Top 15 things you must buy in Dubai
Dubai, a dazzling metropolis rising from the Arabian Desert in the United Arab Emirates, is a shopper's paradise renowned for its glittering malls and vibrant traditional souks. But beyond the luxury brands and high-end fashion, Dubai offers a treasure trove of authentic Arabian souvenirs and unique items reflecting its rich cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking opulent indulgences, aromatic spices, or handcrafted artifacts, a shopping spree in Dubai promises an unforgettable experience.
To help you navigate this retail wonderland and take a piece of the Middle East home from Dubai, we've compiled a list of the best places and 15 best things to buy to make your Dubai shopping spree truly special. These treasures will not only serve as beautiful reminders of your trip but also offer a glimpse into the soul of this fascinating city in the United Arab Emirates.
Persian Rugs: Weaving Stories of Art and History
Stepping into a carpet shop in Dubai feels like entering a scene from "One Thousand and One Nights." Exquisite Persian rugs, with their intricate patterns and vibrant colors, speak volumes of artistry and history. Hand-woven using techniques passed down through generations, these rugs are more than just floor coverings; they are works of art that tell stories – you can notice them at the Dubai Mall.
Fact: Did you know that a genuine hand-knotted Persian rug can take months or even years to complete? The number of knots per square inch determines the rug's intricacy and value, with some rugs boasting over a million knots!
Average price: Starting from AED 400, with prices increasing for larger sizes, intricate designs, and antique pieces.
Insider Tip: Bargain with the shopkeeper! Negotiating is part of the souk experience and often leads to better prices. Be respectful, enjoy the interaction, and you might just walk away with a beautiful rug at a great deal.
Location: National Iranian Carpets, Persian Carpet House at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, Mirdiff City Centre, Souk al Bahar, Bur Dubai Souk
Gold and Diamond Jewelry: Shimmering in the City of Gold
Dubai, aptly nicknamed the "City of Gold," glitters with a passion for precious metals and gemstones. The Dubai Gold Souk, a labyrinth of shops overflowing with gold, is a sight to behold. Here, you'll find everything from delicate chains and intricate bangles to extravagant necklaces and dazzling diamond rings.
Fact: Dubai's Gold Souk is one of the largest gold markets in the world, with an estimated 10 tons of gold present at any given time. The city's favorable tax policies and strict regulations ensuring quality and purity make it an attractive destination for gold buyers.
Average price: AED 110 per gram for gold, with prices fluctuating based on the daily market rate. Diamonds and other precious stones are also competitively priced.
Insider Tip: Don't be afraid to haggle! Start by offering 50% of the asking price and be prepared to walk away if the shopkeeper won't budge. Often, they'll call you back with a better offer.
Location: Dubai Gold Souk, Gold and Diamond Park, Joyalukkas outlets, various jewelry stores
Pashmina: Wrapped in Luxury and Warmth
For a touch of luxury, invest in a beautiful Pashmina shawl. Woven from the fine undercoat of the Himalayan Changthangi goat, these shawls are incredibly soft, warm, and lightweight.
Fact: Authentic Pashmina is known for its warmth and softness. A true Pashmina shawl can be pulled through a ring, showcasing the fineness of its fibers.
Average price: Authentic Pashmina shawls start from AED 250, with prices increasing based on size, intricacy, and the percentage of silk blended with the cashmere. Viscose shawls, a cheaper alternative, are available for around AED 30.
Insider Tip: Be wary of fakes. Many shops sell shawls labeled as Pashmina that are actually made from cheaper materials like viscose. Look for reputable sellers and ask about the shawl's authenticity.
Location: Pashmina House, Textile Souk, Karama Market, carpet shops
Aladdin Lamps: Illuminating Arabian Nights Dreams
Bring home a piece of Arabian folklore with an Aladdin lamp. These intricately carved brass lamps, often adorned with colored glass or gemstones, evoke the magic and wonder of Arabian Nights tales and are one of the best things to buy in the Middle East. Whether used as a decorative piece or a functional lamp, they add a touch of enchantment to any space.
Fact: The Aladdin lamp is inspired by the tale of Aladdin and the magic lamp from "One Thousand and One Nights," a collection of Middle Eastern folk tales.
Average price: AED 50 and above, with prices varying based on size, intricacy of carving, and materials used.
Insider Tip: Look for lamps made from solid brass for better quality and longevity. The souks often offer a wider variety of designs and styles than modern shops.
