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Visit the oldest spice marketin Dubai, United Arab Emirates

#27of 81 things to doin Dubai

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It is one of the most popular markets in Dubai. The air here is saturated with the aromas of herbs and spices.
How to visit the oldest spice market in Dubai
There is still the old market of spices (Spice Souk) in the eastern part of the city. It has decreased substantially in recent decades. All because of the active building of new shopping centers.

If you are in Dubai, be sure to buy souvenirs in this market, as long as this place, saturated with the spirit of the last century, is not completely absorbed by modern Emirates.

Spice Souk in Dubai
Photo: Spice Souk in Dubai, © James Chan/Flickr

Now they are several trading rows with bags of spices and herbs, which are delivered daily from Iran, India and Pakistan. If you see how the dhows - Arab one-mast ships with a sail - go towards the market, - be sure, they brought something interesting.

Spice Souk in Dubai
Photo: Spice Souk in Dubai, © Alex Berger/Flickr

How to do?

1. The market is located in the Deira district at 85, Al Ras Street. You can get here by taxi, on metro (green line to Al Ras station) or take a traditional Arab boat to cross the Dubai Creek bay.

2. You will see the narrow rows of counters, cluttered with bags of saffron, frankincense, turmeric, ginger, black lemons, dried fruits, etc. It seems that you can find anything here - beautiful carpet, handmade souvenirs, hookahs and bakhoor .

Where to do?

#11Spice Souk in DubaiSpice Souk

The old Spice Souk is not yet touched by «the civilization» it keeps traditions and primordial appearance, but the number of shop counters here reduce every year.

Location: Deira district, D 85, Al Ras (just off Sikkat Al Khail Rd).
Open hours: the market is open seven days a week from 10:00 to 22:00, on Friday it opens at 16:00.

Tips and hints

People like to bargain here. If, in your opinion, the goods are too expensive, try to bring down the price to the desired one.

The spice market is adjacent to Gold Market (Gold Souk). Come here for decorations and dishes made of gold.

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Guest06 May 2025

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