Shopping in Dubai: What to Buy, Where to Buy from

February 28, 2024, 03:16 PM
by Farhana Afrose Rini

UNB News
Publish- February 28, 2024, 03:16 PM
Farhana Afrose Rini
Update- February 28, 2024, 04:21 PM

Shopping in Dubai: What to Buy, Where to Buy from

Wafi City, Dubai

Dubai, known as the City of Gold, is strategically located at the crossroads of continents, making it a melting pot of diverse cultures. Known for its iconic skyline and extravagant lifestyle, Dubai is a paradise for avid shoppers seeking the finest goods on earth. Let's delve into the most renowned shopping destinations and uncover the treasures that make Dubai a shopper's dream.

What to Buy from Dubai

Gold and Diamond Jewellery

Dive into Dubai's opulence as the "City of Gold" lives up to its name. You may explore the Gold Souk and esteemed jewellery stores for a dazzling array of exquisite gold, diamond, and platinum jewellery at tax-friendly prices. Do not miss the chance to bring home a beautifully designed and reasonably priced gold piece, a quintessential Dubai souvenir.

Gold Souk, Dubai

Precious and Semi-Precious Stones

If you have passion for precious stones, then Dubai is the right place for shopping. Dubai offers a market for premium diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and an array of semi-precious stones. Whether opting for loose stones or adorned in jewellery, the city provides a selection of high-quality gemstones for discerning buyers.

Arabic Attar

You can immerse yourself in the essence of Dubai with Arabic Attars, exquisite perfume oils desired for their aromatic allure. Distilled from plant sources, these alcohol-free oils offer a range of scents, personalised by vendors. A traditional and fragrant souvenir, perfect for a sensory journey in Dubai.

Oudh and Bakhoor

You may find the iconic aromas of Dubai with Oudh and Bakhoor. Crafted from Southeast Asian agarwood, Oudh offers an expensive yet uniquely pleasant fragrance. Bakhoor, the burned chips of agarwood, provides an equally delightful aroma. Ideal as a special gift, these distinct scents capture the essence of traditional Dubai.

Arabian Coffee and Coffee Pots

Individuals can indulge their coffee cravings with the bold taste of Arabian coffee, a delightful Dubai purchase for coffee enthusiasts. You can take home the authentic experience, accompanied by traditional Arabic-style coffee pots, locally known as "dallah." Made from copper, some adorned with gold and silver, these pots serve both functional and decorative purposes.

Persian Rugs and Carpets

You can elevate your home's elegance with the timeless beauty of Persian rugs and carpets, a quintessential Dubai purchase. Handcrafted options, though pricier, showcase intricate designs and fine detailing. Customisation is also offered, ensuring a perfect fit for your space. An investment in beauty and class.

Pashmina Shawls

Elevate your style in Dubai with a luxurious Pashmina shawl, crafted from goat hair blended with silk. It is necessary to ensure authenticity of this fine product by checking its ability to pass through a ring. While genuine Pashmina may be a splurge, silk or viscose alternatives offer affordable elegance.

Arabian Dates

You may enjoy the natural sweetness of Dubai's exquisite dates, a perfect power snack and souvenir. With over 20 varieties, including Sokari, Kholas, and Madjool, these nutrient-rich gems offer instant energy and Middle Eastern tradition in every bite.

Arabian Spices

Transform your dishes with the magic of Dubai's local spices, a flavourful and affordable souvenir. This item is ideal for cooking enthusiasts or as a thoughtful gift from a Dubai tour as these aromatic spices capture the essence of Dubai's culinary allure.

Arabic Lanterns and Lamps

The magical world of Aladdin with Arabic lanterns can be a perfect Dubai purchase for home decor enthusiasts. Made from copper, tin, or aluminium with filigree work, these lanterns showcase intricate patterns and ornate designs.

Available in various sizes and shapes, they make unique and beautiful souvenirs, reminiscent of Arabian tales. Whether placed on a table or hung up, these lanterns add a touch of elegance and tradition to any space. Perfect for gifting, these Aladdin-inspired lamps are a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of Dubai.

Traditional Arab Shoes

It would be great to elevate your wardrobe with traditional Arab shoes, a quirky and stylish souvenir from Dubai. These shoes feature intricate thread-work for men and bead embellishments for women. These slim-fit shoes add a touch of Arabian flair to your outfit making them a perfect Dubai purchase. They are also available in various styles and colours,

Arabic Calligraphy Art

Arabic calligraphy is a significant form of artistic expression in the Middle East. This communicates profound meanings through the strokes and curves of its letters. It encompasses traditional and contemporary styles, often depicting Quranic verses or poetry.

Camel Milk Chocolate

Tourists can indulge in the unique and delicious taste of camel milk chocolates from Al Nassma, a must-have delicacy in Dubai. They are available in various varieties, including whole milk, 70% cocoa, dates, macadamia, and spiced chocolate. These chocolates, especially the ones shaped like camels, are a delectable treat and a perfect Dubai souvenir.

Electronic Gadgets

Dubai's dynamic tech scene presents a perfect place for gadget enthusiasts. From the latest smartphones to cutting-edge cameras, electronic stores in malls like BurJuman and Deira City Centre offer a wide range of affordable options. While not a traditional purchase, Dubai's electronics are often cheaper than many markets, providing value for money. It is suggested to compare prices with your home country for the best deals.

