Things to do in Deira Dubai

Deira is one of the oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods in Dubai, and there are many things to do and see in this area. From traditional souks and abra rides to museums and parks, Deira has something to offer amazing for all ages.

In this blog, we will explore some of the best things to do and see in Deira Dubai, one of the oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods in the city. Whether you’re interested in shopping, exploring local culture and history, or just enjoying some delicious food, Deira has plenty to offer. So, let’s get started.

Visit the Dubai Gold Souk

The Dubai Gold Souk is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. Located in the heart of Deira, this bustling market is a feast for the senses, with hundreds of shops and stalls selling everything from gold jewelry and precious gemstones to intricate Arabian-inspired designs. The souk is home to some of the world’s most skilled goldsmiths and jewelers, and visitors can browse and haggle over a vast selection of gold necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings.

The souk is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can expect a lively and colorful atmosphere, with vendors calling out to customers and bargaining over prices. Whether you’re looking to purchase a special gift for a loved one or simply want to admire the incredible craftsmanship on display, the Dubai Gold Souk is an experience not to be missed.

Take a traditional abra ride

A traditional abra ride is one of the best ways to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Deira. Abras are small traditional boats that have been used for centuries to transport people and goods across the Dubai Creek. Today, abra rides offer visitors a unique perspective on the city, as they glide past historic buildings, bustling souks, and iconic landmarks.

Abra ride is both affordable and relaxing, and the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You can hop on an abra from several locations along the creek, and rides typically last around 10-15 minutes. During the ride, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of the creek, and perhaps even snap a few photos. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, an abra ride is a memorable experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in Deira.

Explore the Spice Souk

In Deira, exploring the spice souk is a must-do activity for foodies and those interested in local culture. The Spice Souk is located in the heart of Deira, close to the Dubai Creek, and features dozens of shops selling a wide range of spices, herbs, and traditional Arabic perfumes. The souk is a bustling and colorful marketplace, with vendors calling out to customers and haggling over prices. Visitors can expect to find a vast array of spices, including cinnamon, saffron, turmeric, and cardamom, as well as dried fruits, nuts, and exotic teas.

Walking through the Spice Souk is an experience for the senses, with the heady aromas of spices wafting through the air, vibrant colors and textures, and the sound of vendors selling their wares. You can chat with the vendors, learn about the different spices and their uses, and even taste some of the local delicacies.

Whether you’re looking to purchase spices for cooking, souvenirs to take home, or just want to explore the unique atmosphere of the souk, a visit to the Spice Souk is an unforgettable experience. The souk is open every day, and visitors are encouraged to take their time and explore the many different stalls and shops. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, the Spice Souk is a must-visit destination in Deira.

Choose from a Variety of Courses

At Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, you will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of courses, including The Championship Course, Park 3 Course, and The Mini Golf Dubai Course. Depending on your level of experience, you can take classes at the Peter Cowen Academy in Dubai Creek. Prices may vary depending on the class, membership, and coach. There are also special classes for children and ladies only.

Lounges and Restaurants

Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club is not just a place for sports. There are also several lounges and restaurants on the premises that offer breathtaking views of the iconic Dubai Creek. Cielo Sky Lounge and Boardwalk Restaurant are two of the most popular places to unwind and enjoy a good meal or drink.

Relax at Swissotel Spa and Sports

If you’re looking to escape the stress of the day, the Swissotel Spa and Sports is the perfect place to relax. The spa offers an array of treatments that cater to your individual needs, and the facilities include a gymnasium and an outdoor pool. You can refresh your body and mood with the jacuzzi, steam, sauna, or relaxing lounge. And let’s not forget about the massage and beauty & facial treatments that will make you want to come back for more.

Shisha at QDs

For those looking to enjoy a good shisha, QDs is one of the best lounges in the area. Not only do they offer amazing shisha, but they also have an extensive food menu and a variety of cocktails to choose from. If you’re lucky, you might even catch some good music played by the DJ or watch live sports on the massive screen.

Visit the Dubai Museum

The Dubai Museum is one of the fascinating destinations for history buffs and those interested in learning about the culture and heritage. Located in the historic Al Fahidi Fort in the heart of Dubai’s old town, the museum features exhibit and displays that cover the city’s history, from its early Bedouin roots to the modern metropolis it is today.

Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including traditional Emirati architecture, traditional dress and customs, and ancient artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age. The museum also includes several interactive displays, such as a recreated souk and a traditional Arab house, providing a hands-on experience of the city’s rich heritage.

One of the highlights of the museum is the underground galleries, which offer a unique insight into the traditional way of life in Dubai. Visitors can learn about the city’s history of pearl diving and trade, as well as the challenges of living in a harsh desert environment.

Walk around the Al Rigga Road

Walking around Al Rigga Road in Deira is a great way to experience the local culture and explore the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The road is located in the heart of Deira, and is one of the busiest streets in the area, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Strolling down Al Rigga Road, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds and smells of the city, with vendors calling out to customers and the aroma of freshly cooked food filling the air. You’ll pass by local shops selling everything from traditional spices and textiles to modern fashion and electronics.

