Experience

Dubai Creek & Souks

Raffles Dubai

Take a drive into the Dubai desert

The Creek, a natural seawater inlet which cuts through the centre of the city, is the historic focal point of life in Dubai. A stroll along its banks evokes the city’s centuries-old trading traditions. A good way to view the Creek, and the dhows, is from an abra, one of the small water taxis which criss-cross the Creek from the souks of Deira to the souks on the Bur Dubai side.

The souks on both sides of the Creek do not just attract visitors for their shopping bargains. Sightseers and photographers are also drawn by the innate charm of the place. Along the slightly wider lanes of the gold souk, each shop window is arrayed with gold necklaces, rings, bangles, earrings and brooches. In the evenings this area is a hive of activity; and gold prices are among the lowest in the world.