Marine Transport in Dubai

Recent and ongoing developments around the landscape of Dubai have included various man-made canals and natural waterways. Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) has made it possible to travel across these waterways and take a more traffic-free route in order to get to your destination. Not only are there more than one mode of marine transport, but they are all very economical for both residents and tourists.

The traditional wooden Abra boats are most frequently travelled between Dubai Creek, located in the heart of old Dubai, making it a wonderful way to discover the charm of the old city. Also popular with tourists is Dubai Ferry – a modern 100-passenger capacity ferry cruising around the city’s most breathtaking views from the coastline.

Other ways to travel on the tranquil waterways include the Dubai Water Taxi and Dubai Water Bus. Often mistaken for each other, they are, in fact, two different services offered by the RTA operating in different parts of the city.

What is Dubai Water Taxi?

Working just as a normal taxi would on the road, the Dubai Water Taxi is designed to help passengers transit between different locations, except that it travels on the city’s waterways. Although enjoying a bit of sightseeing from these mini air-conditioned water taxis is possible, they are generally used more as a way to commute.

Each Water Taxi can comfortably seat 10 passengers, complete with personal LCD monitors for all.

Routes for the Dubai Water Taxi

Operating between two zones, there are 44 stations spread across the city, from where you can hop on and off. Zone 1 includes the modern skyline of the cosmopolitan city, which includes Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. On the other hand, Zone 2 takes you across a heritage route and includes Dubai Creek and the Dubai Water Canal.

For the complete list of all 44 stations, please check the page on the official RTA website, as shown in the map below.

Dubai Water Taxi Cost

Tickets for a Water Taxi can either be booked online through the RTA website, emailing WtBook@rta.ae or by calling the RTA toll free number – 8009090. The Water taxi will then be available to pick you up from your chosen location.

Depending on how far you wish to travel, tickets can cost between AED 55 – AED 205.

Water Taxis can also be chartered for an hourly rate of AED 400 – a great idea if you have a group and need to get between two points of the city on the water.

Frequency of Dubai Water Taxi

Dubai water taxis are flexible and run on-demand only from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

What is a Water Bus in Dubai?

Similar to the Water Taxi, the Dubai Water Bus is also a modern way to commute across the water, but it only operates in Dubai Marina.

With only short distances between each stop, it is an ideal way to enjoy this traffic-free route between towering high-rise buildings of this fast-paced city. There are plenty of modern landscapes to see on the ride, from rows of privately owned yachts to going under bridges.

Make the journey even more memorable and photograph-worthy by sailing at sunset or after dark as you catch lights shimmering from the various buildings and watch cafes along the promenade fill up with people.

Each Water Bus has an enclosed air-conditioned interior and is able to comfortably seat 20 passengers, including people of determination. They are currently updating the fleet from older white and red water buses to modern airconditioned abras.

Dubai Water Bus Routes

The Dubai Water Bus operates in Dubai Marina, between four scenic locations:

• Marina Terrace
• Marina Walk
• Dubai Marina Mall
• Marina Promenade

There are plans underway to extend an additional route to Blue Waters.

More Dubai Water Options

If you’d rather have something that was more sightseeing and touristy, Dubai has you covered too! There are a lot of different operators out of Dubai Marina who’ll take you beyond the high rises and out onto the open water for spectacular views of Palm Jumeirah and the city skyline.

Try some of these water-based tourist boat options in Dubai:

Dubai Wonder Bus?

Please note that the Dubai Water Bus is different to the Wonder Bus.

The Wonder Bus is a private tour operator with a brightly coloured amphibious vehicle that takes tourists on a 15-minute tour of many of the highlights along Dubai Creek. We are not associated with this company, and it is not public transport.

Take me back to Dubai Essential Planning Information

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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Dubai is a luxurious and extravagant destination that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Towering skyscrapers, fine dining, luxury shopping – what’s not pleasant about the City of Gold?

However, the desert heat can put off even the most avid pool lovers. If you’ve ever sat on those red-hot loungers under Dubai’s scorching sun, you know the level of discomfort we’re referring to.

The good news is that Dubai has a solution to the problem – indoor swimming pools.

There are several hotels in Dubai with indoor pool facilities that you can book for your relaxing stay. These hotels provide a refreshing escape from the heat, allowing you to enjoy your swim without worrying about getting that unwanted sunburn.

