Want to find the freshest seafood available in Dubai? Do not go to the supermarkets with fancy prices and go straight to the Waterfront Market in Deira. Locals go there to buy their groceries, restaurants procure their food ingredients, and food enthusiasts can get lost among rows of sparkling seafood. With more than 800 sellers in one place and more than 260 types of fish available each day,y this isn’t just another marketplace – it’s the food center.
What is Waterfront Market Dubai?
Waterfront Market is Dubai’s largest fresh food market. It’s situated in the historical Deira region in Dubai Creek. The market opened in 2017 and replaced the Deira Fish Market, which had operated since the year 1958. Don’t view it as merely an upgrade. It’s an entire transformative process.
The market is spread across more than 120,000 square feet. It offers two worlds: the traditional Arabian market tradition, mixed with air-conditioned modern comfort. Each day, over 800 vendors sell more than 800 tonnes of products at the market. This isn’t a typo. 800 tonnes per day.
What’s special about it? Fishing boats still transport their fish directly to the market just as they did 60 years ago. Now, you are able to shop in tidy, well-organized places with adequate facilities. Additionally, you can get your fish cleaned free of charge or bring it to any of the restaurants on the water to cook it in the same place. This is the famed concept of market-to-table that all talks about.
Celebrity chefs such as Gordon Ramsay and Nobu Matsuhisa have been here. Why? If you’re in search of the freshest ingredients available within Dubai, this is the place you’ll find them.
Waterfront Market Location and How to Get There
Locating the Waterfront Market is easier than you believe. It is located in the middle of the Deira waterfront near Hamriya Port, where Al Khaleej Road intersects Abu Hail Road. If you’re familiar with the location where the former Gold Souk as well as the Spice Souk are, then you’re right in the area.
Through the Metro (cheapest choice), you can take the Green Line and exit at the Abu Hail or Abu Baker Al Siddique stations. Both stations are a 5- 10 minute walk to the market. You can follow the signage or ask anyone who knows where the market for fish is.
If you’re driving: type “Waterfront Market Deira” into Google Maps or Waze, and you’re off. Parking is free, with more than 2000 spaces within the lower levels. Parking is indeed free in Dubai it’s not often.
With Uber or Taxi By Uber or Taxi: Tell that driver “Waterfront Market” or “Deira Fish Market.” They’ll know precisely which direction to take. The drop-off point is located right next to the central entrance.
The traditional method is to take an Abra (water taxi) to Bur Dubai across the Creek. The cost is AED 1 per person, and it offers you the traditional Dubai feeling. It’s then a quick walk into the marketplace.
Waterfront Market Timings and Best Time to Visit
Here’s the deal with timing – the market sections operate 24/7. Yep, round the clock. But that doesn’t mean you should show up at 3 AM (unless you’re really serious about seafood).
| Day | Market Hours | Restaurant Hours |
| Monday – Sunday | 24 hours | 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| LuLu Hypermarket | 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM | – |
When is the best time to visit?
In the early hours of the morning (6:00 am – 8:00 am) is the time to find the freshest fish. Fishermen deliver their catch to you, and you’ll get the first choice. The prices might be a bit higher as vendors wish to sell their inventory.
Evening hours (6:00 pm – 9:00 pm) are ideal if you desire the complete experience – eating and shopping. The restaurants along the water are bustling as the temperatures cool (especially in the summer). The whole area is a relaxing one.
The weekends are a riot with family gatherings.gs Expect more visitors. Mornings on Fridays that are after the prayer time could be extremely busy.
Tips for summer: The months of summer (June-August) are extremely hot in Dubai. If you’re in Dublin ainthe time of afternoon, you’ll be grateful for the air conditioning. The winter evenings (November-March) are ideal for eating outside in the dining spaces.
What Can You Buy at Waterfront Market?
Let me explain what’s available, since this is a huge venue
Fresh Seafood – The Main Attraction
More than 500 fish and seafood merchants offer 260 different varieties of shellfish and fish here. Around 600 tonnes of fish are traded daily. A majority (70 70 percent) is sourced from UAE waters. The remaining coming by Oman, India, and Pakistan.
Locally-popular fish that you can find all over:
- Hamour (Grouper) Grouper (Hamour) is the most coveted of UAE fish. The flesh is firm and sweet, making it great for grilling and frying. Prices run about AED 25-40 per kg, depending on size.
- King Fish – Large, meaty, perfect for curries. Around AED 30-45 per kg.
- Sultan Ibrahim (Red Mullet) is small but bursting with flavour. Great for grilling whole. It’s about AED 40-60 per kilogram.
- Jesh is also known as Trevally with orange spots. Ideal to grill. AED 20-35 per kg.
