Souk Madinat Jumeirah

The Basics

The Souk Madinat Jumeirah replicates classic Arabian market architecture, with earth-toned wind towers, and carved timber ceilings and arches. Inside, about 75 outlets await, from gift emporiums to boutiques, jewelers, and international chains. Dozens of restaurants and bars serve an array of different cuisines, and their tables spill out beside the palm-lined waterways that lend the souk its “Little Venice” nickname. The final touch is the Madinat Theatre, which offers evening shows.

The souk appears on many Dubai city tours that include time to roam the shops and enjoy the Burj Al Arab views from the waterside terraces. Evening tours let you enjoy the complex at its prettiest, when its waterways and wind towers are illuminated and music adds to the ambience. The souk is also featured on many Dubai shopping tours as a contrast to glitzier malls.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a must for shoppers, foodies, and night owls.

• Take sunscreen if you’re planning to visit the courtyard cafés or terrace bars.

• Cabs are plentiful at the souk.

• If you’re driving, underground parking is available and is free for an initial period.

• The souk is wheelchair-friendly, with access via elevators at the entrance.

How to Get There

The Souk Madinat Jumeirah lies south of the Burj Al Arab in Dubai’s Jumeirah district, where Jumeirah Street meets Umm Suqeim Street. Ride the metro to the Mall of the Emirates station—the nearest metro stop—and catch a cab or one of the regular buses that run to the souk.

When to Get There

The Souk is open all week, year-round, with its shops open 10am-11pm and its restaurants 8am–2am. Tourists flock here during Dubai’s winter (Dec. to March), so expect crowds at peak times. Things quiet down come summer, although the air conditioning makes the souk an ideal refuge from the heat.

Sail the Souk Waterways

Be sure to ride a wooden abra boat along the souk waterways while you’re here. Follow the signs to theabra station and hire a boat to cruise the turquoise channels, admiring the palms, wind towers, and views of the Burj Al Arab en route.

How do I get to Souk Madinat Jumeirah?

To get to Souk Madinat Jumeirah, ride the metro to the Mall of the Emirates, then either take a taxi or one of the regular buses the rest of the way. Plenty of tours visit the souk with round-trip transportation included.

What types of shops are there in Souk Madinat Jumeirah?

There are all sorts of shops at Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Here you'll find everything from clothing stores to jewelry boutiques specializing in gold, plus handicrafts like colorful lanterns and Arabic pottery, as well as Dubai souvenirs.

Are there any dining options at Souk Madinat Jumeirah?

Yes, there are lots of dining options at Souk Madinat Jumeirah—many people come here specifically to eat. The options are diverse and seemingly endless, with everything from Indian restaurants to sushi spots, alongside international chain cafés. You'll even find Belgian and Irish pubs.

Can I haggle prices at Souk Madinat Jumeirah?

Yes, you can technically haggle at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, but it’s not common. Items typically have fixed prices, however, if you feel comfortable asking for a discount—particularly if you’re buying in bulk—it doesn’t hurt to try.

What payment methods are accepted at Souk Madinat Jumeirah?

Vendors at Souk Madinat Jumeirah typically accept all major credit cards and endorsed debit cards, even for very small purchases. However, it’s never a bad idea to have some cash for tips at restaurants, even if you pay the bill with a card.

Are there any entertainment options at Souk Madinat Jumeirah?

Yes, there are entertainment options at Souk Madinat Jumeirah. The souk is home to the Theatre of Digital Arts (ToDA), a multimedia theater that hosts digital immersive exhibits focused on fine arts. There’s also the Madinat Theatre where you can see a variety of evening shows.