Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood & Spice/Gold Souk, Dubai, UAE

The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a well-preserved heritage site that dates back to the late 19th century.  The Spice Souk and the Gold Souk are two iconic markets in Dubai.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood: Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Dubai Spice Souk: 41 34th St – Deira – Al Ras – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Dubai Gold Souk: Deira – Al Ras – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Date Picture Taken: March, 2024

The Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood was about 15 15-minute walk from where I stayed, so I walked there.

The historical neighborhood.

The alleys are narrow, creating natural shades. The buildings are clean and well preserved, making them seem like new buildings.

The opened buildings were either some stores or cafes/restaurants.

The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, also known as Al Bastakiya, is an actual historical area in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is not a mock-up but rather a well-preserved heritage site that dates back to the late 19th century. The neighbourhood has genuine historical significance, as it was one of the earliest settlements in Dubai and provides valuable insights into the city’s traditional architecture, lifestyle, and cultural heritage.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood consists of authentic buildings constructed using traditional Arabian architectural styles and materials. These structures were originally homes for wealthy merchants and traders who played key roles in Dubai’s early economy.

Maybe I came too early. There were very few people walking around, making it feel like the whole area was empty.

This is a model of a camp house showing how they lived in the desert.

This is a small area, but most of the buildings are occupied.

I came to the main entrance to the neighborhood.

And across the street are more traditional buildings like this one.

I walked across the street to the buildings

More people were here, and more stores were opened

Next to the buildings is the Dubai Creek

I wanted to cross this creek to reach Dubai Spice Souk and Dubai Gold Souk. To do that, I needed to find the boat transport.

I must walk past the Bur Dubai Souk Market to reach the boat area.

I passed through the market, turned around, and looked at the market entrance.

Then, I kept walking toward the water boat area that would take me across the creek.

This was the boat that transported individuals over the water. However, I was unaware at the time, so I continued walking away from the area.

I missed the boat boarding area but found a nearby Metro station with a train that goes across the water, so I walked towards it.

I boarded the train and arrived at the opposite side.

There were many wholesale markets here.

I headed towards Dubai Spice Souk.

People bowing 

The Spice Souk

Reached one end of the market

Turned around and looked back

I began walking towards the Dubai Gold Souk, which is located nearby.

One of the entrances to the Gold Souk

At one end of the Gold Souk

I walked towards the metro station to return to my hotel.

Came back to an area near my hotel