The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri Abu Dhabi
A charming blend of Arabian grandeur and Venetian canals, offering boutique shopping, diverse dining, and scenic Abra boat rides.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical sunset & evening ambiance
The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri Abu Dhabi
Best Time
Magical sunset & evening ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming blend of Arabian grandeur and Venetian canals, offering boutique shopping, diverse dining, and scenic Abra boat rides.
"A peaceful, authentic alternative to busier malls, with stunning architecture and a serene canal-side experience."
🎯 Abra Boat Ride Cost
Enjoy a scenic Abra boat ride for AED 25 per person. Children under 6 travel free!
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
Capture stunning photos, especially during sunset and into the evening when the lighting is magical.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Abra Boat Rides
Canals throughout the Souk
Glide through charming waterways on a traditional Abra boat, offering a unique perspective of the Venetian-Arabian architecture.
Architectural Ambiance
Throughout the Souk
Wander through winding alleyways and admire the stunning fusion of Arabian design with Venetian-style canals.
Boutique Shopping
Various shops
Discover unique fashion, elegant abayas, sparkling jewelry, and traditional crafts in a curated selection of shops.
Canal-side Dining
Restaurants along the canals
Enjoy a meal with picturesque views of the water, offering a serene dining experience.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Venetian-Arabian Charm
Timing is Key for Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Abra Boat Ride Cost
Enjoy a scenic Abra boat ride for AED 25 per person. Children under 6 travel free!
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
Capture stunning photos, especially during sunset and into the evening when the lighting is magical.
🚗 Parking Perks
Underground parking is available and fee is waived with a stamped receipt from any shop.
🍽️ Dining with a View
Savor meals at canal-side restaurants, many with outdoor seating for a tranquil dining experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Abra Boat Ride Cost
Enjoy a scenic Abra boat ride for AED 25 per person. Children under 6 travel free!
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
Capture stunning photos, especially during sunset and into the evening when the lighting is magical.
🚗 Parking Perks
Underground parking is available and fee is waived with a stamped receipt from any shop.
🍽️ Dining with a View
Savor meals at canal-side restaurants, many with outdoor seating for a tranquil dining experience.
🛍️ Unique Shopping Finds
Explore boutique shops for fashion, jewelry, and traditional crafts, focusing on quality over mass appeal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri for its beautiful, well-maintained Venetian-Arabian architecture and tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful alternative to busy malls. The Abra boat rides and canal-side dining are highlights, making it a great spot for photography and relaxed outings. However, some find the number of shops limited and the offerings not a true representation of a traditional souk.
"Lovely souk! It is very well-maintained and air-conditioned; there are nice cafes and a variety of shops. Good spot for photography enthusiasts too."
Kaylen T.
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Beautiful Blend of Culture, Calm, and Class
I recently visited Souk Al Qaryat, and it absolutely exceeded my expectations. Tucked away by the Grand Canal, this hidden gem offers a peaceful, authentic alternative to the busier malls in Abu Dhabi.
The architecture is stunning—you’re instantly transported to an old Arabian village with winding alleyways, wooden accents, traditional lanterns, and charming courtyards. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, breathe, and take it all in.
There are a variety of boutique shops, art galleries, and small stores selling traditional items, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. You can tell the focus here is on quality and culture rather than commercial flash.
Food lovers won’t be disappointed—there are several cafes and restaurants, many with outdoor seating and views of the canal. I had a relaxed dinner by the water, watching the sunset reflect on the surface. The atmosphere was calm, clean, and perfect for a romantic evening or family outing.
One of the best things about Souk Al Qaryat is that it doesn’t feel crowded or rushed. It’s ideal for those who want to escape the chaos and enjoy a more intimate, culturally rich experience. Plus, it’s just a short walk from The Ritz-Carlton, so it’s easy to access if you’re staying nearby.
Tip: Visit just before sunset and stay into the evening—the lighting makes everything even more magical.
Highly recommended for tourists and locals alike. Whether you're looking to shop, dine, or just enjoy a quiet evening stroll by the water, Souk Al Qaryat is absolutely worth your time."
MWK Nirmani
"Beautiful exterior and located in an ideal place, but that’s where the positives end for me. Very few shops, limited offerings and a poor alternative to a traditional souk experience. It is for a certain audience but that didn’t include us."
Jessie & Damian Juman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Souk is located in the Al Maqta area, part of the Shangri-La Hotel complex. You can reach it by taxi or private car. Underground parking is available and can be validated by shops.
