The Bur Dubai Souk Market, also known as the Old Souk or Dubai Textile Souk, is one of the oldest markets in the city. This traditional market is located near Dubai Creek and is famous for its colourful fabrics, souvenirs, and bustling local shops.
With narrow lanes, wooden archways, and a lively atmosphere, the souk offers a glimpse into Dubai’s trading past. Let’s explore the Bur Dubai souk in our guide below.
- Overview
- Architecture and Design
- What to Buy
- Abra Ride
- Food Scene
- Nearby Attractions
- Nearby Communities
- How to Get There
- FAQs
Bur Dubai Souk Market – Overview
Dubai Old Souk, also known as Bur Dubai Souk, is a traditional marketplace located in the Bur Dubai area, right beside Dubai Creek. With a history that spans over a century, it was once a key stop for traders from across the globe. Today, it remains a vibrant shopping spot known for its narrow lanes lined with stalls and shops.
Visitors can browse a wide range of goods, including colourful fabrics, raw silk, wool, cashmere, and traditional clothing like abayas and thawbs. The souk is also famous for its aromatic spices, oud, and handcrafted perfumes.
Haggling is expected, making the experience lively and interactive. It is one of the most popular souks in Dubai, where you can explore the city’s trading roots and pick up unique souvenirs.
Architecture and Design of the Bur Dubai Souk Market
The Bur Dubai Souk’s architecture reflects traditional Arabian design, giving visitors a glimpse into Dubai’s past. Inside, the souk features narrow walkways covered by wooden beams and shaded by high wooden roofs, which help keep the space cool.
Many shops are set within old-style buildings made from coral stone, gypsum, and palm wood, once common in the region. Wind towers (barajeel) can also be spotted above some structures used for natural cooling before air conditioning.
The souk’s interiors are simple but charming, with wooden shutters, lantern-style lighting, and colourful fabric displays hanging from shopfronts.
What to Buy From the Bur Dubai Souk Market
The Bur Dubai Souk has no shortage of unique items to take home.
- It’s best known for its wide variety of textiles, including raw silk, cotton, wool, and beautifully embroidered fabrics.
- You’ll also find traditional clothing like abayas, kanduras, and scarves in many colours and styles.
- Like the Spice Souk Dubai, Bur Dubai Souk is also a great place to shop for spices—from saffron and cardamom to dried herbs and spice blends.
- Perfumes and oud oils are popular, too, with many shops offering custom-made scents.
- Don’t miss the souvenirs and handicrafts, including decorative lamps, wooden carvings, and beaded slippers.
Whether you’re after everyday items or one-of-a-kind gifts, the souk offers something for everyone—bargaining is all part of the fun.
The Traditional Abra Ride Near Bur Dubai Souk
An abra ride is a must when visiting Bur Dubai Souk. These small wooden boats ferry passengers across Dubai Creek for just AED 1 per ride. The short journey offers a scenic view of old and new Dubai, with bustling souks on one side and modern buildings on the other.
The Food Scene at the Souk
Adjacent to the Bur Dubai Souk, a welcoming seating area near the abra stations offers a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy the vibrant surroundings. Flanking the souk are numerous small cafés and food stalls. They provide a variety of refreshments and snacks, making it an ideal place for families to gather, take leisurely walks, and enjoy the cooler weather by the waterfront.
Among the local delights, you can savour fresh coconut water for AED 10, with the coconut cut right before you. Freshly juiced sugarcane is another popular choice, offering a sweet and revitalising drink. For a quick bite, you can also visit the shawarma stall just across the road from the abra station for a perfect, satisfying snack.
Other nearby restaurants near the souk are:
- Bayt Al Wakeel: Approximately a 2-minute walk from the souk, this restaurant offers traditional Emirati cuisine along Dubai Creek.
- Al Bait Al Qadeem Restaurant: It is about a 7-minute walk away and serves a blend of local Emirati dishes in a historic setting.
- Anchor Bar: Located roughly a 10-minute walk from the souk, near Dubai Museum, this place offers a variety of curries and beverages.
Nearby Attractions
Here are some of the popular attractions near the Bur Dubai Souk Market:
- Al Fahidi Fort: Approximately a 5-minute walk.
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: Around 6 minutes on foot.
- Grand Mosque: Roughly a 7-minute walk.
- Textile Souk: About 3 minutes away.
- Al Seef Street: Approximately a 10-minute walk.
- Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House: Approximately a 15-minute walk.
- Al Shindagha Museum: About 14 minutes away.
Nearby Communities
Here are some communities located within a 15-minute walking distance from the Bur Dubai Souk:
- Al Fahidi: 5 minutes away
- Al Souk Al Kabir: 3 minutes away
- Al Raffa: 10 minutes away
- Al Hamriya: 12 minutes away
- Al Mankhool: 15 minutes away
How to Get There
Accessing this traditional market is straightforward, with several convenient transportation options available:
By Metro
The Dubai Metro’s Green Line provides easy access to the souk:
- Al Ghubaiba Metro Station: Approximately a 10-minute walk from the souk.
- Al Fahidi Metro Station: Also about a 10-minute walk to the market.
By Bus
Dubai’s extensive bus network includes routes that stop near the Bur Dubai Souk. You can use the following routes that have stops within walking distance of the market:
- 15
- 29
- 33
- 44
- C1
- C18
- C3
To plan your journey, consult the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website or use the RTA mobile app for real-time schedules and route information.
By Abra (Water Taxi)
For a traditional and scenic approach, consider taking an abra across Dubai Creek:
- From Deira to Bur Dubai: Board an abra at Deira Old Souk Abra Station, which will ferry you directly to the Bur Dubai Abra Station adjacent to the souk.
This short journey offers a glimpse into Dubai’s rich maritime heritage and provides a unique arrival experience.
By Taxi or Car
Taxis are readily available throughout Dubai, and you can drop them off directly at the souk. If driving, be aware that parking in the area is limited due to narrow streets and high demand. It’s advisable to use public transportation or park in designated areas nearby and walk to the souk.
FAQs
Yes, visiting the souks offers a rich, hands-on experience that malls and boutiques simply can’t match. The lively mix of colours, scents, and crowds creates a unique atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
You can buy international and local goods at Old Souk Bur Dubai. As you step in, the sight of brightly lit candles, colourful fabrics, and cushions immediately grabs your attention. The market has shops and stalls offering cotton, raw silk, wool, cashmer,e and more.
Yes, bargaining is common and even expected in Bur Dubai Souk. Shopkeepers usually initially quote higher prices, so don’t hesitate to negotiate. Just be polite and friendly while doing it.
Bur Dubai Souk is more than just a shopping spot—it’s a glimpse into the city’s rich trading history. The experience is as memorable as the finds, from vibrant textiles to aromatic spices. If you’re in Dubai, this market is definitely worth a visit. Also, explore other best souks in Dubai, such as The Springs Souk or Perfume Souk, for a more versatile shopping experience.
