Low Fare
The traditional abra crossing is repeatedly reported at just 1 AED, making it both transport and an inexpensive Dubai experience.
Dubai Old Souq Marine Transport Station
Bur Dubai
Dubai Old Souq Marine Transport Station is a ferry terminal in Bur Dubai, best known for traditional abra crossings over Dubai Creek. A short ride connects the old souq side with Deira, while the creek and skyline views make the journey part of the experience.
Reputation Score
4.6
★★★★★
459 ratings
Source: Google Maps
The Good Stuff
Creek Crossing
It provides a practical link between Bur Dubai and Deira, including access towards the Gold Souq, Spice Souk and Textile Souk areas.
City Views
The short journey gives you views of Dubai's historic waterfront, newer buildings and skyline, particularly around sunset and at night.
Short Waits
One review describes little waiting at the pier, which suits visitors using the abra as a quick way across the creek.
Safety Measures
A review specifically notes safety jackets and controlled passenger numbers on each ride, adding reassurance for families and first-time riders.
Tips for a Better Visit
Carry Change. Bring small change for the fare; one reviewer says the ferryman may not always have change available.
Confirm Destination. Call out where you are going when you arrive and staff or boatmen can guide you to the correct boat.
Try Sunrise. For a quieter photography-focused visit, consider sunrise; one reviewer highlighted the area then and received help finding photo spots.
Go At Night. Evening trips are useful if you want illuminated buildings and abra lights, with reviewers specifically mentioning night views.
Allow Time. The crossing is short, but one review describes a 15–20 minute boat ride, so allow more than just the boarding time.
Plan the visit
Practical details
Creeck
Al Souq Al Kabeer - Al Fahidi, Dubai
Popular Mentions
water taxi
Reviews mention the water taxi as a relaxed way to travel from the Bastakiya side towards the Gold Souk and Spice Souk.
heritage Abra service
The heritage Abra service links the old souq area with Al Sabka, providing a traditional alternative to crossing by road.
Common Concerns
Basic Ride
The experience is functional rather than polished: one reviewer described the ride as loud and smelly, despite considering it worthwhile.
DXB
LOCAL
LOCAL
The Bottom Line
Dubai Old Souq Marine Transport Station is a useful Bur Dubai starting point for crossing Dubai Creek by traditional abra. The main draw is the simple route towards Deira, including the Al Sabka, Gold Souq and nearby souq areas, with the ride itself providing views of old Dubai, newer buildings and the busy waterfront. The standard abra experience is repeatedly described as costing 1 AED.
That makes it a practical shortcut when the creek area is busy, but also a low-cost way to experience traditional Dubai transport. Reviews describe short waits at the pier, though the boats are basic rather than polished; one visitor specifically found the ride loud and smelly. Timing changes the atmosphere.
Sunrise appeals to photographers, while evening and sunset trips bring illuminated buildings, colourful abra lights and strong skyline views. The crossing can be calm and enjoyable, but it remains public transport rather than a private cruise. Bring small change, since one reviewer warned that the ferryman may not always have any.
If you are unsure which boat to take, call out your destination and ask for guidance. For a longer private-style outing, one review mentions hiring a little boat for 120 dhs for about 60 minutes, though this should be treated as a customer-reported price rather than a current tariff.