Deemed the shopping capital of the world, Dubai is a treasure trove for shoppers. From towering malls with designer labels to bustling souks overflowing with treasures, there’s something for everyone. Whether you crave a wardrobe refresh or a unique memento or are wondering what to buy in Dubai, this guide will navigate you through the city’s souvenir landscape, ensuring you find everything on your shopping wishlist.
Quick Jumplinks
Wondering what to buy in Dubai? Read on…
Dates
✨ Where To Buy | ✦ Supermarkets for packed dates ✦ Deira Food Market for fresh dates |
Dubai residents are big fans of dried fruits, especially dates. The region’s high-quality dates have become a hit with tourists as well. These versatile treats can be enjoyed in many ways: eaten plain, baked into pastries, paired with coffee, turned into refreshing drinks, or even given as gifts during Ramadan. Popular varieties include Kholas, Sokari, and Madjool.
Gold
✨ Where To Buy | ✦ Dubai Gold Souk | Find on map ✦ Gold and Diamond Park | Find on map ✦ Joyalukkas Jewellery | Find on map |
Dubai’s famed gold boasts unmatched craftsmanship and purity. From delicate 18K pieces to opulent 24K wonders, the city’s gold souks overflow with dazzling designs. Intricate Arabic motifs, sleek contemporary styles, or timeless classics – there’s something to captivate every taste and budget. Take home a luxurious memento that captures the essence of this unforgettable cosmopolitan haven.
Oudh & Bakhoor
✨ Where To Buy | ✦ Dubai Mall | Find on map ✦ Nakheel Mall | Find on map ✦ Ibn Battuta Mall | Find on map |
Oudh is a type of agarwood oil derived from the resin of Southeast Asian agar trees. Prized for its luxurious fragrance, it comes in various forms like pure oil, mixed oil blends, floral oil combinations, and perfume scents. Bakhoor is a type of incense made from wood chips, resins, essential oils, and oudh. If you’re wondering what to buy in Dubai, both oudh and bakhoor are popular souvenirs used as substitutes for air fresheners, candles, and incense.
Camel Milk Chocolate
✨ Where To Buy | ✦ Al Nassma Chocolate Shop | Find on map |
If you’re looking to know what to buy in Dubai, look no further than Camel Milk Chocolates! Originally a Dubai exclusive, these decadent treats are now making their way to Europe and Asia. You’ll find original camel milk chocolates at Al Nassma, featuring a variety of flavors like macadamia, creamy whole milk, and even a special “Arabia Spice” blend.
Spices
✨ Where To Buy | ✦ Spice Souk | Find on map |
Dubai is a major spice trading center, and you can find a wide variety of spices here from cumin, coriander, saffron, and turmeric to more exotic spices like sumac, za’atar, and baharat. Spices are a great way to add flavor to your food, they come at fair prices and they also make for great souvenirs. Moreover, they’re a sensory reminder of Dubai’s cultural heritage.
Pashmina Shawls
✨ Where To Buy | ✦ Textile Souk | Find on map ✦ Pashmina House | Find on map ✦ Karama Market | Find on map |
Pashmina shawls are a luxurious and versatile accessory that can be dressed up or down. They are made from the wool of the Changra goat, which is found in the Himalayas, and come in various designs, colors, and patterns. Pashmina shawls are a great way to add a touch of exoticism to your wardrobe. By owning a pashmina shawl, you’re declaring your fashion statement as timeless.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to buy in Dubai?
- Gold: Dubai is a global hub for gold, particularly in the Deira Gold Souk. You can find a wide variety of designs at potentially lower prices than elsewhere.
- Dates: Dates are a staple in Emirati cuisine and come in a vast selection, from fresh to filled with nuts and chocolates.
- Spices: The Spice Souk offers an assault on the senses with colorful displays of spices from around the world.
- Luxury Goods: Dubai boasts numerous malls with high-end designer brands at potentially competitive prices, especially during sales like the Dubai Summer Surprises.
- Electronics: The latest electronics are often available at competitive prices in Dubai.
What to buy in Dubai if on a budget?
- Camel Milk Chocolate: A unique and delicious souvenir.
- Arabic Attar (Perfumes): Created with fragrant oils and sometimes mixed with incense.
- Coffee: Dubai has a rich coffee culture, with many local roasts available.
- Pashmina Shawls: Soft and luxurious shawls, perfect for cooler evenings or as gifts.
Are there any duty-free shops in Dubai?
Absolutely! Dubai Duty-Free is a shopper’s paradise, offering tax-free deals on a wide range of products upon arrival in Dubai.
What are some things to consider when shopping in Dubai?
- Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in souks, but not in malls.
- Currency: The local currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). Be sure to exchange your currency or use a credit card with good exchange rates.
- Opening Times: Malls typically have longer opening hours than souks, which may close for prayer times.
- What to pack: Dubai’s climate is hot and sunny, so pack light, breathable clothing. For souks, it is respectful to cover your shoulders and knees.