Plus, with Dubai’s unpredictable weather, having an indoor swimming pool as a backup option is always nice. You know how the rare rainy or dust-stormy days can disrupt plans.

The question is, which of these hotels with indoor pools in Dubai should you book?

To make selecting a hotel with an indoor pool in Dubai a breeze, we’ve had our scouts on the ground and found these incredible hotels to try in Dubai. Ready? Let’s go swimming!

This page contains affiliate links to our preferred suppliers. We earn a commission on qualifying bookings.

Summary of the Hotels in Dubai with Indoor Pool

We’ve summarised our top picks of resorts in Dubai offering an indoor pool – or read on for the details!

Hotel Name	Key Features & Perks	Pricing
Burj Al Arab	2 outdoor pools Talise Spa indoor pool 8 signature restaurants Access to Wild Wadi Waterpark and Jumeirah Beach Hotel private beach	Check Here
Four Seasons Resort Dubai	Private beach 2 outdoor swimming pools and a lavish spa Indoor pool State-of-the art fitness centre 2 tennis courts and a jogging track by the beach	Check Here
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray	Talise Ottoman Spa Beach frontage Outdoor infinity pool Private cinema Sinbad Kids Club Ottoman themed rooms Large indoor pool	Check Here
Dukes The Palm	Fitness centre Spa and wellness centre Children's playground Lazy river Outdoor infinity pool 14th floor indoor pool - all ages	Check Here
Sofitel Dubai The Palm	12 dining venues Private beach 6 pools Amura kid’s club Amura Spa with indoor pool (additional charge) and Polynesian beauty treatments	Check Here
The Ritz Carlton	First class spa facilities Five outdoor swimming pools One indoor pool for adults only Ritz Kids Club	Check Here
Bulgari Resort Dubai	Fitness centre 1,700 square-metre Spa with hammam 25m indoor pool and vitality pool Little Gems Kids Club	Check Here
Raffles The Palm	500-metre private white sand beach An outdoor swimming pool offering views of the city Cinq Mondes Spa and indoor pool - adults only 6 culinary experiences	Check Here
Grand Hyatt	2 huge outdoor swimming pools with slides Indoor lap pool and spa - all ages Ahasees Spa	Check Here
JA Palm Tree Court	800-metre private beach 6 temperature-controlled outdoor swimming pools Indoor pool - all ages Pirates & Mermaids kids club 25 dining outlets Tennis court, shooting range, Fitness centre, golf course	Check Here

More Dubai Hotel Inspiration

If you’re looking for some of the best accommodation choices in Dubai, we have you covered. Why not also check out:

• The best hotels in Dubai with infinity pools
• Hotels in Dubai with a view of Burj Khalifa
• Dubai hotels that offer private pool villas & suites
• Family-friendly resorts that include slides, water parks & lazy rivers
• These are the most unique hotel stays in Dubai

Take me back to the best attractions in Dubai

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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Pop over here if you want a complete guide to Duabi’s public transport systems

What are the different ways to travel on water in Dubai?

There is more than one way to travel along the waterways of Dubai.

• The modern air-conditioned Water Taxis allow you to travel from 44 different stations in the city while enjoying the tranquillity of the water.
• The Dubai Abra boat is a city icon and the most traditional way to commute across Dubai Creek, a reminder of the city’s heritage.
• Finally, Dubai Ferry is yet another modern mode of transport that encompasses all the scenic locations of Dubai, making it ideal for tourists too.

What is the Dubai Ferry?

Operated by Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA), and one of the newest additions to the Emirate’s expanding public and tourist transport system, the Dubai Ferry service is not only a means of local transport for the residents but also a tourist attraction in itself.

It is on these ferries that you gain a unique perspective of this city, from a traffic-free route while passing by major tourist spots like Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Burj al Arab, Dubai Water Canal, Jaddaf, Old Dubai and Ghubaiba.

With six major routes, boarding the Dubai Ferry is a wonderful way to explore the city’s tourist-friendly places and the breathtaking coastline.

Each ferry has the capacity to seat up to 100 people on board, including wheel chair and stroller users. Sitting comfortably in these air-conditioned ferries, you will not find a more comfortable way to travel across the city’s waterways and explore some of the most historical and iconic landmarks.

