Dubai is a huge metropolitan city, meaning that you can find practically anything in it! With dozens of neighborhoods that showcase a different side of the city, you can explore diverse cultural experiences from traditional souks to modern skyscrapers.
Dubai is known for its luxurious shopping malls, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches that cater to all types of travelers, which is why Downtown Dubai is one of, if not the most popular neighborhoods in the city. This is where all the glamor happens, from the world-record Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall to entertainment venues like the Dubai Opera. The neighborhood also holds some hidden gems, one of which is the Souk Al Bahar.
About Souk Al Bahar
Souk Al Bahar, which translates to the 'Sailor's Market', is a unique Arabian-esque marketplace in the heart of Dubai. The marketplace features multiple shops, cafes, restaurants, and lounges with views overlooking the waterfront promenade, offering a variety of culinary concepts featuring dishes from around the world.
The marketplace features natural stone corridors, tall archways, mood-enhancing lighting, and Arabian-themed décor. It offers rich tapestries, carpets, intricate handicrafts, eclectic jewelry, culturally-inspired fashion, heady perfumes, furnishings, books, art, and more. Souk Al Bahar is a modern twist on a traditional Middle Eastern marketplace, combining shopping, entertainment, and dining in one.
Location
The area is located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, literally! Accessible through the Dubai Mall walkway, Souk Al Bahar offers a unique blend of the traditional Emirati way of life with modern-day living comforts.
Timings
Souk Al Bahar is a great place to enjoy a night out. The area's timings are:
- From 10:00 am to 1:00 am on Monday to Thursday
- From 10:00 am to 2:00 am on Friday to Sunday
Entry & Parking
Entry to the area is of course free, but what about parking? For the first two hours of your visit, you can enjoy free parking. After that, it's 10 AED per hour, and if you lose your ticket, that's a 250 AED fee. If you'd like to stick around longer to try out the delicious restaurants in the area, you become eligible for two extra hours of free parking!
Dining
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a nice and ambient sit-down, Souk Al Bahar offers countless dining options for you to enjoy!
Abd El Wahab
Abd El Wahab is a Lebanese restaurant that you definitely don't want to miss! Named after the street in Beirut, the restaurant stays true to its Lebanese roots by serving the country's authentic cuisine. With stunning views of the Dubai Fountains and Burj Khalifa, Abd el Wahab provides a dining experience that is both unique and memorable.
Where: 3rd Floor
Contact: 04-423-0988
Timings: From 12:30 pm to 12:30 am
Günaydın
If you're to get a taste of Istanbul in Dubai, then Günaydın is the place to go! This Turkish restaurant started off as just a small butcher shop in 1965 and has now become a one-of-a-kind restaurant with over 40 award-winning branches around the world.
Günaydın Dubai is situated on the waterfront promenade of the beautiful Souk Al Bahar, enchanting guests with spectacular views of the world-famous Dubai Fountain and the Burj Khalifa.
Where: Ground Floor
Contact: 04-554-0700
Timings:
- From 12:00 pm to 12:30 am on Monday to Friday
- From 9:30 am to 12:30 am on Saturday and Sunday
Time Out Market
Time Out Market is easily one of the most popular dining spots in Souk Al Bahar. The market is a popular 43,000 square feet foodie destination in the heart of Downtown Dubai. It offers 17 kitchens, three bars, and a spacious outdoor terrace, making it an ideal hotspot for those who love food and culture.
Where: 3rd Floor
Contact: 04-248-8788
Timings:
- From 12:00 pm to 12:00 am on Sunday to Thursday
- From 12:00 pm to 1:00 am on Friday
- From 10:00 am to 1:00 am on Saturday
The Tap House
The Tap House is a renowned Downtown Dubai gastro pub, offering a wide range of international beers and modern European cuisine. It features stunning views of Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa, live music, sports, quiz nights, and weekly promotions. The Tap House also stocks one of the largest varieties of craft beers in the region, making it perfect for a night out with your friends.
Where: Ground Floor
Contact: 04-425-0009
Timings: From 12:00 pm to 1:00 am
Arabeska
Arabeska Restaurant is a UAE-based brand that offers high-quality international cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. Drawing inspiration from traditional Mediterranean recipes, they have created a contemporary menu that is both approachable and appealing to both locals and tourists. Their unique atmosphere and location in Souk Al Bahar make it feel like home and while also enhancing the cuisine's universal appeal.
Where: 1st Floor
Contact: 04-442-1787
Timings: From 8:00 am to 12:00 am
Shops
After you've enjoyed a delicious meal, it's time for a little retail therapy, and Souk Al Bahar is still the ultimate destination!
Bateel
Bateel offers a premium selection of date varieties, truffles, jams, pastries, sparkling drinks, and traditional gourmet chocolates. The region's rich cultural tradition is reflected in the offerings. Visit Bateel to taste a famous date variety, indulge in a luxurious truffle box, or enjoy the world's only gourmet date experience.
Where: 2nd Floor
Contact: 04-420-0321
Timings:
- From 10:00 am to 11:00 pm on Sunday to Thursday
- From 10:00 am to 12:00 am on Friday and Saturday
Al Rifai
Al Rifai is a leading nut company that is widely recognized for its unwavering commitment to development and innovation. The company takes immense pride and joy in creating breakthrough products that set industry standards and delight customers.
One of the key factors that has contributed to Al Rifai's success is its willingness to take on risky challenges and push the boundaries of what is possible in the nut industry. For instance, the company has gained a reputation for its unique ability to mix and blend fresh nuts to meet the ever-evolving demands of the retail market.
Thanks to its innovative approach and dedication to quality, Al Rifai has become a household name and a trusted source of all things nut-related. Whether you're looking for a tasty snack or a flavorful ingredient for your favorite recipe, you can always count on Al Rifai to deliver the very best.
Where: 2nd Floor
Contact: 04-369-9323
Timings: From 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Arabian Oud
Arabian Oud is a globally renowned fragrance supplier that specializes in Oriental fragrances. The brand is known for its extensive use of high-quality oils and ingredients that are carefully blended to create enchanting fragrances that seamlessly fuse Eastern and Western influences. With a presence in 35 countries and over 900 points of sale, Arabian Oud has established itself as the largest Oriental fragrance supplier in the world. The brand's commitment to excellence is reflected in its flagship stores located in Paris, London, New York, and other prominent cities, where customers can experience the brand's premium fragrances in luxurious settings that showcase its high standards in sales locations and raw materials.
Where: Ground Floor
Contact: 04-362-7011
Timings: From 10:00 am to 12:00 am
Entertainment & Attractions
Of course, a night out isn't complete without some fun and entertainment, which is why you can count on Souk Al Bahar to provide you with unique attractions and experiences.
Kid's Zone
If you'd like the bring the little ones along for the night, you don't need to worry about them getting bored! The area boasts a unique kids' zone that's sure to have the babies occupied for hours. The Kids' Zone offers a variety of entertainment options for families, including a play area, arts & crafts kiosk, read & learn area, and activity room with workshops for children aged 6-12.
Dubai Fountain
You can't come to Downtown Dubai and miss out on the Dubai Fountain show, it simply wouldn't be right. The fountain show features choreographed water jets and lights set to music, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that's completely unforgettable. Although it gets crowded during the shows, being at Souk AL Bahar provides you with a great view away from all the crowds.
Burj Khalifa Laser Show
Similar to the Dubai Fountain show, the Burj Khalifa Laser Show is something you shouldn't miss when you're in the area. The mesmerizing display of lights and lasers against the backdrop of the world's tallest building is truly a sight to behold. It's a unique experience that perfectly complements the grandeur of Dubai's skyline!
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