Deira district

The Deira district

An essential stop on the Dubai audio-guided tour, Deira is, with Bur Dubai on the other side of the creek, one of the oldest districts of the city. Far from the great skyscrapers, it keeps an authentic and very lively atmosphere.

The former centre of the city

Deira was long the centre of the city, when Dubai was only a small fishing village set around the creek. The merchants set out by boat to bring back goods from neighbouring countries. After the great expansion of the city, Deira is now only a small part of it, but remains one of the liveliest.

What to see

The district is made up of many traditional souks dedicated to clothing, perfumes, spices and gold. Very touristic, it also offers many restaurants where you can taste local and international specialities. Its commercial activity makes it a dynamic and essential district of old Dubai.

Practical information

The Deira district is on the north bank of Dubai Creek, reached by abra or metro. Freely accessible, it can be explored on foot along its souks and lively streets.

Why is Deira important ?

It is one of the oldest districts of Dubai, the former centre of the city in the days of the fishing village.

What is found in Deira ?

Many traditional souks, dedicated to clothing, perfumes, spices and gold.