Naif Souk

Whether you’re searching for authentic souvenirs, gifts or bargains, Naif Souk might just be your undiscovered retail paradise. What was once a camel market is now a hub buzzing with activity, especially during the evenings. You must visit during this busy time to experience the excitement and liveliness of the traditional shopping scene.

Among the oldest souks in the city, and not far from similar bazaars by the Deira waterfront, Naif Souk has undergone several renovations over the decades and is currently housed in a spacious two-storey facility with an Arabian-style facade.

What to buy at Naif Souk

Naif Souk's shops are a great general space for a variety of Middle Eastern goods and services such as regional garments, henna designs and hair extensions. It is popular with local women for its selection of abayas. Abaya prices in Naif Souk can vary anywhere from AED40 to AED200 and more - but remember to bargain. For something special, there is a wide range of glamorous full-length dresses to choose from too.

Find great value items including leather goods, textiles, electronics and more. There’s no better marketplace from which to take home little goodies and keepsakes. And, if the weather is good, take a short walk from here to the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of day-to-day life in Deira along the way.

Nearby attractions

Naif Souk has a number of attractions nearby that you can check out – either before or after your shopping excursion. Less than a five-minute walk from the busy souk is Naif Museum, which is an old fort that was once Dubai’s police headquarters and prison. Here, you'll sink deep into the history and development of Dubai’s Police Force, as well as the city’s justice system. If you'd like to check out a more modern mall, then Al Ghurair Centre is a leisurely 20-minute walk away. Slightly further afield (about 25 minutes away by bus) is Deira Clocktower, which is a key landmark signifying the first land-crossing between Deira and Bur Dubai, across Al Maktoum Bridge.

There are plenty of hotels in the vicinity as well – from budget to five-star. For a bit of luxury, check out Hyatt Regency Dubai with beautiful sea views – and a fabulous Japanese restaurant, Miyako, as well as a popular karaoke lounge, Hibiki. Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek is an old favourite – not only does it serve up panoramic vistas of Dubai Creek, it also has restaurants such as Asian hotspot The China Club and Persian eatery Shabestan. In addition to these hotel-based restaurants, Deira is a fabulous neighbourhood to explore the flavours of the city through its street food.  

How to get to and from Naif Souk

Naif Souk's location is very central, but a word of advice – once you’re loaded with shopping bags and ready to head home from Naif Souk, consider an easy commute to your hotel or residence by foot, or from the nearby Baniyas Square metro station, rather than competing for a taxi in this bustling neighbourhood.

Baniyas Square is located on the Dubai Metro's Green Line, and is about a six-minute walk away from Naif Souk. Water taxis are another possibility, taking you across Dubai Creek between Bur Dubai and Deira. 

Please visit rta.ae for detailed public transportation schedules.

Get a preview of your entire trip on Google Maps.

For luxury souvenirs and trinkets from a charming indoor Arabian marketplace, make sure to visit Souk Madinat Jumeirah.