Hookah Pipe

It is suggested to bring a piece of Arabian tradition home like authentic Arabic hookah pipes, perfect for both decor and relaxation. It is available in various sizes and designs and these beautifully crafted pipes are a common and cherished item in Arab households, offering a touch of elegance and tradition.

Arabian Daggers

People can decorate their homes with the traditional Emirati khanjar, a curved dagger often worn as part of men's attire. These ornate daggers feature handles adorned with silver or marble, adding a touch of Arabian elegance to your space.

Incense Holders

One should experience Arabian hospitality with Dubai's enticing incense holders. Infused with fragrances like frankincense or myrrh, these cultural treasures add a rich aroma to your space. You may find them in malls or explore the Spice Souq in Old Deira.

The Dubai Mall

Most Popular Shopping Malls in Dubai

The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall boasts over 1,200 shops, encompassing high-end fashion, cutting-edge electronics, and traditional treasures. This is admired as one of the world's largest malls and it offers family attractions, art, spectacular aquarium, etc. Featuring top brands like Dior and Fendi, it is the epitome of luxury and variety in Dubai.

Wafi City

Wafi City, an iconic mall in Dubai, provides a unique shopping experience amidst surroundings inspired by ancient Egypt and upscale luxury. Its exterior resembles an Egyptian necropolis with giant statues. Inside, the mall features Middle Eastern-style fashion boutiques and international luxury labels, creating a captivating blend of ancient and modern.

Mall of the Emirates

Mall of the Emirates, famed for hosting Ski Dubai, offers a unique shopping experience with a focus on luxury brands. Boasting flagship stores, exclusive boutiques, and an indoor ski resort, it is a haven for discerning shoppers.

With trendy brands, the mall exudes a luxurious and premier vibe. Here you can find haute couture, boutique-style Apple store, Harvey Nichols, Marks & Spencer and many more sought-after international brands.

Mall of the Emirates

Ibn Battuta Mall

Ibn Battuta Mall presents an awesome architectural construction of six courts inspired by the renowned explorer's journeys. Boasting exclusive interior design with intricate tiling, vivid mosaics, and themed aesthetics, each court reflects unique themes like Andalusia, India, etc.

Offering exclusive international experience, the mall blends notable brands presenting upscale and streetwear fashion, lifestyle shops, sporting goods, etc. With regular events and promotions, this platform promises a vibrant shopping encounter.

Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai

Dubai Festival Mall

Situated along Dubai Creek, Dubai Festival City is a shopping haven boasting over 400 stores, including a massive IKEA. Beyond shopping, visitors can enjoy waterfront dining, laser light shows, ultramodern entertainment displays, etc. The Canal Walk offers elegant waterfront dining, while Festival Bay hosts the iconic IMAGINE show. This mall stands as one of Dubai's most notable shopping destinations.

Dubai Festival Mall

City Centre Mirdif

City Centre Mirdif stands out among Dubai's malls, offering more than 430 retail shops, featuring Debenhams and Centrepoint. Known for innovative entertainment, it hosts iFly, an indoor skydiving hotspot, and Little Explorers for kids' edutainment. Besides these, trendy brands, like United Designers, Yoshii Boutique, etc showcase beautiful styles from regional brands, making it a famous shopping centre.

City Centre Mirdif, Dubai

Dubai Outlet Mall

Those who love to bargain while shopping should not miss the Dubai Outlet Mall. Featuring year-round sales at factory outlets, it offers the latest trends from designer labels like Diane von Furstenberg, Burberry, and Marc Jacobs, alongside electronics as well as luxury perfumes. Mondays bring extra delights, with selected stores offering additional discounts of up to 50%, making it a sought-after shopping mall in Dubai.

BurJuman Centre

Despite its age, BurJuman remains one of the most popular Dubai malls, drawing thousands with its contemporary fashion and family-friendly atmosphere. Housing leading retailers, a state-of-the-art cinema, and enticing dining options, it exudes a vibrant ambience. Accommodating popular brands like H&M and Levi's, this mall appears as a timeless shopping destination in Dubai.

BurJuman Centre, Dubai

Cautions and Tips to Buy Gold in Dubai

Shopping on Special Sales

Dubai offers competitive gold prices year-round, with the best deals during events like the Dubai Summer Surprises, Dubai Shopping Festival, etc.

Research Market Prices

Try to stay informed about daily fluctuations in gold prices, as this knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and avoid overpaying.

Verify Authenticity

Ensure the authenticity of your gold purchases by choosing reputable stores with proper certifications for precious metals. Look for the gold purity hallmark certificate and Bareeq certification for added assurance.

Cash Advantage, Exercise Caution

When bargaining for gold in Dubai, cash payments—whether in US dollars or dirhams—often secure better prices. However, exercise caution when carrying large numbers of cash.

Secure Documentation

It is important to obtain detailed receipts for warranties, appraisals, and potential customs declarations. These ensure proper documentation for your purchases.

Reclaim VAT at the Airport

Tourists can reclaim the 5% VAT on gold jewellery at the Dubai Airport's VAT refund counter. So it is necessary to keep your purchase receipts for this process.

Final Words

Shopping in Dubai is an unparalleled experience that combines luxury, tradition, and modernity. From the glittering Gold Souk to the chic boutiques in the malls, Dubai caters to every shopper's taste.

Whether you are seeking opulent gold jewellery, traditional souvenirs, or the latest electronic gadgets, Dubai has it all. Again it is necessary to remember to exercise caution, conduct thorough research, and immerse yourself in the vibrant shopping culture for an unforgettable experience.