Features on Dubai Ferry:

1. Seating arrangement: There are 84 silver class seats, 14 gold class seats and 2 disabled seats on board.
2. Onboard Kiosk: You can choose to buy snacks and souvenirs from the kiosks
3. LCD screens: These screens display educational videos about the prominent attractions you pass along on your travels on the waterways, allowing you to learn while you travel.
4. Restroom facilities: Separate restrooms for the men, women and disabled.

How many Dubai Ferry terminals are there?

There are five Dubai Ferry terminals around the city, from which you can hop on and off, depending on your route. These are:

• Dubai Marina
• Al Ghubaiba
• Dubai Canal
• Al Jaddaf
• Sheikh Zayed Road

Dubai Ferry Routes

Ever since its launch in 2011, Dubai Ferry has expanded its various routes, including an inter-city route between Dubai and Sharjah. This route, allowing commuters to travel between two emirates without the fuss of regular road traffic, has been a welcome addition. This particular inter-city route stops very close to Sharjah Aquarium, making it a wonderful day trip to plan with the family.

Another new addition has been the route along the Dubai Water Canal, providing beautiful views of the canal and the cosmopolitan city’s skyline. It is also easily the longest waterway in Dubai, and you can enjoy the experience of floating beneath the Dubai Canal Waterfall!

Scheduled Dubai Ferry services run daily from the five terminals. You can plan your visit by accessing the RTA website. Here are the routes available:

Route 1:  Al Ghubaiba Ferry Station – Dubai Water Canal Station – Dubai Marina Mall Station and vice versa

• Timings: 11:00 am, 01:00 pm and 06:30 pm
• Duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Route 2: Al Ghubaiba Ferry Station – Floating Bridge – Hyatt Regency Hotel – Al Ghubaiba Ferry Station

• Timings: 03:00 pm
• Duration: 1 hour – round trip

Route 3: Al Ghubaiba Ferry Station – Jumeirah Beach – Al Ghubaiba Ferry Station

• Timings: 05:00 pm
• Duration: 1 hour – round trip

Route 4: Dubai Marina Mall Station – along Dubai Marina – Atlantis – Dubai Marina Mall Station

• Timings: 03:00 pm
• Duration: 1 hour – round trip

Route 5: Dubai Marina Mall Station – Palm Jumeirah – Atlantis the Palm – Dubai Marina Mall Station

• Timings: 05:00 pm
• Duration: 1 hour – round trip

Route 6: Al Ghubaiba Marine Station – Sharjah Aquarium Marine Station

• Timings: 7:45 AM, 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM
• Duration: 35 minutes – round trip

It is advisable to check the official RTA website for timings and any chane ges before you begin your journey on the Dubai Ferry. The Dubai Ferry schedule is subject to change during peak season. 

How much does a Dubai Ferry ticket cost?

An option to purchase either a silver class ticket or a gold class ticket is available, depending on preference of comfort.

The main body of the ferry from the back is designated for silver-class ticket holders, while 14 more comfortable seats towards the front are for the gold-class ticket holders only. Both class ticket holders also have access to the open deck at the back of the ferry, giving unprecedented views of the city.

One-way ticket prices are as follows:

There is also a family ticket bundle available as follows:

Children’s pricing on Dubai Ferry

For one way trips, children aged five years or younger can travel for free, while children aged 6-12 pay half price. For the round trips, children aged 2 and under can travel for free, and those aged 2-10 pay half price.

How can I buy tickets for Dubai Ferry?

There are ticket booths located at each of the Ferry terminals, adjacent to the ferry departure points, from where you can buy your tickets. It is advisable to arrive well in advance, specially during peak timings, as the queues at the ticket booths can be long.

You can also book some category tickets a month in advance. For Dubai Ferry booking, please contact the official RTA phone number – 8009090

More Frequently Asked Questions about the Dubai Ferry

More Dubai water options

Compared to many sightseeing tours, the Dubai Ferry is actually amazingly good value! If you’re looking for a different view of Dubai though, check out these sightseeing options in Dubai. ($10USD = 36.70 AED)

Take me back to Dubai Essential Planning Information

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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A Dubai Dhow cruise experience is increasingly becoming a must for all tourists, where you get to enjoy the fascinating skyline of the city while being treated to a memorable dining experience.

