Landmark · Deira

Deira Old Souk Abra Station

4.5 · 317 reviews
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Deira Old Souk Abra Station is a key landmark in Dubai's historic Deira district, located on Baniyas Road near the Dubai Spice Souk. This station serves as a departure point for traditional wooden boats called abras, which have been used for centuries to cross Dubai Creek. The station itself is a bustling hub, with locals and tourists alike boarding abras to reach the opposite side, where the Gold Souk and other attractions await. The short ride across the creek offers stunning views of the city's skyline, blending old and new architecture. The station is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby spice and gold souks, which are famous for their vibrant atmosphere and wide variety of goods. The experience is authentic and affordable, giving visitors a taste of Dubai's maritime heritage. The area around the station is lively, with street vendors and small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. It's a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience traditional Dubai.

Don't miss

  • Take an abra ride across Dubai Creek for a few dirhams
  • Explore the nearby Dubai Spice Souk and Gold Souk
  • Photograph the contrast between traditional abras and modern skyscrapers
  • Watch the bustling activity of the creek and waterfront
  • Visit in the evening to see the creek lit up

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Deira Old Souk Abra Station

You can visit on your own (abra rides cost a few dirhams per person (pay cash onboard). no ticket needed for the station itself). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.

Good for

BusinessCouplesSolo travelFamilyFriends getaway

How travelers rate it

5 star
157
4 star
112
3 star
34
2 star
8
1 star
6

Know before you go

  • Abra rides run from early morning until late evening, but frequency may decrease after 10 PM.
  • Bring small change for the abra fare; it's very cheap.
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat if visiting during the day, as it can be very hot.
  • Keep your camera ready for great photo opportunities of the creek and skyline.

A bit of history

Dubai Creek has been the heart of the city's trade and fishing for centuries. Abras have been used as a primary mode of transport across the creek since the early 1900s. Deira Old Souk Abra Station is one of the oldest and busiest stations, serving as a gateway to the historic souks.

Common questions

How much does an abra ride cost?

The fare is very affordable, typically around 1-2 AED per person for a short crossing.

Where does the abra take me?

The abra crosses to the Bur Dubai side, near the Dubai Museum and Textile Souk.

Can I pay with a credit card?

No, abras accept only cash. Have small denominations ready.

Is the abra safe?

Yes, abras are a safe and common mode of transport, though life jackets are not always provided.

How long is the ride?

The crossing takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on the route.

Are there other abra stations nearby?

Yes, there are several stations along the creek, including Al Fahidi and Baniyas.

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