Explore old Dubai with National Geographic's new tour
Travel expert National Geographic has just made it easier for travellers to discover the historic and authentic side of Dubai on a new self-guided walking route through the heart of the old city beside Dubai Creek. The walk allows visitors to see Dubai’s heritage highlights all in one go.

Travel expert National Geographic has introduced a new self-guided walking tour that makes it simple for visitors to discover the old centre of Dubai. Taking in the historic Dubai Creek area that encompasses Shindagha, which was the site of the first settlement, the tour includes heritage attractions, museums, mosques and souks.
The route around Dubai Creek reveals another side to the Middle East’s most glamorous and modern destination. The walk begins at Dubai Museum, housed in Al Fahidi Fort, which showcases the city’s metamorphosis from sleepy fishing village to glittering metropolis. It then heads towards the serene domes of the Grand Mosque before veering down Hindu Lane lined with little shops selling religious wares.
For an authentic Arabian experience, Bur Dubai Souk, right next to the Dubai Creek waterfront, is one of the highlights of the walk with small stores selling all kinds of glittering kaftans, slippers and fabrics. You can also view Arabian heritage buildings down by the waterside where the old defensive watchtower of Shindagha and the wind catchers add a distinctly local feel to the skyline.
The route leads visitors to another fascinating spot –the Heritage and Diving Village– which is a recreation of Dubai’s original fishing settlement offering a traditional coffee house, Arabian eateries, pearl diving displays and a souk specialising in local arts and crafts.
National Geographic advises travellers to start the stroll in the late afternoon and stay in the area to enjoy dinner at one of the many al fresco eateries along the waterfront. It also recommends catching a traditional abra water taxi from Bur Dubai dock for an evening cruise along the creek.
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