What is a ‘Dhow’?

A ‘Dhow’ is an integral part of Arab culture, dating back to a time before the city was an economical and a tourist hub. A ‘Dhow’ is a traditional Arabic sailing vessel made with wooden planks, used for trading, fishing and pearl diving.

With trading and other marine activities now taking place on larger boats and ships, these Dhows no longer serve their original purpose and have since been renovated into floating restaurants.

Restaurants that display the hospitality of the city, with breath-taking views of the skyline, international buffet dinners and enchanting local entertainment.

Choosing a Dhow Cruise in Dubai

Until a few years ago, Dubai Creek was the only location in Dubai to catch a Dhow cruise, giving views of ‘Old Dubai’, the smaller abra boats, and local souqs. Bordering Bur Dubai and Deira, it is here, along this natural harbour where Dubai’s history began with trading routes developing before the discovery of oil.

A Dhow cruise at Dubai Creek offers a glimpse of the expansion that took place in Dubai and where tourists feel like they have stepped into a bygone era.

Now, there’s also the option to cruise around some of the modern neighbourhoods of Dubai. In an extension to Dubai Creek, you can now sail past Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Canal. Punctuated with an illuminated man-made waterfall from Sheikh Zayed Bridge at Al Habtoor City (home to stage show La Perle), the water is occasionally paused as Dhow boats pass beneath throughout the evening.

Dubai Marina is your other modern Dubai cruising option. Built with immaculate planning, this neighbourhood is dotted with soaring buildings, cafes and walkway promenades, along the man-made water canal.  The Dhow Cruise at Dubai Marina offers views of the Dubai Marina itself, the Palm Jumeirah Island and the skyscrapers of modern Dubai.

Also viewable is Dubai’s newest iconic project – Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel.

Timing your Dhow cruise You can either choose to go for a daytime or evening cruise. During the day, dhow cruises operate more as sightseeing tours, while the focus shifts to luxury dinners and entertainment as the sun starts to set over the horizon.

The evening dhow cruises shower guests with hospitality, complete with hearty buffet service, traditional hot drinks, live music and cultural shows.

What to expect on a Dubai Dhow cruise

A Dhow cruise is not just a boat ride along the canals of Dubai. It is an experience to view the city from a different perspective and a memory you will cherish for a lifetime. As a sightseeing tourist, nothing beats a traditional dhow with its large deck windows and open-air upper decks for enjoying unparalleled views of the city. Here’s what you can expect:

Magnificent views

Dubai Creek is also known as the “heart of the old city”, and it is here where you will feel like you have stepped back in time. It is a perfectly preserved snapshot of Dubai’s amazing contrast between the old, the traditional heritage houses, wind towers and minarets mixed up between the new, the modern development and tall high-rises.

Admire the glittering lights of Old Dubai as you relax on the cruise from Dubai Creek, sailing along the naturally existing waterway.

In contrast, the cruise from Dubai Marina offers a different, yet equally enchanting view of the ever-changing city. It’s a journey through modern Dubai, allowing your gaze to follow contemporary architectural marvels, some of Dubai’s iconic buildings making up the modern skyline and the buzzing atmosphere of city dwellers. The promenade on either side of the waterway is busy with couples and young families, cafes and date palm trees which light up in the evening.

Selected dhow cruises also offer commentary in English to learn more fascinating information about the city.

Scrumptious Buffet

Food is part of experiencing a city’s culture, and the dhow cruises do not disappoint when it comes to what they serve their guests. Almost all dhow cruises serve a hearty international buffet, with unlimited soft drinks, tea, coffee, and water. The buffet also includes traditional local delicacies and caters to vegetarians too. Be sure to try “Kahweh”, the local Arabian coffee, usually served to guests in the Bedouin tradition.

A few of the licensed dhow cruises also serve alcoholic drinks on the deck at an extra charge (though this can often explain the price differential between dinner cruise packages if they are offering this all-inclusive).

Onboard entertainment

While almost all Dhow cruises have live music playing in the background as your cruise on the canals of the city, a lot of them also have a few talented performers on board. Performances that include beautiful women belly dancers showing you their traditional Middle-eastern moves, or the folkloric dance known as Tanoura, performed by men in their creative costumes.

