Here is a little confession — we recently came across something great at the big local market (no secrets, it is the smoked mackerel), and going there quickly turned into a weekly ritual. A few visits in, we realised the market had so much more to offer than just my favourite treat. Turns out, a good market run can be affordable, fun, and even a little therapeutic. So here I am, sharing the experience — and a few life hacks to go with it!

The Waterfront Market is a modern setup built on the site of the old Deira Fish Market, right along the waterfront — which means you can enjoy a walk along the promenade during the cooler season. It may look neat and tidy these days, but the atmosphere inside still feels refreshingly authentic. No designer handbags or fancy outfits — just locals going about their business and people haggling at the stalls.

The market is open pretty much 24/7, with a short cleaning break on Fridays (12:30–2:30 pm) and Saturdays (2:00–4:00 pm).

Best time to go? Weekends! The vibe is livelier, and the stalls tend to offer more variety. Plus, weekday evenings can get quite busy with traffic.

Important note: It is all pretty old-school when it comes to payment — most stalls only accept cash. There are a few ATMs around if needed, but it is best to come prepared with cash — or at the very least, don’t forget your bank card.

Personal tip: If you are planning a proper shop, wear something casual. Every time we come back home, our clothes smell like fish — no surprise, considering how much time we spend by the prawns.

The fruit section here is one of the biggest — almost as large as the fish area. So here you will find everything from everyday salad vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers to something a bit more exotic, like cactus fruit or dragonfruit.

A few quick tips from a regular:

Important note: If my husband were writing this, he would 100% tell you to try the cactus fruit. Personally, I wasn’t that impressed — but here is the main thing: don’t assume it has been cleaned of the little needles. Spoiler: it hasn’t. (I learned the hard way so you don’t have to!)

The fish section is the pride of the Waterfront Market — but what makes it even better is Yaha, a little restaurant right next to it where they will cook your freshly bought fish exactly how you like it (I always go for the giant prawns with lemon!) It is a lovely, down-to-earth spot — maybe not ideal for a first date, but perfect for a laid-back Sunday outing.

A few quick tips from a regular:

Personal tip: If the fish area is your first stop and you are planning to spend another hour or so at the market, grab an insulated cool bag with ice (it is coming around 10 AED) to keep everything fresh on the way home.

Personal tip: Clean your prawns and fish on the spot. The cleaning area is connected to the fish section on one side, and for just 3 AED + VAT, they will sort it for you.

This is the place to be for anyone with a sweet tooth. And from what I have noticed, it is also the calmest part of the market — no one is shouting prices or waving products in your face. They know you will come over anyway.

A few quick tips from a regular:

Important note: The meat is very fresh (if you know what I mean), so if you are a bit sensitive about these things, just a heads-up.

Personal tip: Even if some shops look a bit plain or basic, don’t skip them! You will sometimes stumble across something absolutely lovely and (yes, I am saying it again) authentic.