How To Experience Dubai Like A Local: A Guide To Authentic Adventures – Find The Soul Of Dubai

Listly

2 days ago

Dubai is known for its beautiful skyline, mega malls and record-breaking attractions. However, behind all the fancy attractions is a unique and beautiful culture waiting to be explored. If you want to go beyond the tourist locations and experience the city the way locals do, you are in for a very rewarding adventure. From heritage districts and busy souks to seaside cafes, here is how to have an authentic experience in Dubai like a local.
When To Visit Dubai And What To Know
The months of November to March are the cooler months in Dubai. Daytime temperature is perfect for exploring outdoor places like markets, going for a walking tour, beach days or desert excursions. Many cultural festivals and events also happen during this period, making your stay more meaningful. Make sure to respect the festivities and local customs, like avoiding public eating and drinking during the day during Ramadan. Make sure to dress modestly in public, especially when visiting mosques or old neighbourhoods. Learn a few Arabic greetings like Marhaba, which means hello, or Shukaran, which means thank you.
Base Yourself Where Locals Stay
Most visitors head to beach resorts or iconic skyscrapers. However, the heart of the city lies in its dynamic urban hubs like Downtown Dubai. Staying at a central hotel like Anantara Downtown Dubai will place you in a prime location for both luxury and authenticity. From here, you are just a short walk or a ride away from charming old neighbourhoods, hidden restaurants and cultural landmarks that will make you understand the Dubai culture and help you mingle with the locals. There are many things to do in Downtown Dubai, and hotels in this area give you a perfect mix of modern comfort and local flavour to make your experience authentic.
Explore Old Dubai On Foot
To see the soul of the city, head to the historic neighbourhoods of Al Fahidi and Al Seef. You can walk through the narrow alleyways lined with wind towers, art galleries and museums like the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort. For a moment, you may even feel like you have walked into a scene from Aladdin. Then you can take a traditional Abra, a wooden boat across the Dubai creek. A favourite mode of transport among the locals to reach Deira. Visit the Gold Souk to see some amazing gold jewellery and gold items or even to get some amazing souvenirs. The spice souk is famous for fragrant herbs, and you will see rare spices. You can visit the textile souk to get some colourful fabrics. A core concept among the locals visiting these souks will be to bargain. So don't be shy to bargain; it's all part of the fun. Make sure to explore this area by foot for an authentic, local-like experience.
Eat Like A Local
Dubai is famous for authentic Emirati dishes. The culinary scene extends from luxury buffets and celebrity chef restaurants to street food and home-run restaurants with excellent food. If you visit areas like Al Karama, Al Rigga and Satwa, which are just a ride away from downtown, you will find food places loved by the residents. You must try shawarma from corner stalls, Iranian kebabs from family-run restaurants, or some South Indian dosa with masala chai. You can also try Emirati dishes like Machboos, which is a spiced rice with meat, Harees and Luqaimat, which is a type of sweet dumplings mostly served in traditional settings.
Experience The Outdoors Like A Local
During the cooler months, you will see locals visiting beachside cafes, desert camps and green parks. Kite Beach is a favourite weekend spot for families and young adults, with food trucks, bike paths and volleyball nets right by the sea. If you want to enjoy a quiet evening, you can visit the Al Qudra Lake in the desert. You can enjoy a sunset picnic and do a bit of bird-watching. Other parks like Zabeel Park and Creek Park offer open spaces for kids, joggers and casual gatherings. Another must-try activity is the Desert Safari.
Attend Local Events And Community Happenings
Dubai's calendar is packed with many festivals. From heritage festivals in Al Shindagha to open mic nights, local film screenings and farmers' markets, there is always something going on. Check community platforms or hotel concierge desks to find out about pop-ups and festivals. You can also take some Emirati cooking classes, calligraphy workshops or yoga sessions at sunrise on the beach with the locals.