out your bargaining skills for lower prices and get as many items as you can.

To get to Old Souk Dubai, you can take a metro from either Al Fahidi Station or Al Ghubaiba station and walk from there. Alternatively, take an Abra (water taxi) from Deira and cross the Dubai Creek to reach the souk. The ride will give you additional views of Dubai Creek to enhance your shopping experience.

The Old Souk is Open from Saturday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. After your shopping spree, you can visit other sights within walking distance. These include the Dubai Museum, Al Fahidi District, and Sheikh Mohammed Center.

Other Souks in Dubai

Apart from Old Souk Dubai, you can visit other fascinating souks to shop within the city.

Dubai Gold Souk

The Gold Souk is located on the Deira side of Dubai Creek. This is the place to get the most exquisite jewelry pieces with beautiful designs.

There are rows with all types of immaculately crafted jewelry and gemstones on display. Get yourself a beautiful piece of jewelry as a memento for your trip.

Spice Souk Dubai

Next to the gold souk is the spice souk, another must-visit location. Here, you will be mesmerized by the aromatic mounds of spices, colors, and herbs displayed in front of the stores.

Buy a few bags to add a taste of Arabia to your dishes. The spice souk also sells incense, tea, dried fruits, nuts, and other Dubai delicacies.

Perfume Souk Dubai

Located in Deira as well, the perfume souk gives you sweet fragrances and more! You can create your own perfume with the help of perfumers and make your own signature scent.

Alternatively, choose perfumes from small glass vials to bring with you. Among other items you can purchase at the perfume souk include essence oils, incense sticks, and traditional ittars.

Souk Al Bahar

Located in Downtown Dubai, this souk is a modern Arabian Souk. Here, you can purchase traditional items such as carpets and handicrafts.

You can also treat yourself to beautiful jewelry pieces and sweet-smelling perfumes.

With a prime location next to Burj Khalifa, you can also visit the restaurants at this souk with great views of the iconic building. If lucky, you will also see the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show.

Naif Souk

The Naif Souk used to be a marketplace for selling camels. Currently, though, you can buy a variety of goods including leather products, electronics, textiles, and other souvenir items to bring with you.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Souk Madinat Jumeirah is located in Jumeirah. The souk offers high-end shopping in a traditional setting. Here, you will find luxury brands, galleries, and other unique items to purchase.

The old souk Dubai shopping experience is unrivaled. This is where you will find the authentic Arabic taste with items ranging from clothing, perfumes, jewelry, and more.