Modern Dubai is a glittering, ultra-modern city that reflects very little about its' humble and modest beginnings as a trade port on the other side of the Dubai Creek. The heritage of Dubai has been entrusted to a few restored forts and museums that one can visit to learn about ancient Arabic culture and heritage. However, the age-old custom of haggling is alive and well at the Deira Souk. Almost anything is available at this seething maze of shops, people and merchandise and almost everything is open to negotiation.
Water Taxis
By far the quickest and most convenient way to get to the souk is via one of the traditional water taxis that operate back and forth across the Dubai Creek, between designated taxi ranks. The abra is a small wooden boat with a central bench for passengers and an overhead canopy. A trip across the Creek costs one dirham and passengers are treated to a close up view of the huge trading dhows and their crew, waiting to be relieved of their cargo.
The Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai have recently introduced new, air conditioned motor boats that will operate a water taxi service along the Creek, stopping off at a number of tourist destinations. According to Ramola Talwar Badam in the 22 July, 2010 issue of The National, the cost of a short trip in the taxi will cost a total of Dh50 which is shared amongst the passengers.
Souks of Deira
The atmosphere of the souk is alive and vibrant with the noise and bustle of people going about their business of buying or selling. Brightly coloured merchadise spills out of shop doorways and potential customers are lured with good prices and the best choices.
Very popular and plentiful items are pashmina's and scarves and other middle eastern traditional clothing. Colourful cushion covers and printed Arabic tablecloths are also in abundance. The antique dealers lend to the feeling of going back in time as they display a treasure trove of ancient heritage memorabilia, some authentic, some copied. Emiratis are well known for their penchant for perfume and there are plenty of sampling opportunties at the souk.
Walking through the narrow corridors and streets, one is bound to be approached by agents, soliciting customers for copies of brand-name watches and handbags. These shops are out of sight and behind closed doors and prices are very negotiable.
The serious bargaining happens over more expensive items and a cup of tea or Arabic coffee. For the casual tourist buying mementoes and smaller items, haggling can begin when the buyer is prepared to purchase a few items.
Traditional Shopping in Dubai
A visit to the Deira Souk is recommended as a fascinating shopping experience. It is a delightful contrast to the world famous multi-story shopping malls on the other side of the Creek and a memorable glimpse into a rich, traditional Dubai heritage.
Water Taxis
By far the quickest and most convenient way to get to the souk is via one of the traditional water taxis that operate back and forth across the Dubai Creek, between designated taxi ranks. The abra is a small wooden boat with a central bench for passengers and an overhead canopy. A trip across the Creek costs one dirham and passengers are treated to a close up view of the huge trading dhows and their crew, waiting to be relieved of their cargo.
The Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai have recently introduced new, air conditioned motor boats that will operate a water taxi service along the Creek, stopping off at a number of tourist destinations. According to Ramola Talwar Badam in the 22 July, 2010 issue of The National, the cost of a short trip in the taxi will cost a total of Dh50 which is shared amongst the passengers.
Souks of Deira
The atmosphere of the souk is alive and vibrant with the noise and bustle of people going about their business of buying or selling. Brightly coloured merchadise spills out of shop doorways and potential customers are lured with good prices and the best choices.
Very popular and plentiful items are pashmina's and scarves and other middle eastern traditional clothing. Colourful cushion covers and printed Arabic tablecloths are also in abundance. The antique dealers lend to the feeling of going back in time as they display a treasure trove of ancient heritage memorabilia, some authentic, some copied. Emiratis are well known for their penchant for perfume and there are plenty of sampling opportunties at the souk.
Walking through the narrow corridors and streets, one is bound to be approached by agents, soliciting customers for copies of brand-name watches and handbags. These shops are out of sight and behind closed doors and prices are very negotiable.
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The serious bargaining happens over more expensive items and a cup of tea or Arabic coffee. For the casual tourist buying mementoes and smaller items, haggling can begin when the buyer is prepared to purchase a few items.
Traditional Shopping in Dubai
A visit to the Deira Souk is recommended as a fascinating shopping experience. It is a delightful contrast to the world famous multi-story shopping malls on the other side of the Creek and a memorable glimpse into a rich, traditional Dubai heritage.