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Abra: The Cheapest Tourist Attraction in Dubai
Dubai is one of the most expensive cities in the world. This activity is not only the cheapest but the best thing you can do in Dubai.
The Cheapest Tourist Attraction in Dubai

Dubai is notoriously a city for those who have money. The more your spending budget, the better the time you will have here in Dubai. It is expensive. However, did you know… quite possibly one of the best experiences you can have in Dubai is also the cheapest! And by cheap I mean 1 AED, 1 Dirham! That’s 20p! US$0.27!

The Abra

The tourist attraction I am referring to is the Abra. What is the Abra I hear you ask. An Abra is a traditional wooden boat that takes you from one end of the Dubai creek to the other. Essentially, a very old school small ferry or water-taxi kind of transport. It takes you from Bur Dubai to Deira and vice versa.

Where is it?

It is located in almost the perfect location for such an activity. It is nostalgic for Dubai locals and a glimpse into the past for tourists. You are taken from Bur Dubai to Deira on a boat. Bur Dubai is far from the sky scrapers and fancy cars of Dubai that one is used to. It almost feels like a completely different city. It feels older and more authentic. And this feeling escalates when you cross the creek and get to Deira. Traditionally, tourists only venture into this part of Dubai for shopping – whether it is they are looking for bargains, authentic items, or gold this place is the place to be. Excellent for street shopping (the old market style of shopping) and that is both sides of the creek. Read more about the Gold Souq here. Many unfortunately, get the metro to get to the other side and as a result lose out on such an awesome experience.

The experience

So, you can either get to the Al Ghubaiba Metro Station and then walk to the Abra station or just get a taxi to the Abra station directly. You can also go and enjoy Al Fahidi District, which is a representation of what old Dubai looked like (another great experience!) eat at a nice place there and then walk to the Abra station. Make sure you have your 1 Dirham ready, having change will be handy. Wait for the Abra to arrive (and they do so frequently, so you don’t have to wait long), get on board and take a seat. Someone will come round to take the fare from you. The ride only lasts 5 minutes. It is one that is a little rocky at times, but the views and vibes that you get is unmatched with anywhere else in Dubai at that price point (quite easily).

Summary

Location: Dubai Creek (Bur Dubai and Deira)

Price: 1 AED (one way)

Top tip: Combine this activity with a day out in Al Fahidi District or a market shopping day.

More information here.

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