dubai cultural tour

Semi Private Dubai Cultural Tour: Modern Glimpse Of The Past

Cultural Tour

175 $

Dubai
4 hours

Tour Activity Details

Tour Timings:

09:00am – 01:00pm

 

A Dubai cultural tour  would typically include visits to some of the city’s most important cultural and historical sites.

Dubai is a city in the United Arab Emirates known for its modern architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife. The city has a rich history, which can be explored through a variety of dubai cultural tour.

These tours typically visit sites such as the Dubai Museum, which offers a glimpse into the city’s past and traditional way of life; the Jumeirah Mosque, which is one of the city’s oldest and most iconic landmarks; and the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, which is home to a number of restored traditional buildings, including the Dubai Museum.

Other popular historical sites in Dubai include the Dubai Creek, which was an important center of trade and commerce in the past; and the Heritage and Diving Village, which showcases the city’s maritime history.

The “old” part of Dubai refers to the city’s historical and traditional areas, where visitors can experience the sights, sounds, and culture of the city as it was in the past. Some popular places to visit in the old part of Dubai include:

  • During this Dubai cultural tour you will visit the Dubai Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the city’s past and traditional way of life, with exhibits that cover the history, culture, and customs of the region.
  • During this Dubai cultural tour you will visit  Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: This area is home to a number of restored traditional buildings, including the Dubai Museum, and offers a glimpse into the city’s history and traditional way of life.
  • During this Dubai cultural tour you will cross the Dubai Creek: The creek was an important center of trade and commerce in the past, and is now home to a number of traditional markets, such as the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk, where visitors can experience the sights, sounds, and smells of traditional Arabian culture.
  • The Heritage and Diving Village: This village showcases the city’s maritime history and culture, with exhibits on pearl diving and traditional boat-building.
  • The Bastakia Quarter, an historic area that dates back to late 19th century and early 20th century, where visitors can see the traditional architecture and wind-tower houses of the merchants who lived in Dubai during that time.
  • During this Dubai cultural tour you will visit Dubai Fort (Al-Fahidi Fort), The oldest existing building in Dubai, was built in 1787 and served as a residence for the ruling family, a seat of government and a defense structure.
  • During this Dubai cultural tour you will visit Dubai Textile souk, the souk is famous for traditional fabrics, such as silk and cotton, and clothing items like the traditional Emirati dishdashah and abaya.

These places and during this dubai cultural tour you will get an authentic glimpse of the traditional and historical side of Dubai, which is a stark contrast to the glitzy and modern image the city is known for today.

 

 

 

Itinerary :

 

1.Walk Through Al Seef Neighborhood

A walk through Al Seef in Dubai is a great way to experience the heritage, culture, and traditions of the city. During your walk, you can expect to see a variety of traditional and modern elements that make Al Seef unique. Some things you might see and experience include:

  • Traditional Architecture: Al Seef features a collection of restored traditional buildings, including traditional houses and wind towers, which provide a glimpse into the city’s past and traditional way of life.
  • Outdoor spaces and walkways: The main outdoor promenade feature wooden decking, seating area, and landscaping that provide visitors with a relaxing and pleasant environment, overlooking the Creek and traditional architecture of the surrounding area.
  • Retail shops and Souks: As you walk through Al Seef, you will come across a variety of shops selling traditional products such as textiles, perfumes, and spices, as well as modern souvenirs, crafts and jewelry.
  • Restaurants and Cafes: You’ll find a wide range of dining options, with a variety of traditional and international cuisines. Visitors can enjoy a meal while overlooking the creek and the traditional architecture of the area.
  • Cultural and Heritage experiences: Visitors can take traditional boat rides, enjoy cultural performances and workshops, or explore the area’s rich history through guided tours and interactive exhibits.
  • Hotels and Accommodations: Al Seef also features multiple hotels which offer visitors a chance to stay in the heart of the old Dubai.

You can also expect to see a vibrant atmosphere, with visitors and locals alike wandering the streets, enjoying the sights and sounds of the area.

As you walk through Al Seef, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the city’s history and culture, while also experiencing a modern and vibrant atmosphere. The area is walkable and well-maintained, so it’s easy to explore on foot and you can really take in all the sights, sounds and smells at your leisure.

 

3.Photostop At Jumeirah Mosque

The Jumeirah Mosque is a famous mosque in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is one of the largest mosques in the city and is particularly notable for its unique architecture, which combines traditional Islamic design elements with a modern, contemporary style. It is made of white stone and can accommodate up to 1,200 worshippers at a time. The mosque is open to non-Muslims for guided tours, which are held on certain days of the week. Visitors are asked to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque. Taking photographs is generally allowed inside the mosque, but visitors should be respectful of those who are praying and avoid taking pictures during prayer times.