All Dhow cruises also include on-board separate toilets for men and women.

Suggested Dubai Dhow cruises to try

We recommend Dhow cruises booked through reputable online ticketing agents such as Get Your Guide or Viator, where cancellation-free options can be selected – critical to consider in these uncertain times.

1. Evening Dinner Cruise at Dubai Creek: Sail aboard a traditional dhow cruise and dine under the stars as you take in the dazzling lights of Dubai’s traditional souqs. Enjoy scrumptious buffet meals, while being entertained with onboard performances, such as the Tanora dance show.

• Evening Dinner Cruise at Dubai Marina: Experience world-famous landmarks of Dubai Marina the views of JBR from the man-made canal, as you take the 2-hour cruise, complete with a lavish buffet dinner and entertainment show on board. Watch people having a leisurely stroll along the promenade or having coffee at one of the quaint cafes fringing the shores.

• Daytime Sightseeing tour at Dubai Marina: Marvel at the unique buildings of Dubai, learn fascinating information about the city and take lots of photo opportunities at the day time tour of Dubai Marina. There are plentiful traditional Dhow cruise options through to modern luxury yachts.

Some other interesting Dhow cruises to try:

Pirates of Arabia Cruise: This is an authentic Arab experience aboard Dubai’s resident ‘Black Pearl’ with a touch of pirate spunk. It is a guided tour that departs from Dubai Creek Harbour, offering a 40 minute ride to take in Dubai’s beautiful sky-line made of its iconic buildings.

Musandam Khasab or Dibba Dhow Cruise: This full-day cruise trip takes you to the idyllic Musandam Peninsula, away from the bustling city life of Dubai. Surrounded by the views of rocky mountain peaks, hidden coves and sea-blue waters, relax on board with a buffet lunch and unlimited soft drinks, go for a snorkel and swim, and look out for dolphins.

Frequently asked questions about Dubai Dhow Cruises

Whether it’s old or modern Dubai, a Dhow cruise is undoubtedly a memorable part of your Dubai experience you won’t want to miss on your Dubai itinerary.

Take me back to the Best Dubai attractions

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

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What is a Dubai Abra?

Abra comes from the Arabic verb “Abara” which means crossing. At it’s simplest, an abra is a small water craft that takes passengers across water.

In Dubai, abra are still used to this day and are one of the city’s most frequented modes of transport for crossing the Dubai Creek. Although there are many more modern craft now available and integrated as part of the Dubai public transport system, you can still catch a traditional wooden abra across the Dubai creek as many have done for decades in the past.

Is abra the same thing as a dhow?

No. Although both are water craft, there is a difference in the size, design and purpose of an abra and a dhow. Abra are designed for people crossing water, with a simple wooden bench to sit on. A traditional dhow – although coming in many shapes and sizes – is a larger boat designed to carry goods. Dhow do also operate in Dubai as tourist cruise vessels – more on them below!

Different types of abra that operate in Dubai

Today, there are four different types of Abra you will find operating in different parts of the city.:

Motorised Traditional Abra

Half-boat, half-raft, the traditional abra with a small motor and two wooden benches operates two routes that cross from one bank of Dubai Creek to the other:

• Route CR1: Bur Dubai Abra Station to Deira Old Souk Abra Station (5am to midnight) – 5 minutes
• Route CR2: Dubai Old Souq Station to Al Sabkha Abra Station (24-hours) – 7 minutes

Cost for a traditional abra

A single Dubai Creek crossing is only 1 AED per person, payable to your driver.

Nol Card on Dubai Abra

You will not need a Nol Card for Dubai abra, have some loose coins this is all you need to enjoy. (NB, you will need a Nol Card though if you’re connecting by bus or Metro).

Petrol Heritage Abra

Alternatively, there’s another class of Abra operating several routes across the creek in what’s described as Petrol Heritage Abra. They still cost only 2AED and offer an open-air experience for up to 20 passengers, slightly larger and more comfortable than the traditional abra.

You can catch Petrol Heritage Abra from the same abra stations listed above, and additionally, there are stops at Al Fahidi and Al Seef on the western bank of the creek, and Baniyas on the eastern side. (Routes CR3, CR5 & CR6).

You are paying your abra driver separately in cash each time, so you can easily mix and match your routes each time you want to cross the creek.

