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Dubai Spice Souk, Dubai is a splendid open air market
positioned adjacent to the Diera Gold Souk.
The aromas
in this place can captivate the senses as one move about
the bustling streets and crammed shops.
The narrow lanes
of Dubai Spice Souk are filled with various Arabic fragrances.
The aroma of cloves, cinnamons, cardamoms and dried
fruits attract the travelers into the market from a
distance.
Although Dubai's Souks aren't as fascinating as others in the arab world,such as marrakenh in morocco or mutrah in oman,they are worth a visit for their bustling atmosphere,the eclectic varity of goods and the traditional way of doing business.
The myriad of souks are located on both banks of the Creek,but predominantly in deira(it's worth exploring both sides if you have the time).you can cross between the two banks of Creek in about ten minutes on one of the many abras(small wooden dhows) that line of Creek;it only costs 50 fils.
Alternatively, most taxi drivers knows where to go if you ask for a specific souk and the fares are reasonable.If you have the time,why not brave the public transport.Bus numbers 5,16,19 and 20
run frequently throughout the day and stop all of the souks,both side of the Creek.
Dubai Spice Souk is a very cordial place. Shopkeepers
are more than willing to guide tourists. They are always
prepared to introduce their wares to customers.
In fact,
it is quite likely that one comes across some rare and
unknown types of spices. Dubai Spice Souk sells spices
imported from all over the Middle East. Kept out in
the open in huge sacks, these spices and dried fruits
are considered to be some of the best buys in Dubai.
A wonderfully different experience,the spice Souk has narrow streets and an aroma so unique,it's like walking into another era.The place seems to have downsized in the past year and the rows of stalls displaying spice laden sacks are fast diminishing.
Although spices are available, a Far eastern influence seems to be setting in ,with integrated shops of cheep eleronic goods and wholesale shoes.Perhaps the slow demise is due to more and more supermarkets suppling a wider range of spices.
Carrfour in deira city center has a separate section with colourful spices on show.the choice is great but the experience is a secondary alternative to that of souk.
The seller at the souk are only too happay to chat endlessly ,advising you on the various spices and herbs.Although most of the stalls have more or less similer stocks,expernsive than anywhere else in the world.
It is wise to visit when the weather is a little cooler in the late afternoon,but for early birds the souks open 07:00-12:00.
They then re-open between 17:00-19:0,every day except friday,when they only open in the afternoon.thrusday and friday evening are the busiest times as this is the weekend for many people.
This is a great time to witness the souk trading at full throttle,but if you are more intrested in exploring at a leisurely place,then these evenings are best avoided.
Worldtravel4indians.com provides information on Dubai
Spice Souk, Dubai and different Shopping Centers in
Dubai.
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