Premium seafood section:
- Omani Prawns from Omani (the large ones can be expensive, however, worth the price – AED 80 to 150 per kilogram)
- Fresh lobster (prices differ widely, but you can expect AED 100 to 200 per kilogram)
- Crabs that live in tanks
- Oysters, octopus, squid
- Even live fish swimming in tanks
The auction live on the sea takes place each day, and it’s a treat to be awed by. Traders from all over the world come to compete for the best seafood.
Meat and Poultry
435 stalls of meat sell everything from camels to lamb meat. They are experts in their field. It is possible to select your cuts and then have them prepared precisely how you like them. A few will grill it right in the kitchen at a cost of a few dollars.
Fresh lamb costs around AED 30 to 45 per kilogram. Chicken is less expensive in price at AED 15-25 per kilogram. The meats are Halal-certified.
Fruits and Vegetables
More than 300 vendors offering over 160 different varieties of food. It’s the colors alone that will be worth a trip. You’ll find:
- Local UAE produces such things as dates, mangoes, and figs
- Organic alternatives (growing section)
- Seasonal fruit
- Imports and exotic items you’ll not find at the regular grocery store.s
- The leafy greens, herbs, as well as spices
The prices beat the majority of supermarkets. Some vendors will let you try before buying. This is entertaining.
Dried Fish and Specialty Items
43 stalls devoted to dried fish (maleh to be precise in Arabic). If you’re interested in traditional Emirati cuisine, this area is a goldmine. More than 50 kinds of dried fish. Also:
- Herbs and spices
- Dry fruit and nuts
- Pickles
- Traditional preserves
Waterfront Market Services and Facilities
These services make shopping much more convenient.
Free Fish Clean-up. It’s huge. Purchase your fish and bring it to the stations for cleaning. The staff will scale it, remove it from the gut, or fillet it, everything you require. No charge. You can get it from Carrefour.
On-site cooking: A few providers offer grilling, cooking, or steaming for very little cost (usually AED 20-50 for a kilogram). Choose your fish, get it cleaned and prepared. Enjoy it in the restaurants along the water.
Market Amenities:
- Wireless Wi-Fi is free (decent speed)
- The washrooms are spotless (important when you are planning a lengthy shopping excursion)
- Prayer rooms
- Multiple ATMs
- Areas for seating when you require an interruption
- Free trolleys are available for shopping
- The Porter is available for purchase in bulk
- Air conditioning is available throughout
The LuLu Hypermarket is a complete 5,000 square meters LuLu Hypermarket within the building. When you’ve purchased the fish and veggies, you’ll have the option of buying additional grocery items too. One-stop shopping.
Waterfront Market Restaurants and Dining
The dining options here are quite amazing. Many cafes and restaurants are located along the water, many with a view of the Creek and the marina. Traditional dhows are docked.
Market-to-Table dining It’s what is what makes Waterfront Market unique. You can purchase your catch from the market, then take it to restaurants participating in the program, where they’ll cook it to your specifications. Pay for the cook-service (usually AED 20-50 per kilogram, depending on the method of preparation) along with any side dishes that you request.
Pick the method of cooking you want to use:
- Spices and grilling
- Fried crisp
- Lemon and lemon juice
- Curry in the style of
- Traditional Arabic preparation
Other dining options: Apart from those that are market-to-table and regular dining establishments, many restaurants serve everything from seafood-based dishes as well as international cuisine. Aylla Seafood Restaurant gets mentioned frequently for its sustainable sources as well as quality.
Bakeries and coffee shops are located all around the city if you need to take a break.
The Sense: Seating outside on the shore is a great option for cooler weather. Enjoy the sunset, watch traditional vessels go by, and dine on food that was in the water just minutes ago. Family members love this place during the weekends.
Waterfront Market Parking and Accessibility
Parking is easy to park to do for the Dubai tourist attraction.
Free Parking: More than 2000 spaces on the parking levels in the basement. No fees, no tickets, no stress. Parking is protected, which means your car is kept cool.
Accessibility: The entire area is accessible for wheelchair users by means of ramps as well as elevators. The wide corridors allow for strollers and wheelchairs. Bathrooms with accessible washrooms at every level. This was a thoughtful idea, especially for families and those needing mobility assistance.
Security cameras and surveillance throughout the house keep everything safe.
Shopping Tips and Tricks at Waterfront Market
Do you want to shop like locals? This is what you should be aware of.
Getting the Best Prices:
Start early. The prices in the morning can be more competitive because sellers want to get their stock out. Compare prices among stalls – really, take a walk. Prices vary from 20%-30% on similar fish.
