Al Seef
Points of Interest & LandmarksScenic Walking Areas
10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
About
Along Dubai Creek’s shoreline is Al Seef, a bustling waterfront promenade where old meets new. It has two zones: an old-world heritage area and a modern section lined with malls, hotels, and restaurants. Here, you can learn about the Gulf’s beginnings as a famous pearl diving port, explore the open-air floating market and 1950s-style souk, get a henna tattoo, and purchase handicrafts along the sikkas (alleyways). You can even hop aboard a romantic dhow boat and take in the fantastic views on a dinner cruise. Al Seef is great to visit together with the nearby Al Fahidi neighborhood on a walking tour. – Tripadvisor
Duration: 2-3 hours
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Top ways to experience Al Seef
The area
Neighbourhood: Umm Hurair
How to get there
  • BurJuman • 10 min walk
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See what travellers are saying
  • corme2
    441 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Al Seef, well worth a visit
    Nice visit to Al Seef, recommended for seeing the old style buildings and shopping for bargains. Many places for food and drink, really good value. Great to stroll down the Promenade too and see a different side to Dubai
    Hi Corme2, thank you for the positive feedback! We're always happy to hear good things from our guests. Al Seef Team
    Written 6 December 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2023
    Travelled on business
    Written 5 December 2023
  • NICHOLAS T
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates10,128 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Lovely development
    This is an impressive development on the creek. The development comprises an ‘old’ dude and ‘new’ side. The old side captures well the traditional building and streets of a classical Middle Eastern city. There are a large number of restaurants and shops, a museum of illusions and a couple of hotels. The whole area runs alongside the creek which makes further a beautiful backdrop.
    Hi Nicholas, thank you for the positive feedback! We're always happy to hear good things from our guests. Al Seef Team
    Written 11 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled solo
    Written 10 February 2024
  • david p
    11 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Casablanca
    Hotel is in a great location. I feel like I'm in Morocco n in a Indiana Jones movie. Plenty of shop n cafes right below our room. Room are small n have no electrical plus to charge phone from US ..so bring adapters..or ask hotel to bring you one..
    Greetings from Al Seef! Thank you for your review, G7758. If there's anything we can do to improve, please let us know how we can get in touch:800-738245. We look forward to seeing you again soon. Al Seef Team
    Written 27 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 26 February 2024
  • Neehamb
    Toronto, Canada1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mirzam at Al Seef
    MIRZAM Chocolate is must visit at Al Seef! Nestled in the vibrant streets of Al Seef, we stumbled upon this hidden gem of a chocolate store. During our visit, we had the pleasure of meeting the person behind the counter: Waseem, who exuded kindness and warmth. He patiently guided us through the array of chocolates, generously offering testers and sharing his expertise. We left with bags full of treats and hearts full of gratitude only because of him. Whether you’re a chocolate aficionado or simply seeking a sweet escape, this charming spot promises to satisfy your cravings and leave you with a smile. Thank you Waseem!
    Hi Neehamb, thank you for the positive feedback! We're always happy to hear good things from our guests. Al Seef Team
    Written 3 March 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 2 March 2024
  • TannyHabib
    Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates37 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A Mixture of old & new Dubai
    We are regular visitors to Al Seef when the weather cools down in the UAE. The redevelopment of the old Bur Dubai Creekside by Meraas is quite fantastic in my opinion. Inspired by the old Dubai architecture with sand stone and wind towers, they have changed the whole look & feel of this area. Ample parking in the lower levels, loads of eating joints of all types and the views across the creek are just fantastic! Definitely visit during the early evenings to around sunset time to get the best experience and experience Al Seef at night.
    Hi TannyHabib, thank you for your kind words! We are glad you were happy with our service. Al Seef Team
    Written 21 March 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited November 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 20 March 2024
  • BradHurley
    108 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Reproduction of how things used to be
