Dubai Creek Canal

Dubai Creek is a sea inlet about 14 km long where Dubai began. It runs through almost the whole old city, right along the border between two districts, Bur Dubai and Deira.

The city spreads out on both banks, and there are many ways to see it from the water, from a crossing by boat for a token fare to dinner on a dhow.

What to see

Abra crossing. Traditional motor boats called abras ferry passengers from one bank to the other — the cheapest and most atmospheric way to ride on the Creek. The most popular route links Bur Dubai Abra Station and Deira Old Souk Abra Station. You can also hire a whole abra with its "driver".

Old districts on the banks. On the Bur Dubai side are the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Al Seef and Al Shindagha; on the Deira side, the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk.

Life on the Creek. By day you see the city at work, with goods being loaded onto wooden dhows; in the evening the lights come on and people stroll and dine along the waterfront.

How to get there

The metro is convenient: on the Bur Dubai side, Al Ghubaiba and Sharaf DG stations; on the Deira side, Al Ras and Baniyas Square. The abra stations are a few minutes' walk away.

Tips before you go

Abras take cash only — not cards or Nol — so carry small change.

The best time is sunset. For a longer trip on the water there is an hour-long Dubai Creek dhow sightseeing cruise.