Dubai is undoubtedly famous for its shopping scene. The city features a mixture of luxury stores, traditional markets, and diverse shopping options. With its expansive malls, bustling souks, and unique boutiques, Dubai is one of the best places to visit for shopaholics.
Dubai has some of the largest and most luxurious malls in the world. The Dubai Mall is the biggest, featuring over 1,200 stores, high-end brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, and an indoor ice rink and aquarium. Another popular mall is the Mall of the Emirates, known for Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort.
To have an authentic experience, visit the traditional markets in Old Dubai. The Gold Souk is famous for its wide selection of gold and jewellery, often at good prices. The Spice Souk is vibrant, filled with the colours and smells of saffron, cardamom, and dried fruits. You can find beautiful silk, pashminas, and other fabrics at the Textile Souk.
Pashmina Shawls
People in the Middle East are well-acquainted with Pashmina. This type of shawl is crafted from the fine wool of Changthangi goats, which are native to the Himalayas.
Pashmina shawls can be found in India’s Ladakh and Kashmir regions, as well as in many other Middle Eastern countries.
The production of genuine Pashmina shawls requires skilled artisans using traditional hand-weaving techniques, which is time-consuming. Because of their softness and warmth, Pashmina shawls are especially popular in Dubai.
It is a beautiful but expensive thing to buy in Dubai. In the city, you can find real cashmere shawls in bright colours and lovely patterns, making them a luxurious accessory.
Note: In Dubai, you can find authentic pashmina shawls in luxury stores as well as some souks. However, be cautious of imitations, as some shawls marketed as “pashmina” may actually be made from a mix of cashmere and other fibres or synthetic materials like viscose. It reduces their quality and makes them less expensive.
So, enhance your outfit with high-quality pashmina shawls from Dubai. These shawls are famous for their unique ethnic designs from the UAE. Their bright colours and embroidery make them a wonderful souvenir to bring home.
Oudh/Oud and Bakhoor
Did you know the Difference Between Oud & Bakhoor?
|
Oud (Oudh) and Bakhoor are popular products in Dubai. They make great alternatives to fresheners, candles, and incense.
In Dubai, perfumes are popular for their unique scents and are often used as room fresheners in many Emirati households. When you visit Dubai, make sure to buy a bottle of perfume, especially Oud.
Agarwood Oud is extracted from the Southeast Asian Agar tree. It is one of the unique things to buy in Dubai, which makes your room aromatic and brightens your mood.
| Did you know why Oud is Expensive?
It’s a rare and costly essential oil because it’s only produced from Agar trees affected by a specific fungus. That’s why it is often referred to as “Liquid Gold” and is known for its unique value. |
Oud can be combined with other ingredients to create many rich fragrances, which are central to the oud industry in the Middle East. While Giorgio Armani and Tom Ford offer their oud fragrances, the best choice is to buy an oud fragrance from a local shop in Dubai.
If you are looking to buy authentic Oud in Dubai, you can easily find it in the Dubai Mall, which features stores-
All these shops offer a variety of Oud products and fragrances.
| An Interesting Fact about Dubai:
Dubai is home to a unique museum dedicated to Oud and perfume-making: the Al Shindagha Perfume Museum. It’s one of the best museums in the city, offering visitors the chance to learn about the history and craftsmanship of perfume-making. Inside, you’ll find a small shop where you can purchase authentic Oud to take home as a souvenir. |
If you enjoy delightful fragrances and unique scents while exploring the streets of Dubai, you should take a piece of that experience home with you by purchasing Oud or Bakhoor. These fragrances are available in various forms, including pure oil, blended oil, floral oils, and perfume.
Persian Rugs & Carpets
Carpet weaving is an important art in the Middle East. Dubai is a great place to buy high-quality carpets from Iran, Turkey, or Afghanistan.
Handwoven rugs feature detailed designs and bright colours. Each Middle Eastern carpet is hand-knotted, with every knot taking hours of work, making each rug a unique piece of art.
