Dubai · Attraction
Dubai Creek by abra and the Deira souks
A short abra ride across Dubai Creek is one of the most charming ways to experience old Dubai. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) runs several abra routes on the creek, including the crossing between Al Fahidi, on the Bur Dubai side, and Deira Old Souq, gateway to the traditional souks of Deira.
Essential information
- Opening hours
- CR5 runs from 8am (9:30am on Sunday) until 11:30pm to 11:45pm, depending on the day.
- Tickets
- AED 2 on regular routes, by cash, nol or bank card; the private electric abra TR10 is from AED 60 per boat.
- Getting there
- Route CR5 links Al Fahidi, on the Bur Dubai side, with Deira Old Souq station.
- Time to allow
- About an hour for the crossing and a first stroll through the souks.
The crossing
According to the RTA, its abras link stations around Dubai Creek and are well connected with the metro and bus, used both by commuters and by visitors. The route most travellers want is CR5, between Al Fahidi and Deira Old Souq.
As its name suggests, Deira Old Souq station sits in the old souq area on the Deira side.
RTA routes and timings
- CR5, Al Fahidi to Deira Old Souq: Monday to Thursday 8am to 11:30pm, Friday 8am to 11:40pm, Saturday 8am to 11:45pm, Sunday 9:30am to 11:45pm; AED 2.
- CR3 Dubai Old Souq to Baniyas, CR4 Al Sabkha to Al Fahidi and CR6 Al Seef to Baniyas: AED 2 each, starting between 7am and 10am and ending between 11:35pm and 11:50pm, varying by route and day.
- CR7, Al Seef to Al Fahidi and Dubai Old Souq, is on hold until further notice.
- Electric abra TR10, a private tour via Al Seef, Al Fahidi and Baniyas: daily 4pm to 11pm, last departure at 10:15pm, AED 60 for 30 minutes or AED 120 for 60 minutes per boat, seating up to 8.
Practical tips
Besides cash, nol and cards at the stations, tickets are sold at the marine station kiosk or point of sale and can be booked online. People of Determination and children under 5 travel free on commuter trips.
The RTA asks passengers to be at the station before the listed time, as departures vary from station to station, and notes that timings may differ during Ramadan and public holidays. The High Class team confirms everything for your date on WhatsApp before the programme is booked.
Your High Class private driver can drop you on one bank and meet you on the other.
Combining the visit
The crossing pairs naturally with Al Fahidi, which Visit Dubai describes as a heritage district along Dubai Creek with wind towers, museums and art galleries. Later, Dubai Frame rounds off a day devoted to the story of the city.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the abra crossing cost?
The RTA lists AED 2 on its regular routes, including CR5 between Al Fahidi and Deira Old Souq, payable in cash, with nol or by card.
Can I have an abra to myself?
Yes, with the electric abra TR10, which the RTA operates as a private tour charged per boat and duration, for up to 8 people.
Official sources consulted (2)
- RTA Dubai, Dubai Creek Abra. https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/home/promotion/dubai-creek-abra Consulted on .
- Visit Dubai, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. https://www.visitdubai.com/en/places-to-visit/al-fahidi-historical-neighbourhood Consulted on .
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