For someone, who is visiting Dubai with the idea of getting to know the real side of the Arabian World, Souk Madinat Jumeirah becomes a must-visit.
As the name suggests, this place is essentially a bazaar – a marketplace that resembles a mix of Arabic heritage and modern concepts.
Irrespective of whether you wish to shop or not, you can still take a stroll through this souk. This bazaar is also a part of the gorgeous Madinat Jumeirah Resort.
Right from perfumed scents, beautiful lanterns, and strong spices to tastefully crafted souvenirs and boat rides on the water – all these and more await to welcome you at Madinat Jumeirah.
With over 75 shops, galleries, and dining options, you will be spoilt for choice on your visit to this bazaar.
The Nightlife is equally vibrant at this souk with performing artists spilling out some enticing tunes to add to your experience.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Location and How to Get There
An outdoor mall, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is located at the Kings Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St – Al Sufouh 1, Jumeirah Road.
Unlike the usually enclosed malls, this souk has a relaxing vibe to it. If Arabic architecture excites you, then there is no better place than Souk Madinat Jumeirah to please you.
You can take the metro to get here. The closest metro station would be the Mall of Emirates station. You can spend some time at the Mall of Emirates before heading to the Souk.
Once you get down at the station, you can take a taxi or uber to Souk Madinat Jumeirah. One can easily hire a taxi outside the station. The distance between the station and the souk is about 2.8 kilometers. Thus, the cab ride would last for about 5 minutes and not cost much either. You will be dropped right outside the souk’s main entrance.
If you enjoy walking, then you can simply walk up to the Souk from the station.
We also have the Big Bus Dubai Tour, which takes tourists around Dubai. If you sign up for this tour, then they will take you to this bazaar as well. This ride is perfect for people who wish to have a guided sightseeing experience.
One of the most luxurious hotels in Dubai is the Burj Al Arab. On your visit to Souk Madinat Jumeirah, you will be delighted to witness this beautiful edifice in the backdrop.
Burj Al Arab is one of the tallest hotels in Dubai which resembles the sail of a ship. Located on an artificial island around 280 meters from Jumeirah Beach, this iconic building is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge. You cannot simply walk into this hotel to get a closer look at it.
Managed by the Jumeirah group, this hotel is home to 202-bedroom suites that are accommodated by 28 double-story floors. Out of the many elite services offered at this hotel, the highlight remains the shuttle service with Rolls Royce, a helicopter, and a private beach.
If you love good food, then there are six different restaurants serving some delectable cuisine inside this hotel.
When at the Souk, you can click some amazing pictures with this awe-striking backdrop and return with a content and satisfied soul.
A Quick Overview of Getting to Souk Madinat
| From | Bus | Metro | Taxi |
| JBR | 19mins | NA | 9mins |
| Downtown Dubai | NA | 48mins & 33min walk | 15mins |
| Palm Jumeirah | NA | 35mins (Monorail,Tram,Bus) | 9mins |
| Jumeirah Beach (Umm Suqeim) | 16mins | NA | 6mins |
Opening Hours
Souk Madinat Jumeirah is open between 10 am to 11 pm.
Things to do at Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a place full of excitement and extraordinary things! We are listing here the most beloved activities that you must try during your visit to this fabulous bazaar.
Take an Abra Ride
Your visit to Souk Madinat Jumeirah is incomplete in absence of the much-talked-about Abra Ride. You cannot miss that perfect Instagram shot with you posing on the Abra with the Burj Al Arab accompanying you in the background.
If you are staying at one of the Jumeirah hotels, then the Abra Ride works out to be complimentary for you. For those of you who are not staying at any of these hotels, you can always get a paid ride.
Abra Tour tickets cost 100 AED for adults and 50 AED for children. You can pick up your tickets at the Souk Abra stations. For booking your Abra ride and more details about this ride, click here.
You can play a little trick and save money on the Abra ride by requesting a lift to go eat at Pai Thai. The same idea can be used to get back to one of the hotels. The only downside here is that the Abra will not stop at the coveted photo spot.
Go Tanning at Jumeirah Beach
Bring the beach baby in you alive by heading to Jumeirah beach. When at this beach, roll out on the sand and soak yourself in the sun. Take along a good book and lose yourself to the beauty of this beach and its immediate surroundings.
What’s more, the premium view of the Burj Al Arab that stands tall in the background.
If you feel hungry, fret not, there are some amazing restaurants by the beach. You can try some soul-satisfying options at these restaurants.
Check Out All Our Guides to Beaches in Dubai
Head to Wild Wadi Water Park
Water parks are fun especially when you are away on a long, relaxing holiday. When at Souk Madinat Jumeirah make sure you take out time to visit the Wild Wadi Water Park.
