Bur Dubai is the historic heart of the city — the restored wind-tower lanes of Al Fahidi (Bastakiya), the textile souk, Dubai Creek and the one-dirham abra crossing. This is old Dubai at its most atmospheric, and the perfect antidote to the glass towers.
Walkable, characterful and easy to reach, Bur Dubai packs a lot of the city’s heritage into a small area. Here is how to explore it, as part of our main Dubai guide.
Getting your bearings in Bur Dubai
Al Fahidi’s heritage quarter sits right beside the Creek, with the textile souk, the busy Meena Bazaar and the waterfront promenade at Al Seef all close by. A traditional abra crosses the Creek to Deira for a dirham.
Where to eat in Bur Dubai
Bur Dubai is a treasure-trove of authentic, well-priced food, from Meena Bazaar’s South Asian classics to the waterfront restaurants at Al Seef. Start with the best restaurants in Dubai and the best dining offers.
Heritage and things to do in Bur Dubai
Wander the wind-tower lanes of Al Fahidi, visit the museum inside Al Fahidi Fort, ride an abra across the Creek and browse the souks — much of it costs nothing, so see free things to do and things to do in Dubai.
Where to stay
Boutique heritage guesthouses in Al Fahidi and Creek-side hotels offer a very different stay from the beach districts, steeped in old-Dubai character.
Getting to Bur Dubai and around
The Metro (Al Fahidi and Sharaf DG stations) and the Creek abras make getting around cheap and easy, and the old town is best explored on foot.
Best time to visit
The cooler months from October to April are ideal for walking the old town; go early or late in the day to beat the midday heat, and catch an abra at sunset.
Explore more of Dubai
Across the Creek: Deira. Or head back to the main Dubai guide.