Location: Karama Souk, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Al Ras Market
Oudh and Bakhoor: Scents of Arabia
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The intoxicating aroma of Oudh and Bakhoor is synonymous with Arabian culture. Oudh, a precious fragrance oil derived from agarwood, is known for its rich, woody scent, often used in perfumes and incense. Bakhoor refers to the fragrant wood chips that are burned to release their sweet, earthy aroma.
Fact: Oudh is one of the most expensive wood products in the world, with the highest-grade oud costing even more than gold. Its rarity and complex scent make it highly prized in the Middle East.
Average price: Oudh can range from AED 1000 to AED 40,000, depending on its grade and purity. Bakhoor is more affordable, with prices starting from AED 100 and going up to AED 500 for larger packs and premium blends.
Insider Tip: Many perfume shops offer testers, allowing you to sample different scents before making a purchase. Choose Oudh based on your personal preference, as scents can range from woody and earthy to sweet and floral.
Location: Perfume Souk in Deira, Spice Souk, perfume shops
Arabian Coffee and Coffee Pots: A Taste of Tradition
For coffee enthusiasts, Arabian coffee is a must-try. Known for its bold, strong flavor, it's traditionally served black and often accompanied by dates or sweet treats. Enhance your Arabian coffee experience with a "dallah," a traditional coffee pot crafted from copper or brass and often adorned with intricate designs.
Fact: Coffee plays a central role in Arabian hospitality. Offering guests coffee is a gesture of welcome and respect, and the "dallah" coffee pot is an integral part of this tradition.
Average price: Arabian coffee costs around AED 125 per kilo. Traditional "dallah" coffee pots start from AED 20, with prices increasing for larger sizes, ornate designs, and those with silver or gold embellishments.
Insider Tip: Purchase freshly ground Arabian coffee for the best flavor. If buying a "dallah," choose a size that suits your needs, as some are purely decorative.
Location: Dubai Coffee Museum, Dubai Souks, supermarkets for pre-packed coffee.
Lanterns: Casting a Glow on Arabian Nights
Illuminating Arabian homes for centuries, lanterns are more than just light sources; they are works of art. From intricately patterned metal lanterns to colorful glass creations, these lamps add a touch of Arabian Nights magic to any space.
Fact: Lanterns played an essential role in lighting homes and streets before electricity. They were often crafted with intricate designs and embellishments, reflecting the artistry and craftsmanship of the region.
Average price: AED 30 – AED 500, with prices varying based on size, materials used, and intricacy of design.
Insider Tip: Lanterns made from copper or brass with filigree work offer a traditional look. Choose a size and design that complements your home decor.
Location: Dragon Mart, Homes R Us, Karama Souk, souks, lighting stores, home decor shops
Camel Milk Chocolate: A Taste of the Desert
For a uniquely Dubai experience, indulge in camel milk chocolate. Al Nassma, the world's first camel milk chocolate brand, produces a range of exquisite chocolates using locally sourced milk.
Fact: The milk is known for its health benefits, including being high in vitamins, minerals, and antibodies. It is also lower in lactose than cow's milk, making it easier for some people to digest.
Average price: AED 44 – AED 165, depending on the size and type of chocolate.
Insider Tip: Explore different flavors, including plain milk chocolate, dates, macadamia, and spiced Arabia. Al Nassma also offers charming camel-shaped chocolates, perfect for souvenirs.
Location: Al Nassma kiosks at Dubai Mall, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, The Palm, Atlantis, Grand Hyatt, Jumeirah hotels & resorts, Bab Al Shams Hotel, Emirates Towers Hotel, Kempinski, Anantara Hotels & Resorts; duty-free shops; Camelicious camel farm
Traditional Shoes: Stepping into Arabian Style
Walk in the footsteps of Arabian tradition with a pair of traditional shoes. These shoes, adorned with intricate embroidery, beads, or other embellishments, offer a unique and comfortable addition to your wardrobe. From slip-on slippers to closed-toe shoes, there's a style for every taste.
Fact: Traditional Arab shoes are designed to be both stylish and practical, suitable for the region's warm climate.
Average price: AED 50 – AED 100, with prices varying based on materials used and embellishments.
Insider Tip: Ensure you select the right size for a comfortable fit, as traditional shoes may have a different sizing system than Western footwear.
Location: Cloth Souk, Al Karama, Old Souk, traditional markets, dedicated shoe stores
Khanjar: A Blade of Heritage and Beauty
A symbol of Emirati heritage, the Khanjar is a traditional curved dagger can be a best thing to buy as a gift for a Birthday. Often featuring ornate handles made of silver, gold, or precious wood, these daggers are works of art that showcase the craftsmanship of the region.