Petrol Heritage Canal – Dubai Water Canal

This is a separate, man-made waterway that runs from Downtown Dubai to the Gulf. A modern, petrol operated abra passes beneath the Dubai Canal Waterfall before making a circular loop of the creek:

• Alight the TR6 route at Sheikh Zayed Road Station
• The trip takes around 45 minutes
• Cost is 25AED per person (Children under 3 are free)
• Operating from 4:00 PM to 11.30 PM daily
• You can also privately charter for your group from 300 AED per hour.

Air Conditioned Abra

For a more luxurious air-conditioned abra experience, you can travel between Al Jaddaf Marine Station to Dubai Festival City (Route BM2) for just 2 AED one way.

Where can I ride an abra in Dubai?

There are several different points you can catch an authorized RTA abra from in Dubai, depending on what part of the city you would like to see, and how much you would like to pay

• The traditional motorised abra only operate across Dubai Creek – 1 AED
• Petrol abra run on Dubai Canal – 25AED
• Dubai Water Buses in Dubai Marina are being replaced with modern air-conditioned abra. You can learn more about Dubai Marina water bus services here.

As tourists delight in this modern take on traditional transportation, there are several other places in the city you can also catch an abra. These electric and eco-friendly abra cost more but can be found in prime tourist locations across the city and still deliver a quite authentic experience.

Abra rides at the Dubai Fountain

A traditional-looking abra with a modern twist, these abra are fitted with a much quieter electric motor. You can find these operating on the Burj Lake beneath the Burj Khalifa to watch the nightly Dubai Fountain show. For a front row seat you should expect to pay around 70AED per person for 25 minutes, starting from 5:45 PM nightly – check current pricing and advance book tickets here.

You can learn more about different water craft that can be hired on Burj Lake here.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Offering possibly one of the prettiest backdrops in the city, there are electric abra that operate on the serene water ways of Souk Madinat Jumeirah., and provide a backdrop of Burj Al Arab.

The Souk Abra Station is located near the Trattoria Toscana restaurant. The Abra tour timings are:

• Winter: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm daily and Summer: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm daily
• Each tour departs every 20 minutes and lasts for 20 minutes. 

The Abra Tour ticket prices (book at the venue):

• Full Abra Tour: AED 100 per adult and AED 50 per child
• Burj View Abra Tour: AED 50 per adult and AED 50 per child
• Private Abra Tour: AED 850

You can learn more about the Souk Madinat abra rides here.

Global Village Abra

The final option to consider during the winter months only is an electric abra ride through Global Village. This seasonal extravaganza runs broadly from late October to early April each year. The eco-friendly abra take passengers through the man-made canal within the Global Village grounds with the journey lasting 12-15 minutes. The price for this abra ride is 52.50 AED.

You can learn more about visiting Global Village here.

Other water transport options in Dubai

There are both public and private water transport options for seeing the city in new and interesting ways, and often at a fraction of the cost of catching a taxi with better views! Why not also check out:

• Dubai Ferry
• Dubai Water Taxi
• Dubai Dhow Cruises

You’ll find our complete guide to Dubai Public Transport and how all the different systems integrate over here.

Dubai City Cruises

If the abra or ferry routes don’t suit, or you are seeking more of a dining and leisure experience along with your sightseeing then check out the great selection of boat cruises available from different boarding points across the city.

City sightseeing and cruises on Dubai Creek:

City sightseeing and cruises from Dubai Marina

More extreme water tours in Dubai

Is it worth catching a Dubai abra?

Every tourist to Dubai should try the traditional Dubai abra at least once – even in the peak of summer! It’s a true taste of what traditional Dubai is about, incredibly affordable and a fabulous, authentic experience.

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

• Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai, a handy guide on what to pack and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws and customs to be aware of.

• Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai.

• Pick up a Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions

• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance!!!

• Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai, or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to the best Dubai Attractions

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

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Find yourself wandering through the labyrinths of this sand hued luxury mall, against the backdrop of the iconic Burj Al Arab, as you take in the fragrance of Oudh (oil-based Arabic fragrances) from the perfume stores, taste the local delicacies and so much more.

What is Souk Madinat?

If there’s a mall that stands out best from all the other grand malls in Dubai, it is Souk Madinat Jumeirah offering an immersive cultural experience that’s so much more than just a marketplace.