We live in a world filled with machine-made rugs. However, Persian handmade rugs are different. They are valuable and beautiful, making them interesting items to bring home.
When thinking about the best things to buy in Dubai, Persian rugs and carpets stand out. And these beautiful carpets can enhance your home’s floors.
However, they can be a bit pricey and difficult to transport due to their thickness. Hand-made rugs cost more than machine-made ones, but they are worth the investment.
The best thing about Dubai is that if you don’t find a carpet that fascinates you, you can customise one at various stores in Dubai.
They offer a range of sizes, and the prices vary accordingly. The rates are influenced by factors such as quality, material, and the amount of workmanship involved.
Kava Pots & Coffee Sets
| The Dallah, or Kava, is a traditional Arabic coffee pot that represents Arabian hospitality. These decorative pots are used to serve coffee and can be used every day or kept as a showpiece. |
Coffee lovers, get ready to treat yourself to indulge in pots that enhance every sip of your coffee!
Coffee has deep cultural significance in the UAE and throughout much of the Arab world. Also known as “gahwa,” Arabic coffee is traditionally brewed with cardamom and saffron, giving it a unique and aromatic flavour.
Arabic coffee is more than just a drink; it is a part of the culture and shows the warmth and hospitality of Arabian people. This coffee is served in beautiful pots and stylish cups, making it an essential part of Arabic traditions.
Kava coffee pots are often adorned with gold or silver, and some more expensive ones feature semi-precious stones. These pots make excellent gifts and are great souvenirs to take from Dubai.
Aladdin Lamps
Do you want to buy “Aladdin ka Chirag!?”
Inspired by the legend of Aladdin, Aladdin Lamps are commonly known as Aladdin ka Chirag in India.
These beautifully designed lamps will remind you of the stories of Aladdin and the Genie. However, the genie does not actually appear from these lamps.
If you are looking for something unique to gift your loved one, then you will find many Arab markets selling beautiful Aladdin lamps. These brass lamps have detailed carvings all over them, often inlaid with stones, and the tale and mystery of Aladdin find a home there.
If you do not want to carry heavy things back home but still want to find something unique, consider an Aladdin lamp. They are extremely convenient due to their lightweight nature, diverse shapes and sizes, and they make great souvenirs.
For kids who like the story of Aladdin and the Genie, you can take these famous lamps that will take them back in time.
These Aladdin Lamps are a great souvenir to buy in Dubai. If you are wondering where you can find them, Karma Souk and Al-Karama Market are the best markets in Dubai to buy.
Thus, without fail, buy these as these beautiful lamps are on the list of Dubai’s famous things to buy.
Gold Jewellery
| Do you know?
Jewellery prices in Dubai are usually lower than in many other cities because of tax policies that keep rates down. This makes the prices more reasonable. |
Dubai has a long history of gold trading, with merchants engaging in this trade for generations. Thus, the city is an absolute paradise for gold lovers.
Dubai is commonly known as the “City of Gold,” and there are good reasons for this title. It would be a missed opportunity to visit this dynamic city and not take part in some gold shopping.
In Dubai, gold has a very high purity level, and buyers can trust its authenticity due to government rules and regular inspections. Regarding authentic gold ornaments, Dubai is one of the best places to buy gold necklaces and bracelets.
In addition to gold pieces, you can also find diamond and platinum jewellery at reasonable prices. Although the prices are already appealing, a bit of bargaining can help you secure an even better deal on your purchase.
If you are wondering where to buy gold jewellery in Dubai?
The answer is the Gold Souk in Deira. It is famous worldwide for its exquisite gold jewellery. You will find many stores that display beautiful gold jewellery. These pieces cater to both traditional and modern styles.
Even if you don’t intend to make a purchase, it’s highly recommended visiting this market to take in the dazzling sights. The Gold Souk is a unique attraction in Dubai that you won’t want to miss.
Arabian Dates
| Did you know?
