Souk Madinat Jumeirah: go shopping in a traditional setting!

Among Dubai's best traditional markets, the Souk Madinat Jumeirah is one of the best places to visit in Dubai.

I'll take you there in this article.

Follow the guide!

Madinat souk in Jumeirah: article summary

Why visit the Madinat souk in Jumeirah?

Located close to the villas at Jumeirah and imitating a traditional Arabian bazaar, the souk offers a multitude of restaurants, cafés and bars. Surrounded by magnificent gardens and palm-lined waterways, the emblematic Burj Al Arab adorns the background of Souk Madinat. This unique Arab-inspired leisure and shopping destination is also known for its breathtaking, postcard-perfect views.

What to do in Madinat Jumeirah souk

From a spellbinding ride on a drifting abra through a maze of traditional stores and bustling restaurants, a day in the souk is truly a magical experience. Fortunately for shopping and leisure enthusiasts alike, there are lots to do in Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Let me introduce you to each of these activities.

Shopping in the Souk 

If you want to avoid the hassle of haggling but still want to experience the color and ambience of an ancient market, then shopping in the souk is one of the activities you'll enjoy. As you wander through the winding alleyways, the lingering scents of spices draw you in, while Persian carpets, Turkish pottery and sparkling jewelry will also capture your attention..

If you're looking for unique accessories for your home, consider stopping off at Miri or Persian Carpet House. Then plunge into the dazzling world of jewelry and watches at the souk's Rivoli, Eva Gems and Le Paris Diamonds boutiques.

For trinkets and other incredible finds, you can make a quick stop at the indoor stalls and ephemeral boutiques. Looking for something upmarket? You'll also find a selection of brand boutiques such as Braschi, Paris Moda and Kiwi Saint-Tropez.

Dinner at Souk Madinat in Jumeirah

While there are many local dining options, Souk Madinat Jumeirah restaurants represent a multitude of international cuisines to satisfy everyone's appetite. A harmonious blend of modernity and tradition, the historic atmosphere provides a charming backdrop to these dining venues.

Visit Trattoria Toscana and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine prepared with a Mediterranean touch.

Times of Arabia attracts visitors with its Middle Eastern cuisine and tasty chichas.

While admiring the view of the local waterways, you can enjoy fresh seafood specialties in the romantic setting of Pierchic or discover fragrant and flavourful curries at the Pai Thai.

For dessert, treat yourself to an ice cream with Gelato Divino.

Finally, you can dine at the Trader Vic's and dance to the lively Latin-American rhythms of the restaurant's live concerts.

Take an abra tour

One of the things I recommend you do at Souk Madinat in Jumeirah is to take an abra tour. Climb aboard one of these traditional Emirati boats and cruise the winding lanes to discover all the details of the souk.

To make this trip even more fascinating, the ab's navigator will tell interesting stories and legends about the place. This is undoubtedly one of the activities not to be missed!

A boat trip to the Madinat souk in Jumeirah is one of the souk's most popular activities.

You don't need to be a hotel or restaurant guest to enjoy this tranquil cruise aboard the traditional motorboat, which includes comfortable seating for 10. No pre-booking requiredexcept during rush hours.

To take advantage of this abra tour, you need to go to :

• from Sunday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. in winter
• from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. to 11 p.m. in summer

Each tour departs every 20 minutes and lasts 20 minutes.

Finally, count :

• 100 AED (€27) per adult
• 50 AED (€13) per child for a full-day visit

Enjoy the Madinat theater

To take full advantage of the Souk's fun side, be sure to catch a show at the Madinat Theater. Nestled in the heart of the Souk, the theater can accommodate up to 440 guests. The Madinat Theater presents a variety of performances every day, including Russian ballet, British pantomime, musicals and stand-up comedy.

Tickets are available from the on-site box office.

Discover the nightlife at Souk Madinat in Jumeirah

While its architectural beauty can be appreciated during a daytime visit, some of the souk's attractions come alive after sunset. The gardens light up, while the Burj Al Arab sparkles in the background..

If you want to party, many bars open their doors at dusk. Finally, you can practice your singing skills at the Klounge karaoke bar, an ultra-luxurious bar in the souk.

What are the souk opening times?

Souk Madinat Jumeirah opening hours are from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.while restaurants remain open between 8 a.m. and 2 a.m.

How do I get to the Madinat de Jumeirah souk?

If you're coming by car, you can park in the Souk Madinat underground parking lot. However, as finding a parking space can be a challenge on weekends and public holidays, I recommend you consider public transport options. This way, you can reach the locations:

• Visit cab
• Visit bus routes 8, 81, F55A and X28

As well as Dubai, there are incredible souks in other parts of the United Arab Emirates. For example, Abu Dhabi's Qaryat Al Beri souk and Sharjah's central souk are favorite shopping spots for many. However, the Madinat souk in Jumeirah remains for me one of the most beautiful in the United Arab Emirates.

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