Shopping tours in Dubai blend the city’s traditional markets with modern mega-malls, offering visitors efficient ways to navigate both worlds. The classic Old Dubai tours excel at introducing travelers to the authentic gold and spice souks, where you’ll learn bargaining skills while exploring narrow alleyways filled with aromatic spices and glittering jewelry shops.
I especially love the combination mall and souk tours – they smartly connect Dubai’s past and present in a single outing. The best ones include stops at Dubai Mall (home to the famous aquarium) and the atmospheric Textile Souk, giving you a perfect contrast of old and new.
Tours that include Global Village deserve special mention, offering a fascinating mix of international pavilions where you can shop for crafts and treats from dozens of countries. The evening tours are particularly atmospheric, when temperatures cool and the markets come alive with local energy.
Let’s explore the finest shopping tours Dubai has to offer.
Key Points
- Dubai’s Global Village offers a diverse shopping experience with international pavilions, food sampling, and family entertainment.
- Dubai Mall, the world’s largest mall, houses numerous high-end stores, the Dubai Aquarium, and the Burj Khalifa Sky.
- Traditional souks like the Deira Spice Souk and the Gold Souk provide unique shopping experiences with haggling opportunities.
- Guided shopping tours offer a hassle-free experience, with transportation, language assistance, and insider tips on the best bargains.
- Luxury shopping at the Dubai Design District (D3) showcases the latest in fashion, art, and design from global brands.
Dubai Desert Morning Tour in 4WD Vehicle: Camel Ride, Quad Bike Tour, Sandboarding, and Camel Farm
Travelers can look forward to a thrilling morning adventure in the Dubai desert aboard a 4WD vehicle.
The Dubai Desert Morning Tour offers an exciting blend of activities, including a traditional Bedouin-style camel ride, an adrenaline-fueled quad bike tour, and the thrill of sandboarding down the dunes.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to visit a camel farm and capture photos of the gentle animals.
With a maximum group size of 18, this tour provides a personalized experience led by friendly guides who are skilled at photography, ensuring memorable moments are preserved.
Available for ages 14 and up, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an authentic desert experience in Dubai.
Read our full review: Dubai Desert Morning Tour in 4WD Vehicle: Camel Ride, Quad Bike Tour, Sandboarding, and Camel Farm Review
Book now: Check availability
Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village Shopping Tour
A thrilling Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village Shopping Tour awaits visitors, offering a unique blend of botanical wonders and immersive cultural experiences.
The tour takes you to the world’s largest flower garden, boasting over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants. Afterward, explore the vibrant Global Village, where you can indulge in shopping, food sampling, and family-friendly entertainment.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and inclusive entrance fees, this tour provides a hassle-free experience.
Positive reviews highlight the stunning scenery, excellent driver communication, and overall enjoyment. While some mention communication and timing issues, the tour remains a must-visit for travelers seeking a combination of sightseeing and cultural exploration in Dubai.
Read our full review: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village Shopping Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Dubai Mall Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Nestled within the iconic Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo captivates visitors with its diverse marine habitats and the opportunity to come face-to-face with an array of aquatic creatures.
Featuring a walk-through underwater tunnel, the aquarium offers all-day admission to explore the penguins, sharks, rays, and thousands of tropical fish.
While prebooking tickets is recommended to save time, the flexible entry allows visitors to arrive at their convenience.
Though some reviews note a lack of organization, the aquarium’s beauty, detailed animal explanations, and family-friendly atmosphere have earned it an average rating of 3.8 out of 71 reviews.
Transfers from centrally located hotels are available, but the aquarium isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Dubai Mall Aquarium & Underwater Zoo Review
Book now: Check availability
Aquarium and Underwater With Penguin Cove Zoo Dubai Mall
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo at the Dubai Mall offers visitors an immersive journey into the world of marine life.
Featuring a 10 million-liter tank housing thousands of exotic sea creatures, the aquarium provides an educational and entertaining adventure.
Visitors can explore the Underwater Zoo, which includes a glass-bottom boat tour for a unique viewing experience.
The attraction is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a great family-friendly destination.
While the aquarium boasts impressive features, reviews indicate room for improvement, with no 5-star or 4-star ratings among the 15 total reviews.
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo remains a must-visit attraction for those seeking to discover the wonders of the underwater world.
Read our full review: Aquarium and Underwater With Penguin Cove Zoo Dubai Mall Review
Book now: Check availability
Combo Dubai Mall Aquarium + Skyview Observatory Tickets
For those seeking to experience the wonders of Dubai’s iconic landmarks, the Combo Dubai Mall Aquarium + Skyview Observatory Tickets provides a captivating package.
Located in the heart of Dubai, this experience offers visitors the chance to explore the Dubai Mall Aquarium, home to over 140 species of marine life, and ascend to the Skyview Observatory on floors 52 and 53 of The Address twin towers for stunning panoramic views of the city skyline.
Catering to thrill-seekers and families alike, the combo tickets provide access to the glass elevator ride, one-time glass slide, and all fees and taxes.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before and a reserve now, pay later option, this experience is a must-do for any Dubai visitor.
Read our full review: Combo Dubai Mall Aquarium + Skyview Observatory Tickets Review
Book now: Check availability
Dubai Mall Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Ticket
Situated within the expansive Dubai Mall, the Dubai Mall Aquarium and Underwater Zoo offers visitors an immersive journey into the captivating world of marine life.
With tickets priced from $69.77 per person, this attraction provides free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a convenient “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option.
Catering to various accessibility needs, the aquarium is wheelchair and stroller-friendly, and located near public transportation.
While the overall rating is a solid 4.2 out of 6 reviews, one notable disappointment revolved around ticket issues.
Nevertheless, the attraction ensures confirmation and reminders for barcoded tickets, though communication efforts weren’t always successful.
Read our full review: Dubai Mall Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Ticket Review
Book now: Check availability
Dubai Evening Desert Safari & BBQ Dinner-Pickup From Dubai Mall
Setting out on a captivating desert adventure, the Dubai Evening Desert Safari & BBQ Dinner offers an immersive experience for visitors to Dubai.
With a pickup from the Dubai Mall, this tour includes thrilling dune bashing, sand boarding, and a short camel ride. Guests can also enjoy a delectable BBQ dinner accompanied by lively entertainment, such as belly dancing, fire dancing, and Tanura dance.
Recommended for those with moderate physical fitness, the safari isn’t suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions. Priced from $27.91 per person, the tour offers a low-price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
With 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, it’s an unforgettable desert escapade.
Read our full review: Dubai Evening Desert Safari & BBQ Dinner-Pickup From Dubai Mall Review
Book now: Check availability
Kidzania- Dubai Mall – Admission Ticket
KidZania at Dubai Mall offers an immersive indoor experience that allows children aged 4-16 to explore over 40 real-world professions.
Tickets can be purchased in advance to save time and ensure entry on preferred dates. Kids can engage in over 80 role-playing activities, including roles like firefighters, chefs, DJs, pilots, and reporters, with supervisor guidance to enhance the educational experience.
Admission prices start from $24.00 per person, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
KidZania is wheelchair and stroller accessible, located near public transportation, and has received a 4.1 rating based on 13 reviews.
Read our full review: Kidzania- Dubai Mall – Admission Ticket Review
Book now: Check availability
Walking Old Dubai Tour With Gold Market & Speice Market Private
Uncover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Old Dubai on this private walking tour.
Explore the iconic Gold Souk and fragrant Spice Market, enjoying the city’s rich heritage.
With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll navigate the charming streets, learning about Dubai’s transformation from a modest fishing village to a global shopping destination.
The tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, and travelers with specific medical conditions may want to reconsider.
However, most visitors can participate and enjoy the educational experience.
Priced from $80 per person, this private tour offers a lowest price guarantee and flexible booking options, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic Dubai shopping adventure.
Read our full review: Walking Old Dubai Tour With Gold Market & Speice Market Private Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Dubai offers a variety of exciting shopping tours that cater to diverse interests. From the thrill of desert adventures to the wonder of indoor attractions, visitors can explore the city’s vibrant markets, iconic malls, and captivating cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, leisure, or a unique shopping expedition, Dubai has something to suit every traveler’s preferences.