Located in Jumeirah, Souk Madinat Jumeirah captures the traditional local Arabian townhouses with its earth-toned walls, wooden structured ceilings and ornate lanterns. And yet, this old goes on to meet the modern in the form of luxury fashion brands, internationally renowned restaurants and vibrant bars. It’s at this outdoor mall that you get glimpses of Dubai’s rich cultural heritage, present at every corner.

Add to it the palm-fringed waterways with Abra boats and mosaic-tiled fountains, while looking at the iconic Burj Al Arab in the distance, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is one destination that looks just as magical in the day, as at night.

Top Things to do at Souk Madinat Jumeirah:

1. Shopping

The name ‘souk’ translates to bazaar and this unique Arabian-inspired shopping destination is characteristic of traditional souks of the Arab world. It is easy for you to lose track of time in the labyrinth of shops selling Persian carpets, high-quality Arabic spices, Turkish pottery and Arabic Oudh. The place offers homegrown boutique brands, souvenir gift shops and luxury fashion.

Most of the shops are located on either side of the narrow alleyways, however, your need for retail therapy will also find yourself stopping at some of the outdoor stalls and pop-up shops for some interesting trinkets and finds.

If you haven’t experienced what shopping at the traditional bazaars feels like, Souk Madinat Jumeirah will surely be a worthwhile experience for you to remember, offering Arabic charm at every turn.

You can learn more about all the souks in Dubai here.

2. Dining – restaurants in Madinat Jumeirah

Souk Madinat Jumeirah houses some award-winning restaurants of International cuisines from different corners of the globe. Restaurants that not only serve authentic flavours, but seamlessly blend into the venue’s atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a romantic dining setting or just a casual catchup with friends over drinks, here’s a quick list of some of the well-known restaurants at Souk Madinat Jumeirah:

• Al Makan, serving authentic flavoured local dishes situated in the heart of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, gives you the opportunity to dine with a front-row view of Burj Al Arab.
• Pierchic is another restaurant offering stunning views, an ‘over the water’ dining experience and is a must for sea-food lovers.
• Famous for pizzas, tiramisu and chalet-style outdoor seating, Trattoria Toscana stands out for its Mediterranean flavours and vibe.
• Dine at Trader’s Vic with a live music band in the background playing some of the grooviest Latin American music.
• The ever so popular The Meat Co. is well known for its excellent steaks, live entertainment and atmosphere.

You will also find restaurants at Souk Madinat Jumeirah that serve shisha and alcohol.

Get your caffeine fix by making a quick pit stop at the many cafes, while the children get to treat themselves to gelato from the ice cream parlours.

3. Take a boat ride – Souk Madinat Abra

One of the most recommended things and one to not be missed when visiting Souk Madinat Jumeirah is to take an Abra ride. These traditional looking Emirati boats go on to sail across the calm waterways, while you get to enjoy some exquisite views.

Don’t miss the opportunity to take Instagram worthy pictures against the backdrop of Burj Al Arab, learn interesting facts about the souk and the landmarks around.

Each Abra boat comfortably seats 10 people, but you can also book yourself an intimate Abra tour if seeking a picture-perfect view and an authentic Arabian experience. 

The Souk Abra Station is located near the Trattoria Toscana restaurant.

The Abra tour timings are:

• Winter: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm daily and Summer: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm daily

Each tour departs every 20 minutes and lasts for 20 minutes. 

The Abra Tour ticket prices are:

• Full Abra Tour- AED 100 per adult and AED 50 per child

• Burj View Abra Tour- AED 50 per adult and AED 50 per child

• Private Abra Tour- AED 850

No pre-bookings are required but during peak hours and in case of group bookings you need to reserve the tour in advance. PSST go really early on a weekday and you can book a group ride but almost certainly get it to yourself!!

4. Visit the Madinat Theatre

Located in the heart of Souk Madinat Jumeriah, the Madinat Theatre is a state-of-the-art venue bringing crowd-pleasing entertainment to life. Over the years, Madinat Theatres has been showcasing various performances from stand-up comedies, smash-hit Broadway musicals, Russian ballets, Christmas special skits and so much more, performed by some internationally known performers and production houses.

