Discover the Historic Soul of Dubai

While individual shop hours may vary, the Gold and Spice Souks are generally open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Saturday to Thursday. Many shops close for an afternoon break (around 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM). On Fridays, most shops open after 4:00 PM. Museums and galleries have their own specific timings, so it's best to check ahead.

No, exploring the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and browsing the souks is completely free. You can wander through the alleys and soak in the atmosphere at no cost. However, some specific attractions within the area, like the Coffee Museum or Dubai Museum, may have a small entrance fee.

To respect the local culture, a modest dress code is recommended. We suggest wearing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal for Dubai's climate. Most importantly, wear very comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking!

Most of the larger, more established shops in the Gold Souk accept credit cards. However, in the Spice Souk and with smaller vendors, cash is often preferred and can give you better bargaining power. It's a good idea to carry some local currency (AED) for smaller purchases and the abra ride.

Absolutely! Bargaining, or haggling, is part of the culture and is expected, especially in the Spice and Textile Souks. In the Gold Souk, the price of gold is fixed by weight, but you can negotiate the price of the craftsmanship. Always be polite, friendly, and have a price in mind. A good starting point is often 50% of the asking price, and you can negotiate from there.

Yes, it's a wonderful place for families. Children often enjoy the sensory experience of the souks, the excitement of the abra ride, and exploring the maze-like alleyways of Al Fahidi. However, the area can get crowded, so it's best to keep a close eye on young children. Strollers can be difficult to navigate in some narrow or busy areas.

Many companies offer guided walking tours of Old Dubai, which can be a great way to learn about the history and culture from a local expert. The Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) also offers excellent heritage tours and cultural meals that provide deep insights into Emirati traditions.

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