Bargaining isn’t just ok, it’s expected. Do not be shy. Begin with 60-70% of the price you are asking and work up. Establish relationships with the vendors you are working with in case you intend to visit frequently. They’ll provide better discounts.
Buy in bulk and get better prices. If you’re shopping with your friends or relatives, you can make sure you buy with them.
Quality Checks:
For fish, look for:
- Eyes that are clear and bright (not cloudy)
- The firm flesh bounces back when it is pressed
- Fresh scent (should be similar to the ocean, not fishy)
- Gills are pink or red.
- The scales are shiny and intact.
Be sure to ask whether the fish was caught. A good vendor will be able to tell the truth.
What to Bring:
Cash works best. Most vendors prefer cash; however, some accept credit or debit cards. Use reusable bags, which are greener and less cumbersome to transport. A cooler bag or an ice box will keep your items fresh and cool on your way back, especially during summer.
A shopping list can help to keep you on track. In the event that you’re not careful, you’ll end up seeing everything and be tempted to purchase everything.
Cultural Tips:
Be modest in your attire (it’s an open market in Dubai). Take care when you take photos. Ask vendors before you take photos. Be sure not to handle food items without permission. Be aware of a few Arabic phrases, like “Shukran” (thank you) as well as “Assalamu-alaikum” (peace be on you,) will go a long way.
Take your time during the busy hours in the morning, particularly Friday mornings and evenings on weekends.
Common Mistakes:
Don’t purchase fish without verifying the cost prior to purchase. Make sure to utilize the clean-up service that is free, and it’s an enormous value to. If you’re bringing kids, but not having snacks will cause trouble (there are cafes, however). Do not check to see if your merchant will accept credit cards before buying lotPurchasinging more fresh fish than you’ll need in two days (unless you’re keeping it in a freezer).
Waterfront Market for Tourists
If you’re in Dubai, the place is an experience that you cannot find in malls.
Why Tourists Love It:
It’s the real Dubai. It’s not a tourist destination, however, it’s a real working market, where people shopevery dayy. It will be clear the way Dubai people live and eat. It’s a bargain when compared with hotel dining. Fantastic photo opportunities, without the typical tourists. An insight into the culture of Arabian culinary practices.
Combining with Other Deira Attractions:
Spend a day exploring the past of Dubai:
- Go for a stroll up to The Gold Souk (10 minutes away)
- Visit the Spice Souk
- Ride an abra through the Creek
- Check out the Heritage Village
- Learn more about the Al Seef district
It is easy to create the heritage trail that runs through Deira by using the Waterfront Market as your starting or ending point.
Tourist-Friendly Features:
The majority of vendors are fluent in English or know someone who is. The atmosphere is secure and warm. The facilities are modern (unlike many more traditional markets). It’s easy to find, even if this is your first visit. There is a currency exchange nearby should you require it.
Waterfront Market vs Traditional Souks
How does it compare to Dubai’s famous traditional markets?
| Feature | Waterfront Market | Traditional Souks |
| Environment | Air-conditioned, modern | Open-air, traditional atmosphere |
| Cleanliness | High standards, organized | Varies by location |
| Product Variety | 260+ fish types, 160+ produce varieties | More limited selection |
| Facilities | Restaurants, free parking, clean washrooms | Basic facilities |
| Pricing Style | Fixed prices with bargaining accepted | Heavy bargaining expected |
| Operating Hours | 24/7 for market sections | Limited hours |
| Experience Type | Modern comfort meets tradition | Authentic, rustic feel |
| Parking | Free, 2000+ spaces | Street parking challenges |
Wholesale Shopping at Waterfront Market
Food and restaurant owners, pay attention.
The market handles over 800 tons of food each day. It’s also a significant wholesale hub that supplies restaurants throughout Dubai as well as the UAE. It’s also where Emirates Airlines sources some ingredients from here.
Wholesale Benefits:
Pricing for bulk can be reduced by up to 30% versus retail. The quality is guaranteed due to the fact that you’re directly dealing with the traders. Every day fresh delivery ensures that your stocks never run out. With more than 800 trader options, you can choose from every kind of food. Establish relationships and earn greater deals as time passes.
Tips for Business Buyers:
Start between 7 and 8 AM, in the morning when serious wholesale movement takes place. Create relationships with three or four reliable suppliers for each product category. Place advance orders for large quantities. Be sure to check the quality prior to large-scale purchases. Consider negotiating long-term prices for purchases that you make regularly. Find business cards and direct-dial numbers from the supplier.
A lot of restaurants within Dubai Marina, JBR, and some even fancy restaurants get their ingredients from the Dubai Marina. Its freshness and prices cannot be beat.
Special Events and Festivals
Waterfront Market isn’t just about buying a few things – they also host diverse events and cultural activities during the entire season.