One of the highlights of Al Rigga Road is the abundance of street food vendors, offering a wide range of local delicacies at affordable prices. You can sample delicious Dubai Best shawarmas, falafels, and grilled meats, or try some of the city’s famous sweets and pastries.

Deira Fish Market

Deira Fish Market is a must-do activity for seafood lovers and those interested in the local culture of Dubai. The market is located near the Dubai Creek and is one of the largest fish markets in the region, offering an incredible selection of fresh fish, shrimp, crab, and lobster.

The market is bustling with activity, with vendors calling out to customers and fishermen unloading their daily catch from nearby boats. Visitors can watch as the fish are cleaned and prepared, and even purchase the seafood on the spot to take home or have cooked at one of the nearby restaurants.

Walking around the Deira Fish Market is a sensory experience, with the sights, sounds, and smells of the seafood filling the air. You can learn about the different types of fish and seafood available in the region, as well as the traditional fishing methods used by local fishermen.

Deira Clocktower

The Deira Clocktower, also known as the Dubai Clocktower, is a landmark destination in the heart of Deira. Located at the intersection of Umm Hurair Road and Al Maktoum Road, the Clocktower is an iconic structure that has been a fixture in Dubai’s skyline for decades.

Built in the 1960s, the Clocktower was originally intended to serve as a roundabout and traffic control point, but has since become a popular tourist attraction. The tower features a large clock face on all four sides, with Arabic calligraphy adorning the top of the structure.

Visitors to the Deira Clocktower can take in the stunning views of the city from the top of the structure, or simply admire the architecture and design from ground level. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a unique photo opportunity, the Deira Clocktower is a must-visit destination in Dubai.

Take a food tour of Deira

Taking a food tour of Deira is a great way to experience the rich and diverse culinary culture of Dubai. With its bustling streets and vibrant atmosphere, Deira is home to a wide range of traditional restaurants, street food vendors, and local markets that offer a variety of delicious dishes.

A food tour of Deira typically includes stops at several local restaurants and food vendors, where visitors can sample traditional Emirati dishes, as well as foods from other parts of the Middle East and Asia. Popular dishes include shawarmas, falafels, kebabs, biryani, and a variety of seafood dishes.

In addition to the food itself, a food tour of Deira provides visitors with a unique insight into the local culture and way of life. You can learn about the history and traditions behind each dish, as well as the techniques and ingredients used to create them.

Visit the Dubai Heritage Village

The Dubai Heritage Village is a living museum that showcases the traditional Emirati way of life. Located in the heart of the city, near the Dubai Creek, the village offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and cultural heritage of Dubai.

The village features a number of traditional buildings, including a mosque, a wind tower house, and a pearl merchant’s house. Visitors can explore these buildings and learn about the traditional architecture, as well as the daily life of Emirati families.

In addition to the buildings, the Dubai Heritage Village also features a number of workshops and demonstrations, where visitors can see traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving, as well as performances of traditional music and dance.

Visit the Dubai Creek Park

Dubai Creek Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in Dubai, offering visitors a wide range of activities and attractions. Located along the Dubai Creek, the park features extensive green spaces, playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and cycling. The park offers stunning views of the city skyline, as well as the traditional dhows and abras that still operate along the Creek.

In addition to its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Dubai Creek Park also features a number of attractions such as a mini golf course, cable car ride, and the Dubai Dolphinarium.

Explore the Naif Souk in Deira

Naif Souk is a bustling marketplace located in the heart of Deira, Dubai. The souk is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique shopping experience with its narrow alleys and colorful stalls.

Visitors can explore a wide range of goods and merchandise, from traditional Arabic clothing and accessories to electronic gadgets and souvenirs. Bargaining is a common practice in the souk, so visitors can enjoy trying to haggle for the best prices.

Moreover, Naif Souk is also a great place to experience the local culture and way of life. Visitors can sample traditional Arabic street food, listen to live music performances, and even get henna tattoos.

Visit the Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

The Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House is a historical building located in the heart of Dubai, near the Dubai Creek. The house was built in the late 19th century and served as the residence of the ruling Al Maktoum family for several generations.

Today, the house has been restored and transformed into a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Dubai. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including photographs, documents, and artifacts related to the history of the Al Maktoum family and the development of Dubai.

Visitors can explore the various rooms and chambers of the house, including the majlis (reception room), the courtyard, and the living quarters. The museum also features a traditional wind tower, which was used for natural air conditioning in the hot desert climate.

Visit the Al Mamzar Beach Park

Al Mamzar Beach Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique combination of natural beauty and modern amenities. Located in the north-eastern part of Dubai, the park features extensive green spaces, four beautiful beaches, and a wide range of facilities for visitors to enjoy.

You can relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Gulf, or take part in a variety of water sports such as jet skiing and paddleboarding. The park also features a large swimming pool complex, several children’s playgrounds, and barbecue areas for picnics. Al Mamzar Beach Park also offers a range of dining options, including cafes and restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.

