Hotels near Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek is the saltwater inlet that splits the city into Deira on the north bank and Bur Dubai on the south. Long before the skyscrapers, this waterway was the reason Dubai existed - pearl divers, fishermen, and traders from Iran, India, and East Africa all relied on the Creek for commerce. Today, wooden dhow boats still line the banks, and the abra water taxis that ferry passengers across cost just 1 AED (EUR 0.25) per crossing. The ride takes about five minutes and drops you between the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk on the Deira side.

Walking along the Bur Dubai side of the Creek takes you past the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (formerly Bastakiya), where restored wind-tower houses from the 1890s now host galleries and cafes. Evening dhow dinner cruises depart from the Creek and cost from 100 to 250 AED (EUR 25-62) depending on the operator and menu.

Pro Tip: Take the abra from Bur Dubai to Deira at sunset. The golden light on the water with dhows and minarets in the background is the most photogenic moment in Old Dubai, and it costs less than a bottle of water.