The beautifully draped theatre with its tiered seating has a 440 persons seating capacity. To book yourself a seat, you can either visit the Box Office or book it online at the theatre’s official website.

For more information on shows and ticket prices, please visit their website: www.madinattheatre.com , or call on 04-366-6546

5. Experience the night life

As much as Souk Madinat Jumeirah looks breathtakingly stunning during the day, it magically transforms after dawn. Beautiful garden lights decorate the exterior part of the mall, while traditional ornate lanterns on the wooden ceilings light up the narrow shopping alleys. Burj Al Arab with its glimmering lights looks magical, and during Christmas time the gardens transform into a festive winter wonderland.

If you enjoy partying late into the night, there are many nightclubs and lounges offering a vibrant and energetic night scene you will not find elsewhere.

Every Wednesday, between 6pm and 11pm, the ladies can avail free drinks across a variety of restaurants and bars participating in ‘Ladies’ Night’.  Participating venues on the ‘Souk It Up’ map such as Belgian Beer Cafe, Trattoria, The Noodle House, McGettigan’s or Perry & Blackwelder’s, allow the ladies three drinks tokens, some of which are part of amazing dining deals.

6. Turtle Conservation

One of the last thing’s you’d expect to see in this urban jungle is marine turtles, and yet at The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP) based at Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah is where rescue, rehabilitate and release back of native sea turtles into the wild takes place.

The Hawksbill turtle, native to Middleeast is listed as a critically endangered species and vulnerable to extinction. Since the beginning of 2004, these turtles have been brought in for conservation. The Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary at Jumeirah Al Naseem, close to Souk Madinat Jumeirah, allows the public to learn more about sea turtle biology, the rehabilitation and also allow turtle feeding.

Jumeirah Al Naseem’s Turtle Rehabilitation Lagoon is open to the public every day allowing you to get up close and personal with the cute turtles.  You also have the opportunity to join the feeding sessions scheduled at 11 am, every Wednesday for about 20 minutes. [On hold at present due to COVID]

Other Facilities at Souk Madinat Jumeirah:

Souk Madinat Jumeirah has facilities such as restrooms, baby changing rooms, free Wifi, prayer rooms and valet parking. The mall is also wheelchair accessible.

How to get to Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Located in the neighbourhood of Al Sufouh, and very close to Burj Al Arab, the Souk Madinat Jumeirah is an easily accessible mall, and very popular during the weekends.

If travelling by car, you need to head towards Jumeirah. Take the King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, in the Al Sufouh 1 district and follow signs to Souk Madinat Jumeirah. (Paid) Underground parking is available for visitors as well as valet parking.

If taking the public RTA bus, hop on bus 8, 81, F55A or X28 which stop a 10-minute walk away form Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

Taking the Dubai Metro is also an option, however, the nearest Metro station would be the Mall of Emirates. From here, you would have to take a 10-minute taxi ride to Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

Operating hours Souk Madinat Jumeirah

The shops at the Souk Madinat Jumeirah operate from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The restaurants stay open from 8:00 AM and 02:00 AM.

Nearby Attractions to Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Burj Al Arab

Built on a man-made island, this iconic luxury hotel, Burj Al Arab provides a 7-star luxury hotel experience, with opulent interiors, and fine dining at restaurants with breathtaking views and Michelin starred chefs. You can only get inside Burj Al Arab with a reservation – we share the cheapest way to get yourself inside!

Wild Wadi

Experience an unforgettable day with family and friends at Wild Wadi, Dubai’s wildest and wettest theme park. With multiple water slides and a temperature-controlled wave pool, you’ll be sure to have some wild aquatic adventure.

Check ticket pricing for a day at Wild Wadi

Where to stay near Souk Madinat Jumeirah

There are multiple Jumeirah hotels that are part of the Souk Madinat Jumeirah complex. These are some of Dubai’s most luxurious and exclusive hotels and villas in Dubai with an incredible setting, accessing the souk, the beach, and Wild Wadi water park.

• Jumeirah Al Naseem
• Jumeriah Al Qasr
• Jumeirah Mina A’Salam

If these hotels are out of budget, you could also consider hotels that are around and attached to Mall of the Emirates, just a short journey away from Souk Madinat Jumeirah (some even offer shuttle buses).

See all the nearby accommodation choices here.

More frequently asked questions about Souk Madinat Jumeirah

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