While the term “Souk Duba” may evoke the vibrant traditional markets of old Dubai—such as Al Souk Al Kabir in Bur Dubai—these souks represent the culmination of millennia-old trading practices. In this article we explore Dubai’s historical trajectory, its evolution as a trade nexus, and include a dedicated examination of its ancient and modern trade relations with Central Asia, drawing on authentic sources to trace these links as far back as possible. Iconic souks emerged: Al Souk Al Kabir (1890s) for textiles and gold; Spice Souk (early 1900s) for saffron and frankincense; Gold Souk (1940s) for jewelry; Textile Souk for fabrics. By the 2nd century BCE, the Silk Road amplified connections, with Central Asian horses, silk, and jewelry reaching the Middle East via branches through Persia, though maritime extensions (e.g., Central Asian Maritime Silk Routes via the Caspian and Transcaucasia) had limited Gulf ties. Initiatives like the “New Silk Road” reimagine ancient routes, with DP World projects in Central Asia echoing historical exchanges.