Old Dubai Street Food Tour
A guided walking and tasting tour through the historic neighborhoods of Bur Dubai and Deira, sampling authentic Emirati and pan-Arab street foods, visiting spice markets and local food stalls, and learning about the culinary and cultural history of Old Dubai. The tour blends savory and sweet tastings, short historical stops, and a chance to experience local daily life in the souks.
Location
Bur Dubai & Deira (Old Dubai), Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Duration
3–3.5 hours (evening preferred)
Best Time to Visit
October to April (cooler months). Best time of day: early evening (around 6:00 PM–9:30 PM) when stalls are lively and temperatures are comfortable.
Pricing
AED 150–250 per person (approx. USD 41–68). Typical inclusions: 6–8 food tastings, local guide, water, and a hot beverage (karak tea or Arabic coffee). Optional extras: private tour surcharge (AED 200), transfers (AED 80–150), or additional drinks/dishes not included.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Tasting authentic Emirati dishes and popular street foods: karak tea, shawarma, falafel, samosas, mixed grills, and sweet luqaimat.
Exploring the aromatic Spice Souk and the bustling Al Fahidi/Bur Dubai lanes.
Trying regional specialties from Indian, Pakistani, and Levantine vendors that reflect Dubai's multicultural food scene.
Learning about Dubai's trading and culinary history from a local guide.
Visiting small family-run eateries and hidden local gems away from tourist traps.
Itinerary
Meet-up at a designated point near Al Fahidi/Bur Dubai or a central metro stop (e.g., BurJuman or Al Ras).
Guide will give a short orientation, safety briefing, and outline of the tastings. Arrive 10 minutes early to check in.
Walk through Bur Dubai lanes to first tastings
Sample Emirati coffee/karak tea and a savory snack while learning about the neighborhood's history.
Visit a popular shawarma and mixed-grill stall
Tasting of freshly made shawarma, kebab skewers, and Arabic flatbread.
Cross to Deira; explore the Spice Souk and local market stalls
Guide explains spices and ingredients used in Emirati and regional cooking. Small tastings of pickles, hummus, or regional chutneys.
Street sweets stop: luqaimat and Arabic desserts
Try syrup-drenched luqaimat and other local sweets; vegetarian options provided.
Final savory stop or sit-down at a family-run eatery
Option to sample a local curry, biryani, or traditional Emirati rice dish depending on group preferences.
Wrap-up and Q&A; recommendations for further eating and exploring
Tour ends near a metro or abra station; guide provides tips for the rest of the evening.
Safety Requirements
Inform the guide of any food allergies or dietary restrictions (vegetarian, halal, gluten intolerance) before the tour starts.
Street food hygiene varies—participants with very sensitive stomachs should exercise caution.
Be prepared for crowds, uneven pavements, and occasional traffic when crossing streets; wear comfortable closed shoes.
Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer and use before eating.
Stay hydrated—carry bottled water, especially in warmer months.
Tips
Bring small change (AED cash) for tips, extra purchases, or small snacks not included in the tour.
Wear comfortable shoes and light layers; evenings can be breezy near the creek.
Tell the operator about dietary restrictions when booking—vegetarian and halal-friendly options are widely available.
Try the karak tea — it's a local favorite and often included as the welcome drink.
Take photos but ask stall owners first if you plan to photograph them closely or their food preparation.
If you want to continue exploring after the tour, ask the guide for their favorite local eateries and hidden souk corners.