Dates are rich sources of nutrients like magnesium, calcium, copper, etc. They are a symbol of Middle Eastern culture and hospitality. These plants have been cultivated in this region for more than 6,000 years. They are admired not only for their nutritional value but also for their cultural significance during celebrations such as Ramadan. |
Dates are a stable and fundamental part of the diet in the Middle East. In addition to dates, dried fruits are commonly enjoyed as snacks in Dubai.
The city offers a wide variety of dates, including Safawi, Medjool, Ajwa, Omani, and Khidri, making them delicious and healthy snack options.
If you are thinking, what is so great about dates, and why do they make it to the list of the best things to buy in Dubai? Then let me tell you, the excellent quality of the dates produced here has made them a favourite among many.
They can be enjoyed raw, used in desserts, served with coffee, made into non-alcoholic beverages, and given as gifts during Ramadan. Their versatility truly knows no bounds.
You’ll also discover dates filled with various nuts and other delicious fillings. There are countless options available if you visit before or during the sacred month of Ramadan.
Some popular brands of dates include Bateel, Al Barakah, Bayara, Date Crown, and Jomara.
The Abaya and Kandora
The Abaya and Kandora garments stand as the symbol of UAE’s culture and heritage. This traditional Emirati dress is one of the best things to buy in Dubai, as you will get an authentic piece.
| Abaya | Kandora (or Kandoora) |
|
|
You can find both the Abaya and Kandora in many markets in Dubai, like the Gold Souk or Deira.
These garments make thoughtful gifts that show the region’s rich culture and traditions. If you want something practical and meaningful, these clothes are a great choice!
Arabic Attars
Did you know that most Muslims prefer using Attar instead of traditional perfumes?
|
Attar, or perfume oils, are created by distilling flower petals in water using pressure and mild heat. These powerful oils produce an exotic and pleasant fragrance that is often noticeable when you walk past Arab men or women.
Prepared from plant sources, attars are alcohol-free and are available in a variety of scents. They have a wonderful fragrance that will keep you smelling fresh all day long. Attars are definitely among the most affordable items you can purchase in Dubai.
If you want to buy attars, sellers can help you choose from a wide selection or create a custom blend by mixing different scents. Attar makes a great keepsake to take home, and it’s one of the best things to buy in Dubai.
Arabic Lanterns
Arabic lanterns have been an important part of cultural celebrations like Ramadan for centuries. They symbolise light and spirituality.
In traditional Emirati homes, you will often see lanterns made of glass and mirrors. These lanterns not only serve as beautiful centrepieces but also bring warmth to a room.
Craftsmen make these lanterns with great care and attention, which makes them wonderful gifts. A copper and tin lantern with intricate filigree work would be a special gift.
[Note: Look for one that has small pieces of glass woven into its design for a unique touch].
You might also consider an octagonal lantern made of brass. These lanterns often have stunning decorations and a mix of metal and glass. When lit, they create beautiful shadows that add a magical atmosphere to any space.
Traditional Arab Shoes
| Did you know the difference between Men’s and Women’s Arab Shoes?
Men’s shoes usually include threadwork. Meanwhile, women’s shoes are enhanced with beads and baubles. |
Dresses and footwear from various cultures serve as unique and memorable souvenirs to bring back home. Arab shoes are made from high-quality leather and feature detailed patterns and bright colours. They often include decorations, making them both practical and stylish.
In particular, traditional Arab shoes, known as “babouches” for men and “balgha” for women, showcase a distinct design that reflects the rich heritage of the region.
Babouches:
Arab-style shoes are like the ones worn by the character Aladdin. They fit closely and taper at the toes. Men’s shoes have a curled tip.
These traditional shoes come in many colours. Men’s shoes often feature decorative threadwork along the body.
Balgha:
Women’s shoes feature beads, baubles, and small cloth balls to enhance their appearance.
They come in different heel heights, so everyone can find a style they like. You can find traditional options in various styles, such as slip-on and fully covered shoes.
