Deira
Dubai's historic commercial heart, where traditional souks meet modern business districts. Deira offers an authentic glimpse into old Dubai with its gold, spice, and textile markets.
Area Overview
Popular Places
7 places to explore
Spice Souk
Traditional Arabian market selling exotic spices, herbs, and traditional remedies.
Perfume Souk
Traditional market specializing in Arabian perfumes, oud, and custom fragrances.
Al Ahmadiya School & Heritage House
Dubai's first school and adjacent heritage house showcasing traditional life
Deira Covered Souk
Atmospheric covered market with diverse shops and traditional ambiance
Dubai Creek Waterfront (Deira Side)
Historic waterfront promenade with dhow views and traditional ambiance
Baniyas Square
Historic trading hub and transport junction in the heart of Deira
Book Tours & Activities in Deira
Klook.comRestaurants
8 dining options
Ashiana by Vineet
Michelin-starred chef's contemporary Indian cuisine in elegant setting
Al Mansour Dhow
Traditional dhow cruise with buffet dinner along Dubai Creek
Aroos Damascus
Legendary Syrian restaurant famous for shawarma and grills since 1979
QD's
Iconic rooftop bar with stunning Creek views and international cuisine
Shabestan
Upscale Persian restaurant with authentic cuisine and elegant setting
Al Tawasol Restaurant
Authentic Yemeni restaurant known for mandi and traditional dishes
Cafes & Coffee
7 cafes to visit
Arabian Tea House
Traditional Emirati
Authentic Emirati cafe experience with traditional breakfast and karak chai
Starbucks Gold Souk
Coffee Chain
Popular coffee chain offering respite from souk shopping
Al Samadi Sweets
Arabic Sweets & cafe
Famous Lebanese sweets shop with cafe serving baklava and Arabic coffee
Costa Coffee Deira City Centre
Coffee Chain
British coffee chain in the mall with comfortable seating
Filli cafe Deira
Karak & Chai
Beloved local karak chain serving authentic chai and Indian snacks
Tim Hortons Deira City Centre
Canadian Coffee Chain
Canadian coffee and donut chain with reliable quality
Hotels & Stays
7 accommodation options
Hyatt Regency Dubai
5-Star Hotel
Landmark luxury hotel on the Creek with excellent facilities and golf course
Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek
5-Star Hotel
Historic waterfront hotel with stunning Creek views and heritage location
Hilton Dubai Creek
5-Star Hotel
Modern luxury hotel with stunning Creek views and Gordon Ramsay restaurant
Sheraton Deira Hotel
4-Star Hotel
Well-established hotel with excellent location near souks and metro
Shopping
6 shopping destinations
Gold Souk
Traditional market with hundreds of gold jewelry shops offering competitive prices and authentic Arabian gold designs.
Deira City Centre
Established shopping mall in Deira with diverse retail outlets, entertainment facilities, and family-friendly amenities.
Al Ghurair Centre
Dubai's first shopping mall, renovated with modern retail and entertainment
Naif Souk
Traditional market known for leather goods, footwear, and textiles
Deira Fish Market (Waterfront Market)
Modern fish market with fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and meat
Al Hamriya Shopping District
Popular electronics and general goods shopping area with competitive prices
Gyms & Fitness
3 fitness centers
Fitness First Deira City Centre
Full-service fitness club with pool and extensive facilities
- Swimming pool
- Group classes
- Personal training
GymNation Deira
Affordable 24/7 gym with modern equipment and flexible membership
- 24/7 access
- Modern equipment
- Ladies section
Oasis Health Club - Hyatt Regency
Premium health club with pool, tennis, and spa at Hyatt Regency
- Large pool
- Tennis courts
- Spa
Things to Do
5 activities
Gold Souk Shopping
Browse and bargain for gold jewelry at competitive prices
Spice Souk Exploration
Wander through aromatic lanes and learn about spices
Creek Dhow Cruise
Traditional wooden boat cruise with dinner on Dubai Creek
Al Mamzar Beach
Relax at the beach or enjoy BBQ facilities
Heritage Walking Tour
Explore historic Deira neighborhoods and souks
Getting Around
Transport options in Deira
Metro Access
Excellent connectivity via Red and Green Lines. Al Ras and Union stations serve the souks. Deira City Centre has its own station.
Bus Routes
Taxi
Good availability, especially near major landmarks and metro stations
Walkability
Very walkable between souks and heritage areas. Can get crowded in market areas.
Local Tips
Insider advice for Deira
Always bargain in the souks - initial prices are often 40-50% higher
Gold prices are regulated by weight, but making charges are negotiable
Visit souks in evening when weather is cooler and atmosphere livelier
Use Green Line metro to easily navigate between different souk areas
Exchange currency at Al Ansari Exchange for better rates than airports
Try local eateries in back streets for authentic and affordable meals