Fact: The Khanjar is an integral part of traditional Emirati men's attire, worn as a symbol of status and pride.
Average price: AED 100 and above, with prices increasing based on the materials used, intricacy of design, and historical significance.
Insider Tip: Verify the authenticity and quality of the dagger before purchasing. Antique shops and reputable dealers offer certificates of authenticity for valuable pieces.
Location: Yemen Pavilion at Global Village, Mutrah Souk, souks, antique shops
Hookah: Relax and Unwind in Arabian Style
The hookah, also known as a shisha, is a traditional water pipe used for smoking flavored tobacco. A prominent part of Arabian culture, the hookah is often enjoyed in social settings and offers a relaxing and communal experience.
Fact: Hookah smoking has a long history in the Middle East, dating back centuries. Flavored tobacco, known as "shisha," comes in a variety of flavors, from fruity and minty to sweet and spicy.
Average price: AED 50 – AED 370, with prices varying based on size, materials, and intricacy of design.
Insider Tip: Consider the material (stainless steel, glass, etc.) and size based on your preferences. Specialized hookah shops offer a wider range of options than general souks.
Location: Smokers' Centre outlets, Carrefour Hypermarket, Dubai Souks, Naif Souk
Spices of Dubai: A Culinary Journey
Take a culinary journey through Dubai's Spice Souk, where the air is filled with the intoxicating aroma of spices from around the world. Find a vibrant array of spices, including fragrant cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, cumin, turmeric, and much more.
Fact: The Spice Souk in Deira is one of Dubai's oldest and most atmospheric markets. It played a crucial role in the city's history as a trading hub, with spices arriving from India, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
Average price: AED 10 – AED 25 per pack, with prices varying based on the type and quantity of spice.
Insider Tip: Purchase spices from reputable vendors to ensure quality and freshness. Don't be afraid to haggle! Shopkeepers often offer discounts for bulk purchases.
Location: Spice Souk in Deira, supermarkets
Electronic Items: Tech at Competitive Prices
While not traditionally Arabian, Dubai is a popular destination for electronic goods, often offering competitive prices compared to other markets. From smartphones and laptops to cameras and headphones, find the latest tech gadgets at duty-free shops and specialized electronics stores.
Fact: Dubai is a tax-free haven for many products, including electronics. This, combined with the city's status as a global trading hub, makes it a prime location for finding good deals on electronic items.
Average price: Prices vary considerably depending on the brand, model, and specifications of the electronic item.
Insider Tip: Compare prices with those in your home country before making a purchase. Ensure the electronic item has a valid international warranty and is compatible with your region's power supply.
Location: Al Fahidi Street in Bur Dubai, Sharaf DG stores, electronic stores in malls
Precious and Semi-Precious Stones: A Gem of a Find
Dubai is a gem lover's paradise, offering an impressive selection of precious and semi-precious stones. From dazzling diamonds and fiery rubies to serene sapphires and vibrant emeralds, find loose stones or stunning jewelry featuring these precious gems, which might be the best things to buy for a loved one.
Fact: Dubai's gemstone market is strictly regulated, with certificates of authenticity provided for valuable stones. This ensures quality and transparency, making it a trusted destination for gemstone purchases.
Average price: Prices depend on the type, quality, size, and cut of the stone.
Insider Tip: Purchase from reputable jewelers and gemstone dealers to ensure authenticity. Request certification for valuable gemstones and inquire about the stone's origin and treatment.
Location: Reputable jewelry shops, gemstone dealers in Gold Souk, malls
Sweets: Indulging Your Sweet Tooth
No Dubai shopping spree is complete without indulging in the city's delicious Arabian sweets. From the flaky, honey-drenched Baklava to the rich, nutty Maamoul, there's a sweet treat for every palate.
Fact: Arabian sweets are often associated with celebrations and special occasions. Their intricate designs and rich flavors reflect the artistry and culinary heritage of the region.
Average price: AED 50 and above, with prices varying based on the type and quantity of sweets.
Insider Tip: Many sweet shops offer samplers, allowing you to try different varieties before buying. For gifts, choose sweets packaged in beautiful boxes or trays.
Location: Alreef Lebanese Bakery, Al Baba Sweets, The Hummingbird Bakery, sweet shops in souks, specialty dessert stores
We hope our guide on the best things to buy in Dubai will help you on your journey. From traditional souks to dazzling malls, Dubai offers a shopping experience like no other. By exploring these 15 must-buy items, you'll not only find unique treasures to take home from Dubai but also discover a deeper appreciation for the city's rich cultural heritage and contemporary spirit in the United Arab Emirates.