Arabian Coffee
Do you know what Gahwa is?
|
In many Arab countries, gahwa is not just a beverage but a profound symbol of hospitality and an essential component of social interactions.
Arabic coffee offers a unique bitter taste that many coffee lovers enjoy. It is known for its strong flavour, which is often balanced with a sweet treat.
The process of making Gahwa includes-
- Roasting of high-quality coffee beans
- Grinding it to a fine consistency
- Brewing the coffee with water and spices such as cardamom, cloves, or sometimes cinnamon.
The act of serving gahwa is imbued with specific etiquette: it is customary to offer the coffee to guests using a special pot called a dallah. It ensures that each guest receives a cup filled with warmth and respect.
Hosts often pour the coffee into small, handleless cups known as finjan, serving it in small quantities.
The act of sharing gahwa serves to foster a sense of community and connection among individuals. It goes beyond being just a drink; it becomes a valued cultural experience.
People around the world love coffee. If you too enjoy coffee and are visiting Dubai, you should try the refreshing Arabian coffee. It’s one of the best things to buy in Dubai.
Hookahs
Shisha smoking has been a popular activity across the Arab world for centuries. Hookah is a common item found in almost every Arab home in Dubai.
Not only are these items often used for relaxing and socialising, but they’re also displayed as luxurious pieces in many Emirati homes.
Even if you don’t partake in the smoking ritual, you can still bring a beautiful hookah home as a decorative piece that adds an exotic touch to your space.
You can find hookahs in a variety of sizes and styles, so buy the one that suits your taste.
Many shops in Dubai, particularly in places like the Deira Souks, offer stunning and sometimes extravagant hookahs that would make for a thoughtful and special gift.
If you’re looking to buy a hookah for yourself or as a gift, it’s a great way to experience Arab culture.
You can find hookahs at places like Smokers’ Center, Carrefour Hypermarket, and the busy Dubai Souks. They can be quite affordable too, making them a wonderful Dubai souvenir to get while you’re in the city!
Baklava
Baklava is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert. It consists of thin layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts (often pistachios, walnuts, or cashews) and sweetened with syrup or honey. It’s known for its rich, buttery taste and delicate texture.
Dubai is well-known for its sweets like Baklava, Khabees, Maamoul, and Batheeth. These treats are popular around the world. When you visit Dubai, trying these sweets is a must. Plus, buying sweets for your friends and family back home is a common tradition.
In Dubai, you will find a wide variety of Baklava, from traditional Turkish-style versions to those with a modern twist, incorporating unique flavours like saffron, rose water, or even chocolate.
Baklava is one of the best things to buy in Dubai because it lasts longer than other Middle Eastern sweets and is, therefore, easy to bring back home as a delicious souvenir from Dubai.
To buy the best baklava in Dubai, go to the shops such as
Camel Milk Chocolates
| Did you Know?
Camel milk tastes slightly sweeter and creamier than cow’s milk. When combined with chocolate, it creates a smooth treat that is different from traditional chocolates. |
Are you a chocolate lover craving chocolate treats in Dubai? Well, then, Habibi, try the famous Camel Milk Chocolates!
You can find various camel milk chocolate products, including bars, truffles, and even chocolate-covered nuts or dates, which showcase the unique flavours of the UAE.
Camel milk chocolate is a unique creation that originates from Arabia. The chocolate often comes shaped like camels, which makes them especially popular.
[Note: Al Nassma Chocolate Company produces the best camel milk chocolate in the world. Based in Dubai, it offers chocolates in many varieties, including dates, hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, and macadamia nuts].
As camel milk products are a delicacy of Dubai, they are a must-buy item and are well-known for their delightful taste. Camel milk chocolate is particularly rare, as it is produced solely by one company, Al Nassma.
Their chocolate bars are available in five varieties: whole milk, 70% cocoa, dates, macadamia, and spiced. The chocolate bars shaped like camels come highly recommended.