 

2.Walk Through Al Fahidi Neighborhood

Al Fahidi Neighborhood is a historic district located in the Bur Dubai area of Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The neighborhood features a mix of traditional and modern architecture, with many of the original coral-stone houses and wind towers still standing. These houses were built using traditional construction methods and materials, such as coral rock, gypsum, and teakwood, to keep the interiors cool in the hot desert climate.

Visitors can take a walk through the narrow, winding streets of the neighborhood and explore the various art galleries, cultural centers, and museums that have been set up in the restored houses. The Dubai Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Fort, is also located here and provides a good introduction to the history and culture of the city.

Another notable attraction is the XVA Gallery, which is dedicated to contemporary art and photography from the Middle East. And also the Coffee Museum, which tells the story of the famous Arabic coffee, and provides a glimpse into the traditional way of roasting, brewing and serving the coffee.

Additionally, the neighborhood is also home to several traditional courtyard houses that have been converted into boutique hotels and restaurants, allowing visitors to experience a taste of traditional Arabian hospitality.

If you are looking for a sense of the culture and history of Dubai, Al Fahidi neighborhood is definitely worth a visit.

 

3.Crossing Dubai Creek By Abra (Water Taxi)

Crossing the Dubai Creek by Abra, also known as a “water taxi”, is a popular way to experience the city’s historic heart and traditional way of life. The creek, which is a saltwater inlet that runs through the city, has played a significant role in Dubai’s history and development as a major trading and transportation hub.

An Abra is a small, traditional wooden boat that is powered by an outboard motor. They are operated by the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) and are a cheap and efficient way to cross the creek. They run frequently, so you won’t have to wait long for the next one. The fare for an Abra ride is very exciting.

When crossing the creek by Abra you will be able to see the traditional souks on both sides of the creek, where you can find a variety of goods, such as gold, spices and textiles. You will also see many historic buildings and landmarks, such as the Dubai Museum, and Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum House.

It’s a great experience for tourists and a nice way to get around, but please be aware that the abra’s are open and not airconditioned so if you’re taking the ride in hot weather, it might not be the most comfortable experience.

 

4.Visit Dubai Spice Market

The Dubai Spice Souk, also known as the Old Souk, is a traditional market located in the Deira neighborhood of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The market is a maze of narrow lanes filled with colorful spices, herbs, and exotic seasonings. It is one of the oldest markets in the city and has been a popular destination for locals and tourists for many years.

At the Spice Souk, you will find a wide variety of spices from all over the world, including saffron, turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, and black pepper. In addition, you will find traditional Middle Eastern spices such as zaatar, sumac and baharat. You can also find a wide range of dried fruits, nuts, and teas.

When visiting the Spice Souk, you will be able to see the traditional way of selling spices and you can also haggle with the vendors to get the best price. Be aware that the market can be quite crowded and it can get quite hot inside during the summer, it’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and dress modestly.

It’s a great place to visit for those interested in spices, cooking and culture, and it also make a great place for souvenir shopping. You can find good quality products at fair prices.

 

4.Visit Dubai Gold Market

The Dubai Gold Market, also known as the Dubai Gold Souk, is a traditional market located in the Deira neighborhood of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The market is a hub for the gold trade in the city and is known for its wide variety of gold products, such as jewelry, coins, and bars, as well as its competitive prices.

The Gold Souk is home to hundreds of shops, all of which specialize in gold. You can find a wide range of gold products, from simple gold bands to ornate, diamond-studded jewelry. The gold is sold by weight, and the prices are usually quoted in per gram or per ounce.

When visiting the Gold Souk, you will be able to see traditional ways of selling gold and you can also haggle with the vendors to get the best price. You will also find traditional designs of Arabic jewelry and can also find modern designs in many of the shops.

It’s important to note that gold price in Dubai is based on live market price, which may fluctuate and always subject to change depending on the demand, you can find more information on the gold price on the shops, or use a gold price calculator.

The market can be quite crowded and it can get quite hot inside during the summer, it’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and dress modestly. It’s a great place to visit for those interested in gold and jewelry, and also make a great place for souvenir shopping.

 

5.Traditional Local Lunch

When visiting Dubai, one of the best ways to experience the local culture and cuisine is by enjoying a traditional local lunch. There are many options available throughout the city, but some of the most popular traditional dishes include:

  • Machboos: A popular dish made with rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a variety of spices. This dish is considered the national dish of Bahrain and is commonly served throughout the Gulf region.
  • Shawarma: A popular fast food dish made with marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) that is cooked on a spit and shaved off to be served in a wrap or pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
  • Harees: A porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, usually lamb or chicken. This dish is often eaten during Ramadan, but is also popular year-round.
  • Machbous Al Khodar: A seafood dish made with rice, fish and seafood, tomatoes, onions, and various spices.
  • Machbous Mandy: A traditional Emirati dish made of slow-cooked lamb or chicken with spices, onions, tomatoes, and yogurt, served over rice.

