Textile Souk (Old Souk),Dubai

Textile Souk (Old Souk) in Bur Dubai sits on the western bank of Dubai Creek and represents the city’s historic role as a trading entrepôt. Before Dubai’s oil boom, the creek shoreline was the commercial heart where dhows from India, Persia and East Africa delivered goods—textiles being a major commodity. The souk showcases Dubai’s multicultural trading history and the continued influence of South Asian textiles and craftsmanship on the city’s retail landscape.

Dubai Old Souk
Bur Dubai Souk (aka "Textile" Souk)
Bur Dubai Souk (aka "Textile" Souk)

Places to visit

  • Rows of small, family-run textile shops selling silks, cottons, brocades, satin, chiffon, and sequined fabrics
  • Tailoring and alteration services offering same-day or next-day custom work
  • Specialty shops for bridal fabrics, saris, abayas and Indian/Pakistani dress materials
  • Accessory stands selling trims, beads, ribbons, buttons and embellishments
  • Nearby Meena Bazaar and the historic Al Fahidi/Bastakiya district for combined visits

Unique Aspects

  • Vibrant displays of colours and fabrics spilling onto narrow lanes
  • Opportunity to see and commission local tailoring and hand-embroidery
  • Traditional market atmosphere with haggling as the norm
  • Close proximity to Dubai Creek with abra (water taxi) crossings giving a historic transport experience

Things to do

  • Shopping for dress fabrics, saris, scarves, and home textiles
  • Bargaining with shopkeepers to negotiate prices
  • Ordering tailored garments or alterations from local tailors
  • Photography of colourful stalls and street scenes (ask permission before close-up shots)
  • Taking an abra ride across Dubai Creek and exploring Bur Dubai’s heritage sites

Best Time to Visit

November to March for pleasant daytime temperatures; evenings year-round are cooler and lively. Early mornings on weekdays are less crowded.

Weather Conditions

Desert climate: hot and humid in summer (June–September) with temperatures often exceeding 40°C; mild and comfortable winters (December–February) with daytime highs around 20–30°C.

Entry Fees & Permits

Free to enter. Individual shop opening hours vary—commonly open from mid-morning (around 09:30–10:30) through evening (often until 21:00–23:00). Hours can change during Ramadan and public holidays, and some stalls may close in the mid-afternoon.

Accessibility

Easily reachable by taxi and public transport. Nearest Green Line metro stations: Al Fahidi and Al Ghubaiba (both a short taxi/foot ride). Frequent abra (traditional boat) crossings link Bur Dubai to Deira near the souks. Pedestrian access within the souk is via narrow lanes; not all areas are wheelchair-friendly.

Recommended Duration

1–3 hours for browsing, bargaining and tailoring; allow extra time if ordering custom garments or visiting nearby attractions.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Light, breathable clothing in summer; modest attire recommended (shoulders and knees covered) out of respect for local customs. Comfortable shoes for walking the narrow lanes. A small umbrella or hat and water in hot months.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Try local refreshments like karak tea, shawarma and Emirati sweets at nearby cafés. Recommended souvenirs: embroidered fabrics, pashminas, saris, abaya materials, decorative trims, beadwork and bespoke garments tailored on-site.

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