If you’re a guest at one of the Jumeirah hotels, then access to this water park will be free for you. Nevertheless, exciting offers are running all around the year, which will make it easy for you to plan a day at this water park.
This iconic water park unveils an array of aquatic adventures that will sweep you off your feet.
Be it the Jumeirah Sceirah slide or the Tantrum Alley, each ride at this water park is thrilling. There is something in store for every age group. If you would like to try your hands at water sports, then you can go surfing at this wet park.
You will not be left hungry when at this water park as a lip-smacking spread of pizzas, burgers and shawarmas await you at the food stalls. Healthier options like salads and smoothies are also available. Children will be delighted to be treated to a tub of popcorn and ice cream at this park.
Workout at Talise Fitness
Holidays are about taking a break from the mundane routine to relax and rejuvenate. And who says you cannot get in a quick workout when on a holiday?
If you are a fitness freak, who is somewhat averse to missing your daily exercise regime then Talise Fitness is where you should be seen next. With the latest state-of-art equipment, you are sure to get a good workout at this gym.
What’s more, are many group classes that you can sign up for and sweat out in a group session.
This luxury wellness spot is worth a visit all thanks to its vibrant indoor and outdoor workout spaces.
Go Shopping at Souk Madinat
When at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, you must get your dose of retail therapy. You will most definitely have a worthwhile shopping experience here.
Glimpses of Dubai’s rich cultural heritage can be spotted in every second item that you pick at this souk. Let us not forget the upbeat aura of this market.
Right from aromatic perfumes to fragrant spices, Persian carpets, Turkish pottery, and shimmering jewellery pieces, all this and more welcome you at this bazaar.
If you have not yet experienced the feel of an ancient marketplace, then Souk Madinat Jumeirah should be at the top of your wish list.
Madinat Theatre
On your visit to Souk Madinat Jumeirah, experience much more than just a shop and dine adventure. You can add entertainment to your visit by catching a show at the Madinat Theatre.
This theatre sits at the heart of Souk Madinat Jumeirah. At any given time, this theatre can comfortably house about 440 viewers.
Be it Russian ballet performances, stand-up comedy gigs, pantomimes, or heart-stirring musicals, this and much more are waiting to be explored at this theatre.
You can either get the show tickets at the Box Office or book them online at the theatre’s official website.
Taste the Nightlife
Even though Souk Madinat Jumeirah has a lot to offer during the day, the vibe of this place gets much more vibrant and energetic post-sunset.
You can witness the beautiful lighting once the gardens light up and the Burj Al Arab shimmers in the background.
If you are someone who loves to party, then there are many lounges and nightclubs that you can visit at the souk. Each of these places has a different attraction attached to it.
Multiple weekly promotions run at these clubs such as Ladies Night and Steak Night. Likewise, you can also get a real-time karaoke experience at these clubs.
Eat With a View!
Madinat Jumeirah is filled with many fantastic restaurants. Whether you want a quick bite in the centre taking in the beautiful Arabian buildings or something a bit more up-market with great views, there’s something for everyone here.
Popular Restaurants at Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Having wonderful food on your plate is one of the most important criteria to have a good time in Dubai.
Trattoria Toscana
A restaurant that stands out for its ambiance is none other than Trattoria Toscana. This eatery has an equally amazing outdoor and indoor seating arrangement that you can choose from.
This place serves authentic Italian cuisine with a touch of Mediterranean flavors to it. This restaurant is famous for its pizzas, Tiramisu, and mocktails. It would cost around AED 320 for two people to dine here.
Pierchic
If you are interested to go on a romantic dinner date that promises an “over the water” dining experience, then Pierchic is the restaurant you should be heading to. This place is a perfect pick for all the seafood lovers out there.
You will end up spending around AED 1200 for 2 people without alcohol at this eatery. This multiple award-winning restaurant stands out for its first-rate food quality, taste, and service level.
Trader Vic’s
How can you miss out on the creators of the world-famous Tiki Puka Puka – Trader Vic’s. If you plan to dine at this multi-cuisine restaurant, you will have to spend around AED 400 for two people without alcohol.
You can munch on some crispy fries, cheese balls, cocktails, steak, and drinks on your visit to Trader Vic’s. This place is home to some of the warmest and efficient bartenders, happy hours, and of course Latin Music.
The Noodle House
Be it wasabi prawns, Peking duck, Pad Thai, or Thai Green Curry, this and much more can be tasted at The Noodle House. It would cost around AED 260 for two people to have a filling meal at this restaurant.