    I do enjoy historical city centers, but this felt inauthentic to me. This entire area was built "in the style of" historical Dubai, and I did enjoy the scenery and the change of pace from the rest of Dubai. But I couldn't help but feeling that this was simply a veneer over an outdoor shopping mall. I stayed at the Al Seef hotel, which sprawls over a wide area, and I couldn't help but think that the idea was to locate the rooms so that you'd have to walk past lots of shops and spend lots of money.
    Hi BradHurley, thank you for your feedback. We appreciate you taking the time to share it with us, it really helps us improve our business. Al Seef Team
    Written 13 May 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited May 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 13 May 2024
  • Sabiha A
    Johannesburg, South Africa4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Loved it
    Al Seef and Al Fahidi are absolutely beautiful. Loved the alley ways in Al Fahidi. A must see on your visit to Dubai. Took an abra from Al Fahidi to the Gold Souk and it was a lovely experiece
    Thanks for the great review, 574Sabihaa. It was a pleasure serving you as a guest. Al Seef Team
    Written 28 May 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited May 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 28 May 2024
  • Muhammad
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates72 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Must Visit Place
    An evening in the fifteenth century. Dubai, a symbol of innovation and human progress, is filled with modern marvels. Yet, amidst this contemporary landscape, Al Seef Street in the Al Fahidi neighbourhood offers a journey back to old Arabia. Stretching along the banks of Dubai Creek for one and a half kilometres, the street is divided into two parts. One side reflects modern life, with stylish restaurants and contemporary buildings, while the other side beautifully captures traditional Arabic culture and architecture. As you walk between these sections, it feels like stepping back four hundred years in time. Here, you'll find buildings made of sand, lime, and stone, narrow mud-brick streets, and weathered wooden doors. Palm bark canopies shade the entrances to homes, ancient fishing nets hang nearby, and the soft glow of lanterns enhances the historic atmosphere. Among these settings, you’ll also discover various restaurants, including a Starbucks Cafe, designed in the traditional style. I spend my evening here whenever I get time, it is one of my favorite places in Dubai.
    Hello Valadislav, thank you for taking the time to leave this amazing review. Our team will be thrilled to read it. Al Seef Team
    Written 3 September 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited September 2024
    Travelled with friends
    Written 1 September 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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Escape To Find Peace
United Arab Emirates677 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2021
2 dhs abra ride is just great! Since the amount is less, the time is less too. It will end before you know. It is better to visit the place at night but the birds and sunlight gives another vibe. Very few shops are open here. Have few options to dine and even do some shopping (expensive though) Walk towards both ends and you will find some corners to click picks and a small portion of art gallery displayed Apart from boat, not much options for kids other than buy those balloons from there. Washrooms are available. Few seating areas besides the dining area are there.
Written 3 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Yogesh S
Dubai, United Arab Emirates22 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020
I have been here in this country for 23 yrs now. The way Dubai have devloped it has crosssed its own boubdries in creating the Dubai what its today, One of the pure example is Al Seef. This has been pure mixtrue of What was Dubai on olden days and which has been devloped just near the Rulers court and on the other hand its the vibrant modern Dubai. The old Dubai creek is now Al Seef from where you can also take the Abra ride to Deira with just AED:2 with normal frequency to/from Deira to BUr Dubai. Where is nice ligting some excellent wahter stands to view Dubai's silver line. Number of chocies for Food with any enthecity can enjoy. Free Wifi on the spot. And excellent cleanliness. Must watch place to go with Family.
Written 17 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Robert O
Rotterdam, The Netherlands5,752 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2022
Since 2017, about 2 km of shops, restaurants and cafés on the south side of Dubai creek, east of Bur Dubai souk, is Al Seef. It is made to look authentic, but it is obviously not, as the houses are made of concrete and only the plaster is put on to make it look old. Some wind catchers as well are not real, but used as ornamentation. Go to Yazd in Iran to see the real thing.

