Dubai is famous for its burgeoning skyscrapers and beautiful streets. The nightime is special as the tempting sun sets and the lights pop up. There is the Dubai Frame, Dubai Mall, Museum of the Future and many more top things to do in Dubai.
There is one more part of Dubai that is quite underrated and equally stunning. This part tightly embraces the Emirati culture and must be explored on your trip. But is there an option to see this region in all its glory and not burn a hole in our pockets at the same time?
Run by a team of enthusiastic local guides, called storytellers or cultural ambassadors, Heritage Express in Dubai offers a range of experiences to its customers. These include culture-centric sightseeing, culinary explorations, story sessions and fun for the entire family.
Heritage Express: Popular experiences and prices
1. Public Tours
a. The Emirati Hospitality Experience
Starting price for adults: Dh250
Days: Monday to Sunday
Duration: 4 hours
– Tour around old Dubai in all its glory in a traditional trolley
– Pass by historical landmarks, such as Al Fahidi neighbourhood, Al Seef, Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai Abra, Al Shindagha, Etihad Museum: Union House and Jumeirah Mosque Majlis
– Full Emirati buffet (vegetarian and vegan options accessible)
– Free entry to Jumeirah Mosque Majlis and Once Upon a Time Museum
– Opportunity to ask questions and learn about the UAE history and Emirati traditions
Learn more about the experience here
b. The Emirati Hospitality Experience (VIP)
Starting price for adults: Dh500
Days: Monday to Sunday
Duration: 4 hours
– Tour around old Dubai in all its glory in a traditional trolley
– Pass by historical landmarks, such as Al Fahidi neighbourhood, Al Seef, Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai Abra, Al Shindagha, Etihad Museum: Union House and Jumeirah Mosque Majlis
– Full Emirati buffet (vegetarian and vegan options accessible)
– Free entry to Jumeirah Mosque Majlis and Once Upon a Time Museum
– Opportunity to ask questions and learn about the UAE history and Emirati traditions
– Professional photography and videography
Learn more about the experience here
c. The Emirati Hospitality Experience (GOLD)
Starting price for adults: Dh1,000
Days: Monday to Sunday
Duration: 4 hours
– Tour around old Dubai in all its glory in a traditional trolley
– Pass by historical landmarks, such as Al Fahidi neighbourhood, Al Seef, Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai Abra, Al Shindagha, Etihad Museum: Union House and Jumeirah Mosque Majlis
– Full Emirati buffet (vegetarian and vegan options accessible)
– Free entry to Jumeirah Mosque Majlis and Once Upon a Time Museum
– Opportunity to ask questions and learn about the UAE history and Emirati traditions
– Pick-up and drop-off in Dubai
– Heritage Express goodie bag
– Flexible timing and custom itinerary
Learn more about the experience here
2. Schools
Starting price for adults: Dh150
Days: Monday to Sunday
Duration: 3 hours
– Tour around one of the best parts of Dubai in a vintage trolley
– Opportunity to learn about the desert lifestyle
– Interact and feed camels
– Meet a Bedouin inside Bedouin tent
– En Route Games on the Heritage Express trolley for more fun
– Tour topics tailored to students’ ages and curriculums
– Heritage Express gifts
Learn more about the experience here
3. Corporates
Starting price: Dh2,000 for 10 adults
Days: Monday to Sunday
Duration: 2 hours
– Pick-up and drop-off from any office location in Dubai
– Private VIP Heritage Express trolley for private meetings
– Emirati refreshments such as premium dates and coffee
– Internet for seamless presentations
– 4K UHD Screen and sound system
– Emirati cultural buffet, media coverage (photography and videography) and a private Emirati house venue upon choosing the premium and gold packages
Learn more about the experience here
Heritage Express: Celebrate Ramadan in Dubai
Dubai adopts a distinct atmosphere during the holy month of Ramadan. Considered the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan sees Muslims in different countries practicing fasting or ‘siyam’ and engaging in charitable acts.
Muslims abstain from eating or drinking from the sunrise prayer to the sunset prayer. Before the sun rises, they eat a fulfilling meal called ‘Suhoor’. Later on, after the sunset, they break their fast as they eat another meal called ‘Iftar’.
Last year, Heritage Express invited its customers to take a unique trip during Ramadan in Dubai. People enjoyed delicious Iftar meals, engaged in fascinating activities, and explored Emirati culture and traditions.
Heritage Express: Emirati Cultural Iftar Programme
It is not mandatory to gather together for Iftar during Ramadan. But there is a special thing about joining family and friends at the time of breaking the fast. Sharing the meal fosters a sense of unity and togetherness.
In Dubai, one of the excellent options to consider is the Emirati Cultural Iftar Programme. Last year, Heritage Express served as a guide to the heart and soul of Emirati culture. This programme brings people closer to the unique atmosphere during Ramadan in Dubai.
Throughout the programme, customers are encouraged to ask questions about the holy month. They are also offered traditional and refreshing beverages, in addition to the Iftar meal. Keep an eye out for more details about the 2025 Ramadan Iftar programme.
Heritage Express: Frequently asked questions
1. What to expect during The Emirati Hospitality Experience?
Customers are required to confirm their booking at the reception in Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding. Depending on the time of the experience, you might start the bus tour first or the Emirati cultural buffet.
People opting for the GOLD experience package can enjoy customisation to their liking. It means that you can either start the tour first or have the buffet at the beginning. This package offers an exclusive booking of the Heritage Express trolley and Emirati house.
2. Is the Heritage Express bus wheelchair friendly?
Yes. The Heritage Express bus can accommodate up to a couple of wheelchairs. Emirati houses have ramp access for added comfort.
3. Can I get a full refund after cancelling my Heritage Express booking?
For a full refund, you need to cancel at least 24 hours prior to the start date of the experience.
4. Does Heritage Express offer free admission?
Yes. Heritage Express offers free admission for infants aged 0-5 and People of Determination.
5. Is there an age limit to experience Heritage Express?
No. The Heritage Express experience is suitable for people of all ages.
6. Does Emirati cultural buffet at Heritage Express include options?
Yes. The Emirati cultural buffet offers both vegetarian and vegan options.
7. Is the Emirati Moving Meeting Majlis or corporate experience accessible for all?
Heritage Express is offering its Emirati Moving Meeting Majlis or corporate experience for Dubai offices only. The package provides free admission for People of Determination.
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What makes you a good journalist? Hopefully, I can find a convincing answer to it someday.From Btech in Civil Engineering to pursuing Masters in Journalism and Mass Communication, it has been quite a journey. I have a keen interest in investigative journalism and exploring the latest developments in the Gulf region.
I care about ethical reporting and bringing something new to the table. Overall, if not a writer, I believe I would have been a globetrotter or a pet-sitter.
Email id: shrabani@traveltodubai.ae
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