At present they’re hosting the month-long Seafood Festival with:
- Restaurants with special offers
- Live music on weekends
- Bubble shows, face painting, and other entertainment for children
- A unique seafood-themed Christmas tree
- Free goods based on purchases
Some of the past events were:
- UAE National Day celebrations with traditional shows
- Diwali Festivals are marked by particular decorations and deals
- Eid special events
- Demonstrations of cooking by chefs
- Dragon Boat Championships
- Art competitions and murals
Check their social media (@wfm.uae on Instagram) or website (waterfrontmarket.ae) for upcoming events.
Conclusion
Waterfront Market Dubai brings together all the best aspects of traditional and modern Dubai. It is a true market experience of fishermen who bring in daily catch, vendors yelling to announce prices, and the aroma of fresh fish, all also modern conveniences such as air cooling and modern infrastructure.
If you’re a local seeking out the weekly grocery list or a restaurant proprietor who is sourcing ingredients or looking to experience the real Dubai, this place has it all. The selection is unparalleled (260-plus varieties of fish in all.) The prices beat those of supermarkets, and the restaurant-from-the-market concept creates something more than buying.
Be sure to arrive early for the most attractive range and the best prices. Take cash to make it easier for bargaining. Make sure you take advantage of the free clean-up of the fish. Also, if you’re hun, make sure to cook your food in the water at one of the eateries.
It is situated in the heart of Diera, which has free parking as well as convenient metro accessibility. The location is so convenient that there’s nothing to stop you from visiting. Follow the group on Instagram @wfm.uae for the latest specials and other events. You can also go to waterfrontmarket.ae for more information.
Dubai offers a wide array of luxurious shopping malls and other tourist destinations. However, if you’re looking to know what this city eats its food, you should start with Waterfront Market.
FAQ’s
What is Waterfront Market Dubai?
Waterfront Market is Dubai’s largest fresh food market, located in Deira. It was launched in 2017 to replace the former Deira Fish Market and features more than 800 vendors selling fish, meat, fruits, as well as vegetables.
What is the location of the Waterfront Market in Dubai?
It’s situated at the Deira waterfront near Hamriya Port, at the intersection between Al Khaleej Road and Abu Hail Road, and is close to Gold Souk and Spice Souk.
What are the Waterfront Market timings?
The majority of market areas are open 24 hours a day. Restaurants typically open at 10 AM until 12 midnight. The LuLu Hypermarket is open between 8 am and midnight.
Are parking spaces available for free in the Waterfront Market?
Parking is cost-free. The market offers more than 22,000 parking spots spread across the basement levels.
What can I do to reach the Waterfront Market by metro?
Take the Green Line and get off at Abu Hail or Abu Baker Al Siddique Metro Station. The market is 5-10 minutes away between the two stations.
What can you buy at Waterfront Market?
It is possible to purchase fresh seafood, fish and meats and poultry, fruit, as well as dried fish, vegetables, spices, and dry fruit. There are over 260 varieties of fish that are to choose from.
Do they wash fish on a free basis?
Yes, cleaning of fish, such as scaling, gutting, and filleting, is offered for free at designated stations.
Can you eat at Waterfront Market?
Many restaurants provide the market-to-table experience. Fish can be purchased and then have it prepared in nearby eateries for 20-50 AED per kilogram.
Is bargaining allowed in the Waterfront Market?
In fact, bargaining is popular and is expected. Most buyers begin negotiations with 60% to 70% of the cost of the item.
When is the ideal time to be there? Waterfront Market?
Mornings in the early morning (6-8 a.m.) are the best time to get most freshest seafood at the best prices. In the evening (6-9 9 PM) is the best time to dine with a lively and energetic atmosphere.
What is the cost of fish at the Waterfront Market?
The prices vary based on the different types. Hamour typically costs between 25 and 40 AED per kilogram. King Fish AED 30-45 for a kilogram, as well as premium seafood such as big prawns that cost between 80 and 150 AED per kilogram.
Are you sure that the Waterfront Market is family-friendly?
Yes, it’s child-friendly, and clean with restaurants, clean facilities, as well as entertainment on weekends, along with accessible spaces that are safe for children.
Do tourists have the right to go to the Waterfront Market?
Absolutely, it’s advised for those visiting the city. This market provides a true Dubai experience, with English-speaking vendors and fantastic photo opportunities.
What kinds of fish are offered at the Waterfront Market?
There are more than 260 kinds available that include Hamour, King Fish, Sultan Ibrahim, Jesh, lobster, prawns, Octopus, oysters, and Squid.
Are there any stores in the Waterfront Market?
LuLu Hypermarket indeed operates a big store in the mall for groceries.
Last modified: January 12, 2026
