Deira

Dubai’s trading past lingers on in Deira. Together with Bur Dubai, Karama and Satwa, Deira is part of an area that’s affectionately known as ‘Old Dubai’ among locals. It’s a nod to the fact that these are some of the most storied quarters of the city, each with its own identity.

Here you’ll find narrow lanes with the city’s ancient gold and spice souks filled with wares brought in by the waterways of Dubai Creek. For centuries, merchants would dock their boats by its banks, bringing in perfume, spices, coffee and gold from far away countries to trade.

Today, the creek is as active as ever, with modern yachts and Arabian dhows gliding side-by-side at busy wharfs. The waters are also busy with smaller motorised wooden vessels known as abras, which whisk passengers between Deira and Bur Dubai for just AED2.

There are few experiences as atmospheric as strolling the waterfront at sunset, the sound of the adhan (call to prayer) from nearby mosques mingling with the cry of seagulls and the puttering of boat engines.

If you’re hungry for some traditional cuisine, Deira is known for inexpensive and tasty ethnic restaurants, offering flavours from around the world. Dip into everything from authentic Levantine fare to South Asian treats.

Follow in the footsteps of the late chef Anthony Bourdain to try the delicious rice and lamb dish, aishu laham, at Bait Al Mandi restaurant on Al Muraqqabat road, or sample creamy Japanese desserts at Yakitate in Al Ghurair Centre, one of the oldest shopping centres in the city.

Getting there: Dubai Metro users can alight at Union station for the dhow wharfage, Al Ras station for the Gold Souk and Al Rigga station to explore eateries.