At the heart of Bur Dubai, the textile souk, which is also called Old Souk, is the prettiest in the city, occupying an exquisitely restored traditional market, its long line of sand colored buildings shaded by finely arched wooden ceiling, blissfully cool even in hot days and illuminated by traditional Moorish hanging lights after dark.
Picture Courtesy: www.visitdubai.com
This once was the most famous market in the city although its commercial vitality has long gone – almost all shops have now been taken over by Indian traders thrashing sari cloth and blankets with assorted tourist tat. If one seeks for I love Dubai T-shirt, Burj Khalifa or camel, now is your chance.
Picture Courtesy: www.visitdubai.com
The souk’s main drag, dotted with further examples of traditional (albeit heavily restored) local architecture, including long wooden balconies, latticed windows and occasional wind tower is also worth exploring.
Picture Courtesy: www.visitdubai.com
It is located on the opposite side of the Dubai Creek, in the old trading centre from Deira. Discover a number of colorful fabrics in the textile souk. One can also skim through endless selection of raw silk, cotton and embroidered fabrics at this market. You can find the exact print and color you are looking for among the reels of cloth. Plus you can look for the sparkling sequins, buttons and lace.
Picture Courtesy: www.filmdubai.gov.ae
To get there, take a traditional abra water taxi across the Creek. The ride costs only a dirham and let you experience the historic neighborhood from the water. The best time to visit it is early in the morning or during evening and do not forget to barter. Afterwards treat yourself to an Arabic delicacy at the bay al wakeel restaurant situated next to abra station.