The bustling Dubai Creek has been the lifeblood of locals for generations. It was the favoured site for early settlers, becoming the city’s first port and home to a thriving pearling industry. Today, it is still a lively spot, continuing to attract visitors year-round. For just AED1 (US$0.27), you can hop aboard one of the many traditional ferry boats, known as abras, to cross the creek that separates the Bur Dubai and Deira neighbourhoods. The journey is one of the most affordable and authentic experiences in the city. It also remains one of the most accessible Dubai attractions for visitors seeking a glimpse of the city’s heritage.

An abra, which means “to cross” in Arabic, runs every few minutes throughout the day between four stations along Dubai Creek. The first route goes from Deira Old Souk Abra Station (near the Spice Souk) to Bur Dubai Abra Station (west of the Textile Souk). The second, much busier route, runs continuously from Al Sabkha Abra Station (just southwest of Baniyas Square) to Dubai Old Souk Abra Station.

Ticket prices and booking information

Each abra holds about 20 passengers, with 150 boats working the two routes between Deira and Bur Dubai, starting around 6am every day. Every crossing on the now-motorised boats only takes about five minutes.

Simply buy a ticket from the abra driver; a one-way trip across the creek on a traditional abra costs AED1 per person, or AED2 if you opt for the air-conditioned option. You can also hire an abra for a private trip along the creek, at a cost of AED120 per hour. You can arrange this at any abra station without any notice, or you can contact the RTA for more information and to book in advance.

Explore old and new Dubai

Riders usually sit on a central wooden bench for the short journey. Take a trip in the mornings to observe local merchants dropping anchor for trade, wooden dhow boats parked in a colourful array and the occasional ship sailing past. Admire spectacular views of old Dubai including traditional houses, wind towers and minarets.

These sights are interspersed with signs of the city’s evolution, featuring landmarks like the Deira Twin Towers plus hotels and commercial buildings in glass facades gleaming against the water.

Nearby hotels and restaurants

Both Bur Dubai and Deira have a variety of hotels and restaurants that are perfect for any kind of holiday. In Bur Dubai, the likes of Arabian Boutique Hotel, XVA Art Hotel and Al Seef Heritage Hotel offer a truly authentic Emirati experience.

In Deira, hotels for every budget can be found – from Hyatt Place Dubai Baniyas Square through to Radisson Blu Dubai Deira Creek. The restaurants within these hotels, like Arabian Tea House, Doors Freestyle Grill and Al Fanar Seafood Market, are sure to satisfy your palate.

Nearby attractions

Alighting on the banks of Bur Dubai, visitors have plenty of heritage and cultural sights to explore. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a perfect spot to explore on foot, walking amid narrow sikkas (alleys) and sand-coloured buildings with ancient wind towers. Right next to it is Al Seef, a waterfront promenade dotted with stores, art galleries, restaurants and cafes, plus the must-see Museum of Illusions.

On the Deira side, souks can be easily found across the winding streets, including the Spice Souk and the world-famous Gold Souk. Put your bargaining skills to the test as you amble through the covered markets and discover fabulous wares.

How to get there

You can get to the either side of the abra crossing using the following public transportation options:

Metro: Alight at Sharaf DG or Al Ghubaiba metro stations on the Green line, and walk for approximately 10 minutes to the closest abra station.

Bus: Bus routes that have a stop within walking distance of the Bur Dubai side include 29, C10 and 33. Bus routes on the Deira side include C09 or C28.

Please visit rta.ae for detailed public transportation schedules.

You can also get a preview of your entire trip on Google Maps if you prefer to drive.

Ticket prices and booking information

Explore old and new Dubai

Nearby hotels and restaurants

Nearby attractions

How to get there

Spend a day along the Creek immersing yourself in the historic side of Dubai, or experience more of the city from the water.

Abra Creek Crossing

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