Old Deira Fish Market

The Deira Fish Market finally closed its doors after almost 60 years of existence. A wonderful, noisy hive of activity, the fish market and its surrounding streets in Old Dubai were the beating heart of the city’s traditional trading district; a multicultural community where generations of disparate nationalities have lived and worked side by side in the markets and souks.

The market itself was a foodie’s – and photographer’s – delight. Once only the stomping ground of savvy residents who snapped up good-quality foodstuffs at rock-bottom prices, the old Deira Fish Market also attracted inquisitive tourists, who revelled in the banter of the market’s quick-to-smile fishmongers, butchers and produce sellers.

Laid out and iced on long tables, the catch of the day was weighed with beautifully traditional weights that resembled antiques before sale to the throngs of customers.

Occupying by far the largest section of the market, the fishmongers offered a wide selection of fresh fish and crustaceans. Laid out and iced on long tables, the catch of the day was weighed with beautifully traditional weights that resembled antiques before sale to the throngs of customers.

Once caught in the shadow of Dubai’s stunningly iconic landmarks, Old Dubai and its fish market increasingly played a starring role in visitors’ itineraries, as it offered an eclectic cultural experience, blending Bedouin heritage with Dubai’s place in history as a trading post between Europe and Asia.