Dubai Spices
The magic of spice flavours is undeniably the best! They attract and awaken your food cravings. Spices have the extraordinary ability to transform a dish from bland to mouth-watering.
One of the best things to buy in Dubai is its impressive collection of spices. If you enjoy cooking or want to delight your mother, these spices make for an ideal gift.
Colourful, fragrant, and diverse, the spices of Dubai are an excellent way to celebrate the culinary traditions of the Middle East. The essence of Dubai spices can upgrade your dish in every way, enhancing its flavour significantly.
These spices are quite affordable and can be easily found in local markets. As a result, they are among the most popular items to purchase in Dubai.
Popular Spices to buy from Dubai are:
- Saffron
- Cardamom
- Turmeric
- Cumin
- Cinnamon
- Black Pepper
- Sumac
- Ras el Hanout
- Coriander
If you want to take the aroma of Dubai with you, then visit The Spice Souk. It is located in the historic district of Deira in Old Dubai.
It is the traditional market in Dubai and offers a wide range of spices, herbs, fragrances, textiles, and artefacts. You can buy the important ingredients for typical Middle Eastern dishes.
With many spices, nuts, and herbs available, the vendors often try new recipes to surprise their customers.
Jewel Chest
I am sure that when you visit Dubai, you will buy gold! But don’t you think you need something to keep it safe? That’s where a jewel chest comes in. You can also buy them as a Dubai souvenir.
Jewel chests come in various shapes and designs. They are adorned with precious stones and gems featuring intricate patterns. Also, they are a great way to complement jewellery.
Wooden jewel chests are usually made from sandalwood and come in different colours, styles, and sizes. They are spacious and great for storing your jewellery. You will often find them decorated with precious or semi-precious stones, brass, and silver.
Popular materials for jewellery boxes in the UAE include velvet, leather, wood, and acrylic. Choose materials that resist moisture and dust to keep your jewellery safe. A good jewellery box helps preserve and display your valuable items.
You can find jewel chests and other souvenirs in traditional bazaars like Souk Madinat Jumeirah or the Gold Souk, where you can find unique and affordable items.
Key Considerations:
✅ Size and Shape: Think about how much jewellery you have and the space you need for storage.
✅ Material: Select strong and luxurious materials like velvet, leather, or wood.
✅ Compartments: Look for a jewellery box that has multiple compartments to keep your pieces organised.
✅ Security Features: Ensure it has a secure closure to protect your valuable jewellery.
✅ Style and Aesthetics: Pick a design that matches your personal style and fits your home decor.
Precious Stones
Wearable stones, or gemstones, hold cultural, spiritual, and aesthetic significance. They are believed to provide health, spiritual, and astrological benefits to the wearer and are utilised for adornment, healing, and protection.
If you love wearing precious stones such as diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and others, consider Dubai to be your shopping stop. Dubai has a market for high-quality stones. You can buy it for yourself or for gifting purposes.
Buying these as souvenirs is great because you can customise them, and they come in many designs. Many people find Arabian designs to be unique and beautiful. These items are also very popular during the Dubai Shopping Festival.
If you believe that planets and stars influence your life, lucky stones are a must-buy item in Dubai. Lucky stones are usually adorned with gold, silver, and intricate designs, and they can be worn as rings or pendants.
Incense Holder
In Hindu culture, incense is an important part of spiritual practices, rituals, and daily life. It symbolises purification, helps connect to the divine, and creates a peaceful atmosphere.
When you are visiting Dubai, an incense holder makes a great purchase to enhance your home’s decor. Their pleasant scents will make your guests feel welcome.
In the lively markets of Dubai, especially in the busy souks, you can find a wide range of incense holders to suit different tastes.
These holders are often made from luxurious materials like brass, ceramic, or intricate glass. They come in various styles that reflect the rich artistic traditions of the region.
Traditional designs may include detailed engravings or beautiful floral patterns, showcasing the craftsmanship of Middle Eastern artisans.