You can find traditional local restaurant in Deira, and also in other places like Dubai creek, Al Fahidi neighborhood, you can also find such traditional meals in many of the traditional hotels in Dubai.

When dining out, it’s a good idea to dress modestly, especially if you’re visiting a more traditional restaurant.

 

 

Included :

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off.
  • All entrance fees to museums.
  • Local traditional lunch .
  • Water on-board and one soft drink per person.
  • Professional Licensed and friendly Tour Guide.

 

Not Included :

  • Gratuities (Optional)

Reference
ID: 81640
Activity Type
Cultural Tour
Location
Dubai
Available From
02/01/2022
Available To
08/31/2025
Departure
Dubai
Destination
Dubai old
  • 24h Free Cancelation for full refund ,no question asked .
  • Private tour with ability of adjusting the itinerary to fit a certain theme.
  • Professional licensed and friendly Tour Guide to add luster to your tour.
  • Discover the cultural side and traditional sites of Dubai.
  • Get to know Bedouin customs and traditions.
  • Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant near Dubai Creek.
  • Learn about the early days of settlement in Dubai.

Your friendly tour guide will meet you at the Hotel lobby . Alternatively you can wait in the room and he will call you ones he reach

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood is a historic district in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The construction of Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood dates back to the 1890s. In its prime, the locality was capable of 60 housing units, most of which were separated by narrow, winding lanes.

Dubai Museum is the main museum in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is located in the Al Fahidi Fort, built in 1787 and is the oldest existing building in Dubai. The museum was opened by the Ruler of Dubai in 1971, with the aim of presenting the traditional way of life in the Emirate of Dubai.

The Heritage Village was created in 1997 in Al Shindagha Historical Neighborhood in Dubai, close to the Diving Village, to embrace the heritage events and to display a live image of the old traditional life in UAE.

Dubai Spice Souk is a shopping at t traditional souk, such as Dubai Spices. Souks, exposes travelers to Arab style marketplaces where goods are bought and sold. Dubai Gold Souk or Gold Souk, is a traditional market in Dubai, UAE. The souk is located in Dubai's commercial business district in Deira, in the locality of Al Dhagaya. The souk consists of over 380 retailers, most of whom are jewelry traders

The city of Dubai offers a wide range of Emirati restaurants, serving delicious Emirati food. Discover the traditional cuisine and taste UAE

At the end of the tour your friendly Tour Guide will drop you back to your hotel or any place you want within Dubai city
4.0 out of 5.0
Service 4
Value for Money 4
Transportation 4
Safety 4

5 thoughts on “Semi Private Dubai Cultural Tour: Modern Glimpse Of The Past”

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By Theodore (United States)

November 12, 2022 at 8:07 am
4

We delved into the history & origins of the culture to it’s transition to a very modern & advanced country. Our tour guide, Nauman Aziz was amazing. Puntual, knowledgeable, very thorough & accommodating. Picked us up at the airport & after the tour, Dropped us off at port for our cruise. VIP Tourism customized our tour w such ease! Thanks for making our holiday a memorable event

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By Carmen (Australia)

November 12, 2022 at 8:09 am
4

The tour was good and very informative. We enjoyed it very much ,Nauman our guide was excellent , very polite and he loves his job .

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By Leanne (United States)

November 12, 2022 at 8:10 am
5

This tour was great, excellent value for the money. It would be especially good for single travelers or those that don’t want to negotiate their way around the old city. I ended up including a friend at the last minute and this was not a problem. Our guide Mounir was very knowledgeable, and flexible. He was great about dealing with the extreme heat outside by balancing activities inside and out. He gave as much or as little time in any given area. He also added on lunch at a traditional restaurant which was a great experience. Highly recommend this tour.

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By jennifer (United States)

November 12, 2022 at 8:11 am
4

This was a fantastic tour. Mounir picked me up at my hotel exactly on time. I didn’t realize it was a private tour but I’m glad it was because Mounir let me change my itinerary as I pleased. He is extremely informative and I literally asked me over 50 different questions – from religion, equality of women to everyday life in Dubai. We pretty much explore all the areas listed on the site. I did however really wanted to try local food and Mounir was kind enough to take me to a place even though it wasn’t on the itinerary! It was great! While I did to get to see the top highlights of Old Town, what I really value about this tour is the deep knowledge that Mounir has about Dubai culture and his ability to really impart that to me. If you are a historian or an avid traveler, this trip is well worth it

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By Emma (United States)

November 12, 2022 at 8:12 am
4

Zeeshan was a Great tour guide, fun times and I highly recommend this to anybody visiting Dubai

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