Waterfront Market: A Haven for Fresh Produce in Dubai

If you’re looking for the freshest produce in Dubai, look no further than Waterfront Market. This bustling market is home to an immense selection of fish, with 435 stalls selling raw cuts. Whether you’re in the mood for salmon, tuna, or something more exotic, you’re sure to find it here. And with so many vendors competing for business, you can rest assured that the prices are reasonable.

In addition to fish, Waterfront Market is also a great place to buy meat. You’ll find towering piles of fresh beef and lamb, and you can choose your cut in any quantity you need. Best of all, you’ll be able to watch as the butcher prepares your meat right in front of you. With such high quality and low prices, it’s no wonder that Waterfront Market is a favorite destination for foodies in Dubai.

But that’s not all you’ll find at Waterfront Market. The market also offers a wide assortment of spices, from traditional Middle Eastern flavors like cumin and cardamom to international mixes like barbecue and marinade powders. And if you’re in the mood for some fresh fruit, you’ll find it here as well. A bunch of fruit costs just AED 1, making bulk shopping a great idea.

In addition to food, Waterfront Market is also a great place to shop for clothes, books, and perfumes. And when you’re ready for a break, you can visit one of the many restaurants located in the market. Costa and Dome cafe, Papa Johns, and Paluto Restaurant by Chef Boy Logro are just a few of the options available to help you refuel.

Hor Al Anz Library: A Peaceful Haven for Book Lovers

For book lovers in Dubai, Hor Al Anz Library is a must-visit destination. Established in 1989, this haven of books contains works by both established and emerging writers in both Arabic and English. Whether you’re looking for fiction or non-fiction, you’re sure to find something to love here.

The library even has a separate section for children, complete with a reading hall and an activity room with audiovisual facilities. If you’re looking to instill a love of reading in your child, Hor Al Anz Library is the perfect place to start.

Membership at Hor Al Anz Library is valid only for UAE nationals and residents, UAE registered companies, and GCC nationals. However, people from all over the world are welcome to visit and read books, newspapers, and magazines there. And if you’re looking for even more reading options in Dubai, there are many other public libraries in the city that you can subscribe to.

Go shopping at the Deira City Centre

Deira City Centre is a popular shopping mall located in the heart of Deira, Dubai. The mall offers a wide range of shopping and entertainment options, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and exciting day out in Dubai.

With over 370 stores, Deira City Centre has something for everyone, from high-end luxury brands to affordable fashion and electronics. The mall also features a range of dining options, from fast food outlets to fine-dining restaurants.

Deira City Centre offers a range of entertainment options, including a multiplex cinema, a bowling alley, and an indoor theme park. The mall also hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year, making it a dynamic and vibrant destination for visitors of all ages.

Visit the Perfume Souk in Deira

Located in the heart of Deira, Dubai, this traditional market offers a wide range of fragrances and essential oils, all at affordable prices. Visitors can explore the various stalls and shops in the souk, which offer a range of perfumes and fragrances made from natural ingredients. Many of the perfumes are created using traditional methods passed down through generations of local families, making them unique and authentic.

Adding more, the Perfume Souk also offers a range of oils, incense, and other aromatic products. Visitors can also learn about the history and culture of perfume making in the region, making it a fascinating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Visit the Dubai Dolphinarium in Deira

The Dubai Dolphinarium is a unique and exciting attraction located in the heart of Deira, Dubai. This indoor facility offers visitors the opportunity to see dolphins, seals, and other marine animals up close and personal. The Dolphinarium features a variety of entertaining and educational shows and performances, including a dolphin and seal show, a bird show, and a 5D cinema experience.

Dubai Dolphinarium also offers educational programs and activities designed to promote marine conservation and environmental awareness. However, a visit to the Dubai Dolphinarium is a must-do activity for anyone looking for a fun and exciting day out in Dubai.

Play at Bowling Centre Dubai

Looking for an exciting activity to do in Deira? The Dubai International Bowling Centre offers a fun-filled atmosphere and attracts numerous players from all over Dubai. But it’s not just any regular bowling alley. It’s a massive entertainment center that offers more than just bowling.

The Bowling Center has numerous billiards tables and arcade games, providing entertainment for people of all ages and interests. So, if you’re not in the mood for bowling, you can easily switch to other fun activities that the center has to offer. Whether you are a family looking for a fun day out, a group of friends on a night out, or simply looking for a way to pass the time, the Bowling Centre has something for everyone.

Fun at Deira Islands

If you happen to be in Deira, you might want to check out the Deira Islands, a new development project that is set to add more excitement to the area. Located parallel to the old shoreline, the Deira Islands were initially intended to be the third of Dubai’s trio of palm-shaped islands. However, the project was suspended during the financial crisis of 2008.

After years of being in limbo, developers Nakheel announced in late 2013 that the project would resume, now under the name Deira Islands. The project has been scaled down and will comprise three miniature islands formed from the land that was already reclaimed.