On the other hand, modern designs tend to be simpler, featuring clean lines and bold colours that appeal to contemporary tastes. Many of these holders serve a practical purpose but also act as eye-catching decorative pieces that enhance any home.
You can find these incense holders all over Dubai, but the best place to buy them is the Spice Souq in the Old Deira area.
Electronics Items
Electronics items are considered to be the cheapest thing to buy in dubai. But do you know why?
One of the main draws of buying electronics in Dubai is the tax-free shopping environment. The UAE doesn’t charge VAT (Value Added Tax) on most products, which means the final prices you see are without any hidden taxes added on.
You can find duty-free shopping at many stores, especially in airports, so if you’re travelling internationally, you may be able to score great deals without additional duties.
For those looking for premium electronics, Dubai is a hotspot for luxury and high-end tech. The city offers top-tier gadgets, such as the latest models of MacBooks, high-end cameras, and premium smartwatches.
If you’re looking for the latest Apple, Samsung, Sony, Canon, or Microsoft gadgets, you can find them in stores like Carrefour, Jumbo Electronics, Sharaf DG, Virgin Megastore, and the Dubai Mall’s electronics section.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dubai is a great place for shopping, offering a wide range of products at good prices. You can find electronics like smartphones, laptops, and cameras, as well as luxury items such as designer handbags and watches.
Don’t forget to look for traditional souvenirs like pashmina shawls, Arabic spices, and oud perfumes, and check out the famous gold jewellery in the Gold Souk.
Dubai is also an excellent spot for high-quality perfumes and textiles, with unique choices in its traditional markets.
Whether you want modern gadgets or authentic cultural gifts, Dubai combines luxury and tradition in its shopping experience. Make sure to take advantage of duty-free shopping and seasonal discounts to get the best deals.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Things to Buy in Dubai
What is Dubai famous for Shopping?
Dubai is known for luxury shopping, offering everything from high-end fashion and jewellery to electronics and traditional Arabian goods. The Dubai Shopping Festival is a major event where shoppers can find great deals and discounts.
What are the best things to buy in Dubai?
Dubai offers a wide variety of unique items, including gold jewellery, luxury fashion, electronics, perfumes, traditional Arabian rugs, spices, and pashmina shawls. You can also shop for designer bags and watches in high-end malls.
What is cheaper in Dubai than in India?
Electronics such as smartphones, laptops, and cameras are often cheaper in Dubai due to lower taxes. Luxury items like designer bags, watches, and gold jewellery can also be more affordable in Dubai compared to India.
What are good things to buy in Dubai for ladies?
For ladies, popular items include gold jewellery, designer handbags, luxury perfumes, traditional Arabian dresses (Abayas), and elegant scarves. Dubai also offers a wide range of beauty products from international and local brands.
What is the best electronics to buy in Dubai?
Dubai is a great place to buy electronics, especially smartphones, laptops, cameras, and smartwatches. Major electronics brands like Apple, Samsung, Sony, and Canon offer competitive prices due to Dubai’s tax advantages.
Are luxury goods cheaper in Dubai?
Yes, luxury goods such as designer handbags, watches, and jewellery are often available at better prices in Dubai compared to other places, especially during sales events like the Dubai Shopping Festival.
What traditional souvenirs should I buy in Dubai?
You can buy pashmina shawls, Arabic spices, dates, oud perfume, and traditional Arabic coffee sets as authentic souvenirs.
What type of gold is popular in Dubai?
Dubai is famous for its gold jewellery, especially 22k and 24k gold. The Gold Souk offers a wide variety of designs at competitive prices.
Can I buy electronics duty-free in Dubai?
Yes, you can buy many electronics duty-free at Dubai airports or large malls, offering significant savings compared to other regions.
Is Dubai a good place to buy perfumes?
Yes, Dubai is known for its luxurious perfumes, especially oud-based fragrances. The perfume souks and stores like Ajmal offer high-quality, unique scents.
