My Travelogue

Thursday, September 1, 2011

[Video] - My Dubai Old Souq (Souk) Trip 2011

Souks are the Arabic Markets where all kinds of goods are bought sold and exchanged.Traditionally ,dhows from the far east,china,ceyion and india would discharge their cargoes,and the goods would be haggled over in the souks adgacent to the docks.over the years,the item on sale have changed dramatically from spices,silks and perfumes to include electronic good and the latest kitsch consumer trends.

Although Dubai's Souks aren't as fascinating as others in the arab world,such as marrakenh in morocco or mutrah in oman,they are worth a visit for their bustling atmosphere,the eclectic varity of goods and the traditional way of doing business.

The myriad of souks are located on both banks of the Creek,but predominantly in deira(it's worth exploring both sides if you have the time).you can cross between the two banks of Creek in about ten minutes on one of the many abras(small wooden dhows) that line of Creek;it only costs 50 fils.Alternatively, most taxi drivers knows where to go if you ask for a specific souk and the fares are reasonable.If you have the time,why not brave the public transport.Bus numbers 5,16,19 and 20
run frequently throughout the day and stop all of the souks,both side of the Creek.

It is wise to visit when the weather is a little cooler in the late afternoon,but for early birds the souks open 07:00-12:00.They then re-open between 17:00-19:0,every day except friday,when they only open in the afternoon.thrusday and friday evening are the busiest times as this is the weekend for many people.This is a great time to witness the souk trading at full throttle,but if you are more intrested in exploring at a leisurely place,then these evenings are best avoided.