Let us also mention the breathtaking ambiance of this restaurant, which makes it a perfect place for you to spend some quality time with your family and friends. It is merely at a distance of 5 minutes from the beach.
The Meat Co
If you have a thing for steaks, then The Meat Co will end up becoming a restaurant of your liking. This restaurant is popular for its excellent steaks that are unique in taste, texture, and cooking style.
Dining at The Meal Co will cost around AED 500 for two people without alcohol. This restaurant boasts of an intimate seating arrangement coupled with an awesome atmosphere and view.
Best Hotels Near Madinat Jumeirah
In and around Madinat Jumeirah, you will be bombed with a hoard of amazing hotels to book your accommodation. Check out the ones we listed here.
Jumeirah Mina A’Salam
A boutique-style hotel that is located at a distance of 1km from the Jumeirah Public Beach is Jumeirah Mina A’Salam.
An outdoor pool, waterpark, and restaurants welcome you to this hotel. Each of these restaurants has a distinct theme, ambiance, and style on display.
Burj Al Arab is located at a distance of about 700 meters from this property, while Sufouh Beach is 2.3 kilometers away. You can enjoy complimentary shuttle services to Wild Wadi Waterpark, Madinat Jumeirah, and Jumeirah Beach Hotel during your stay at this hotel.
Check Prices of Jumeirah Mina A’Salam
Jumeirah Al Qasr & Talise Spa Madinat Jumeirah
You can experience complete relaxation and rejuvenation by planning a staycation at Jumeirah Al Qasr and avail the Talise Spa Madinat Jumeirah. This place promises a luxurious spa experience.
A variety of massages, body experiences, facials, and signature treatments wait to be explored at this property. One highlight feature of Talise’s spa treatments is that they are customized to suit an individual’s needs.
Spa sessions at this Talise are designed in such a manner that they set you on a path of self-discovery by tapping on your body, mind, and soul. A wholesome wellness experience is guaranteed at this property.
Check Prices of Jumeirah Al Qasr
Jumeirah Al Naseem
If a luxury beachfront hotel excites you, then Jumeirah Al Naseem is where you should be getting yourself booked. This hotel is a 7-minute walk from the Wild Wadi Water Park.
This property is home to a private beach, spa, and restaurants, where you can have a time of your life with your family and friends.
Mall of Emirates is about 2.4 kilometers away from this property, while Galleria Shopping Mall is at a distance of 10 kilometers.
Check Prices of Jumeirah Al Naseem
Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf
Get a chance to reside in tasteful summerhouses by heading to Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf. Gardens, pools, waterways, and the resort’s private beach, you name it and you will have it at this hotel.
This property offers a free shuttle service to Wild Wadi Waterpark and Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
It is time to get a traditional dining and retail experience by choosing to stay at this hotel.
Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a mere 10 minutes stroll from Souk Madinat Jumeirah. This 5-star property has a private beach and about 10 restaurants and bars.
You can take a dip in one of the 5 swimming pools hosted by this property. This hotel also has a rooftop lounge, where you get a chance to refresh yourself.
Most tourists enjoy staying at this property because of its spacious rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows looking over the Arabian Gulf.
Your visit to Dubai will remain incomplete if you end up excluding Souk Madinat Jumeirah from your itinerary. Even though most people see this bazaar merely as a shopper’s paradise, there is much more than just this at this marketplace.
This place offers an all-round cultural experience that you will find hard to leave behind in Dubai. You are sure to bring back with you some extremely cherished moments and beautiful memories about Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
Check Prices of Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
One of the most iconic beach hotels in Dubai. Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a popular one amongst families.
World-class dining and kids’ facilities as well as beautiful sea views make this hotel one of the most sought-after stays in Dubai. Madinat Jumeirah is just a short 10-minute stroll in the sun away from this incredible hotel. Once you’re done at Madinat Jumeirah head back and enjoy the 10 restaurants and bars and 5 swimming pools!
Check Prices of Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Burj Al Arab
How can we forget the most iconic hotel in the world? Yes, we are talking about Burj Al Arab.
In order to define how exceptional is this hotel, it is rumoured to be a 7-star hotel in the world. If your pocket can afford it, it’s more than worth a stay here.
If you can stomach around $20,000 for a night, treat yourself to the Royal Suite, which comes with a Rolls Royce chauffeur service from Dubai Airport, cinema room, butler service and more.
Of course, you are also able to opt for a more affordable standard room too!
Conclusion
Like most places in Jumeirah, The Souk Madinat is an absolute must when visiting Dubai. Whether you are keen to browse the Arabian souks or you fancy a nice dinner with a gorgeous backdrop, you absolutely have to visit.
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