While direct public transport routes might be limited, taxis are readily available in Abu Dhabi and can take you directly to the Souk. Consider ride-sharing apps as well.
The Souk is designed with winding alleyways and canals. Walking is the primary way to explore, and the Abra boats offer a unique way to travel between different sections.
Yes, there is underground parking. The parking fee is typically waived if you get your ticket stamped by one of the shops you visit.
Yes, The Souk is a short walk from The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi, making it easily accessible for guests staying in the vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to The Souk itself is generally free. You only pay for specific activities like the Abra boat rides or purchases within the shops and restaurants.
The Souk typically operates during standard mall hours, usually from late morning to late evening. It's best to check their official social media or website for the most current hours, especially for specific shops or restaurants.
Yes, there is a fee for the Abra boat rides, which is AED 25 per person. Children under 6 years old can ride for free.
The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri often hosts various events and activities, especially during weekends and holidays. It's advisable to check their social media for announcements.
Most shops and restaurants within The Souk accept credit cards. However, for the Abra boat rides, it's recommended to have cash as some vendors might prefer it.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a variety of boutique shops selling fashion, luxury items, elegant abayas, jewelry, traditional crafts, and souvenirs.
While it focuses on boutique and traditional items, you can find some top global brands mixed in, offering a curated shopping experience.
There are several cafes and restaurants, including Ushna for Indian cuisine, offering a range of international and local dishes with canal views. +1
Yes, it's a great place to find unique souvenirs, traditional items, and handmade crafts that reflect local culture.
Yes, places like Maven Cafe are recommended for a coffee break with nice views of the water.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The unique Venetian-Arabian architecture, winding canals, and beautiful lighting, especially at sunset, make it a photographer's paradise.
Visiting just before sunset and staying into the evening offers the most magical lighting. The golden hour and twilight provide stunning opportunities.
The bridges over the canals, the traditional lanterns, and the reflections on the water are all excellent subjects for photography. The Abra boats themselves also make for great shots.
Yes, you can take photos while on the Abra boats, offering a unique vantage point of the souk and its surroundings.
While it can get busy, especially on weekends, it's generally less crowded than major malls, allowing for more relaxed photography sessions. Visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours can further reduce crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the shopping might lean towards more adult tastes, the unique architecture and the novelty of the boat rides provide plenty of entertainment. There are also dining options that cater to various palates, ensuring everyone in the family can find something they enjoy. It's a great place for a relaxed family outing without the overwhelming crowds of larger attractions.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The best time to visit for photography is undoubtedly around sunset. The golden hour light casts a warm glow over the entire souk, and as dusk settles, the lanterns begin to illuminate, creating a magical ambiance. Capturing the reflections on the water adds another layer of beauty to your shots.
couples
Opt for a canal-side dinner at one of the restaurants, perhaps with outdoor seating, to enjoy a meal with a beautiful view. The Abra boat ride at sunset is also a perfect romantic activity, offering a unique and memorable experience together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Venetian-Arabian Architecture
+1The design aims to evoke the feeling of an old Arabian village while incorporating the serene flow of water, a key feature of Venetian cities. This unique aesthetic makes it a standout destination in Abu Dhabi, offering a tranquil and picturesque setting that is a stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers elsewhere in the city. It's a place where you can truly slow down and appreciate the artistry.
This architectural approach not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the overall atmosphere. The souk feels intimate and well-maintained, providing a peaceful escape for visitors. It’s this thoughtful design that draws many to explore its nooks and crannies, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a culturally rich experience.
Experiencing the Abra Boat Rides
The Abra rides typically start from points near the Shangri-La or Traders hotels and ferry passengers around the waterside complex. For a small fee of AED 25 per person, you can enjoy a leisurely trip, taking in the sights of the Arabian architecture and lush gardens from a different perspective. It's a relaxing activity that appeals to both locals and tourists, offering a moment of calm amidst the shopping and dining.
This experience is particularly recommended for families, as children under six often ride for free, making it an affordable and enjoyable outing. The gentle movement of the boat and the scenic views create a memorable experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the souk's design and ambiance from the water.
Shopping and Dining Delights
When it comes to dining, the souk boasts several restaurants and cafes, many of which are situated along the canals, offering delightful views. Ushna, an Indian restaurant, is frequently highlighted for its delectable cuisine and memorable culinary adventures, providing a taste of India in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
Beyond specific restaurants, visitors can enjoy a relaxed meal or coffee at various establishments, with options for outdoor seating that enhance the tranquil atmosphere. The focus here is on a more intimate and quality-driven experience, whether you're browsing for goods or enjoying a meal by the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit