A long time ago, Dubai was a major trading hub. I know, it’s not a surprising fact. But do you know what is surprising? How efficiently the nation was able to preserve its old cities that still busted with life as it did during the trading days of the past. One such historically relevant and visually pleasing location in Dubai is its Spice Souk. Let us dive deep into this marvel and learn how to navigate it best when we get a chance to visit.
The Home Of Spices
We all know how big of a role spices played in connecting countries and fortifying trade relationships. Dubai became the biggest player in the spice industry by connecting the East with the West, all thanks to the wonderful collection of spices the nation could provide. With this knowledge, you can now appreciate Spice Souk’s role in making Dubai the luxurious nation we know of today. The criss-cross alleys and the wooden architecture of the spice stalls transport the visitors to a world that belonged to a different time, which somehow was preserved in the midst of the most modern nation in the world. The moment you step into the Souk, you will experience something of the sort of a sensory explosion. The sudden introduction of aromas of different strengths and shades would be nothing less than amazing for the visitors.
As you peer into the stalls, you will be able to see the merchants, all dressed in their traditional Arabic attires, getting ready for the trading day to unravel before them. You can see them measuring the spices and then packaging them to give them over to the buyers. Each spice has a story to tell, which reminds me of the book Mistress of Spices written by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. If you ever wanted to read about fiction on spices, I suggest you give it a try
The Rainbow Of Colors and Aromas
The Spice Souk is not only a treat for your olfactory organs but is a visual treat as well. The burst of colors reminds one of a unique rainbow that keeps getting lighter and darker like it is always in a state of flux. The yellow spices, like turmeric, are kept in sacks close to other spices, like brown cinnamon, red chili, and luxurious saffron. Speaking of saffron, did you know that it is one of the most expensive spices in the world? The authentic ones are super hard to come across as well. The spice merchants of Dubai flaunt their personal collection of saffron, which acts kinda like a testament to the opulence and luxury of the nation. The souk also has cardamoms, which are an integral part of Arabic cuisine. There are both green and black cardamom available here, which can be bought as pods in small packets from the traders. It has such a fresh aroma that it can be used in both sweet and the very savory dishes. There is also cinnamon and sumac, the latter being a bit more citrusy in nature. You might not be much familiar with sumac, but it is also a staple in the Middle Eastern dishes. Why not take a bit of everything back home and try adding them to your everyday dishes? Might make them taste better!
All Things Nutty and Tasty
How can we not speak about the collection of other wonderful eateries in the Spice Souk while we are there? No discussion of Dubai would be complete without adding dates into the mix. If you want to know what actual real dates taste like, you must come to Spice Souk and taste a sample. The best part is that dates come in all shapes, sizes, and flavors here. Be it dried, plump, soft, or hard, every variety is easily available here.
Almonds, pistachios, and walnuts are the stars of the stall as well. People from across the globe come to Dubai to get a taste of their delicious nuts and take some back home to their loved ones as well. Just like dates, you can find all sorts of varieties of nuts here. There is the plain old nuts, and then there is the spiced ones. For the sweet tooths, there is a honey-glazed version of it available as well. You get to purchase them as individual packages or even as an assortment of nuts. The choice is all yours.
The Art Of Spice Shopping
Now that you are well-versed in the commodities available to buy in the Spice Souk let me share some of the tips you can use to get the best deal for the spices and nuts in the market. The first thing is that you should not shy away from bargaining. But don’t be harsh, be polite but try to get a good deal. Try to create a sense of friendship with the traders and make the air lighter when it comes to bargaining. Then, make sure to have liquid money with you. We might not know if all stalls accept cards. Bring a bag with you to carry the spices and commodities you have purchased. Then, take the time to observe the market and decide for yourself what to buy.
The Spice Souk Itinerary
You now know everything there is to know about Spice Souk to make the most of the place on your own. Even then, here is a small sample of how you can spend your typical day at the place. P.S., this is completely changeable.
Traditional Breakfast
Deira cafés serve typical Arabic breakfasts.
Enjoy falafel, hummus, foul, and Arabic bread with coffee or tea.
Visit Spice Souk
Enjoy the local scenery as you go to the Spice Souk.
Avoid crowds and noon heat by arriving early.
Shop for Spices
Explore the Spice Souk’s small lanes and lively vendors.
Meet shopkeepers, try spices, and begin your spice buying. Look for different spices, dried fruits, nuts, and herbs. Lunch might be at a neighborhood restaurant or typical Arabic restaurant.
Try local shawarma, kebabs, and biryani.
Continue exploring
Visit the Spice Souk again to see what you missed in the morning. Wait to bargain and buy any remaining goods on your list. Take a typical abra ride along Dubai Creek.
Take images of the city skyline and gorgeous vistas.
Relax and contemplate your Spice Souk visit.
Tour Gold and Perfume Souks
Visit the neighboring Gold and Perfume Souks. See the gold jewelry and smell the traditional perfumes. Visit the Al Fahidi Historic District.
Discover Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Museum. Enjoy the sunset and local culture.
Local Restaurant Dinner
Select a historical district or Dubai Creek restaurant.
Relaxed evening walk around Dubai Creek.
Admire the lit skyline and lake reflections.
You can return to your hotel or explore Dubai’s nightlife.
All Things Sweet And Spicy
You will love the Spice Souk, there is no doubt about that. Even if you are part of a tour group and you have a guide to help you show the place, you can navigate the souk on your own and do your shopping without having to feel lost or confused. It is an excellent place to discover the marvels of Dubai, so make sure you take full advantage of the trip!