On the bright side, Al Seef is more spacious than the traditional souk, where often you can hardly stand still without blocking the way. Also fewer people are around as price levels are high, compared to nearby Meena bazaar where locals eat and shop.

Anyway if you want another shopping experience than a glitzy mall downtown do go and visit. I used the area for my daily walks as there is shade and at least you can move.
Written 10 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Robert O, thank you for your feedback. If there's anything we can do to help, please let us know how we can contact you: fdbck.me/i/5542450 Al Seef Team
Written 11 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

gwen m
Fremont, CA111 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2020
We discovered this area of Dubai at the end of out vacation which was a pity. We went there on our last night for dinner. Wish we had seen it during the day. The buildings are really beautiful and very old. Many house restaurants and most are over looking the creek. However, we did enjoy our meal at an Egyptian restaurant and it was very relaxing watching the many boats ply up and down. This are is a must for anyone visiting Dubai..
Written 16 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Greetings from Al Seef! Thank you for your review, gwen m. We look forward to seeing you again soon. Al Seef Team
Written 14 April 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Adnan-Almuslem
Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia1,370 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020 • Couples
Al Seef area is a charming destination and very beautiful and enjoyable in the lovely Dubai city, highlighting the culture and heritage of the emirate. The area is located near the iconic Creek in Dubai’s heritage district, reflecting a beautiful traditions combine with modern designs showcasing an inspiring partnership between Dubai’s proud past and bright future.

The area has many leisure, dining options and cafes that suits different budgets. The area also hosts many activities that adds to the importance of the area as one of the famous tourist destination. A must to visit area and it is highly recommended.
Written 28 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Kunal V
Noida, India1,017 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2019
Al Seef Marina by Meeras, is a beautifully made place. it gives a feel of Old Dubai (like in old times) and is Artificially made. The Creekside is a treat to watch. There are plenty restaurants and shops to have a good time. Apart from this, there are Cruise dinners which can be Bargained upto 30-40% cost. The dinner on the Cruise isn't that nice, but the view is great.
Written 1 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

bougainville30a
London, UK272 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
If you ever wondered what Old Dubai might look like years ago, that's the right place to start, esp in the late afternoon / evening hours.
This area was created by the Creek with nice vistas and pleasant walking routes. Apart from some traditional architecture incl. wind towers, there are many interesting boutique hotels, souvenir stores, cafes and bars.
You can sit, watch and relax in peace, unlike other places situated nearby (e.g. Old Souk).
Even though the entire place was built purely for tourists, I guess, it was planned well with all necessary details that make the right kind of atmosphere.
No kitsch, tacky bits and cheap vendors lurking around, which was great.
Wandering around the streets gave us some fresh perspective on what this city (or parts of it) looked like in the past.
For those who wish to carry on and discover more, Al Fahidi historical neighborhood is another good example of local folklore and heritage...
Written 20 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi bougainville30a, thank you for the positive feedback! We're always happy to hear good things from our guests. Al Seef Team
Written 21 June 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

hawksbill2
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia51 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2021
The old town area is really lovely. Rebuilt old buildings which housed restaurants, cafes and different shops. We went in the late afternoon and walked around and took a local boat ride to the other side of the creek and back for less than 5 AED per person. Very interesting and the sunset was a bonus!
Written 26 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Moraseeds
Dubai, United Arab Emirates36 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
It is an experience to walk in Al Seef, mixing up the modern and the ancient style building, you will find great restaurants of all cuisine, nice boutiques of clothes, jewels perfume, toys, souvenirs, etc... some activities for the kids, but also the museum of Illusion. It allied the heritage and the modernity of Dubai with the view on the sea and of all the boats! Simply love it!
Written 5 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Moraseeds, thank you for the positive feedback! We're always happy to hear good things from our guests. Al Seef Team
Written 15 April 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Hannes
Pforzheim, Germany31 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020 • Couples
Al Seef is a very good place to be, when you want to have a taste of the old Dubai. There are many bars, restaurants and small shops within the heritage place of Al Seef. If you want to cross the river to the Deira Old Souke, take the water Taxi that only costs 1-2 AED.
Written 6 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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Al Seef - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

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