Dubai is home to several world-class shopping malls and delightful boutiques, but the charm and essence of the traditional local markets which are referred as Souks offer a completely new experience. The souks have exclusive stores which sell gold, textiles, spices, perfumes, herbs, and other local produce. The local Arabian market still plays a crucial part of the daily life and trade in the UAE even though Dubai is a thriving modern city. A visit to these exotic souks is a must-visit for both the visitors and locals.
Deira is one of the oldest districts in the Dubai city and the vibrant and effervescent souks of Dubai blend seamlessly in this shopping extravaganza. Not only that, Deira has more to offer as a cultural experience as you would find a cosmopolitan array of nationalities checking out the collection in its bustling streets. The souks offer a great source of discounts and offer in comparison to the prices of the products in your home country. We have listed some of the souks which you should visit to explore and discover the local culture of Dubai. These souks are definitely not listed in the order of significance.
Dubai Souks: The Ultimate Guide
1.Gold Souks
Gold and Dubai are synonymous and go hand in hand. Dubai is one of the biggest markets of gold in the entire world. The designs available feature both traditional and modern design and offers incredible variety at amazing prices. With the duty-free status of Dubai, you have another reason to purchase more. No wonder Dubai has often been termed as the city of gold. One of the oldest and a traditional bazaar still running in Dubai. The gold souk not only features the yellow metal, you get an amazing variety of other precious stones as well. You just cannot miss this when you are in Dubai no matter whether you purchase some gold or not.
2.Textile Souks
Placed in the ancient neighborhood of Bur Dubai, this is a colorful heaven featuring rich fabrics and materials. You will find yards and yards of raw cotton, silk, wools, cashmere, pashminas, carpets and all kinds of fabrics found on the planet. One of the best places to purchase some great souvenirs for your loved ones back home. A home to the city’s in-demand tailors, and emerging fashion designers. There are several souks which provide you the turnaround order in a matter of few days. Bargaining is a norm here, so don’t forget to polish your negotiation skills to get the best price. You will definitely be surprised by the vibrant colors of the fabrics on display.
3.Spice Souks
Just in the neighborhood of the Gold Souk, follow your nose and ears to reach the vibrant trading floor of the spice souks. Browse the collection and make your personal picks among the wide range of colorful spices, rice and fruit, herbs, and much more. If you want to explore the exotic side of Dubai, then there is no better place to be. Some of the must buy here include the high-quality saffron strands, A-grade and sun-dried organic dates, candied nuts, dried fruits, and locally-blended teas. Come and discover a new flavor and check the sample before you purchase one.
4.Perfume Souks
The fragrance of these scented smells, essential oils, and traditional oud are some of the prime features of the Perfume Souk in Dubai. Placed on the Sikkat Al Khail Road in Deira towards the eastern side of the Gold Souk, it features an exquisite collection of perfume shops and a treat for the people who are simply obsessed by scents. Browse the amazing collection of pure perfumes, incense sticks, exotic traditional oud, and essential oils, these souks offer fragranced options for all kinds of taste. You can also create personalized fragrances which can be bottled by experienced perfumers. For the best prices, we recommend you to purchase items in bulk.
5.Souk Al Bahar
This popular Arabian style souk is home to more than 40 boutiques featuring fine jewelry, precious metals, and amazing gemstones. The collection is exquisite and features contemporary and modern designs and at par with international standards. The quality of the products is a testimony to the amazing passionate skills of the local craftsmen. Explore the Emirati heritage among the intricate designs and enjoy a wonderful shopping experience. Discover intriguing designs and amazing art work as you pass through the narrow alleyways of this traditional bazaar environment in Dubai.
6.Souk Madinat
Nestled between two popular five star rated hotels, the Al Qasr and the Mina A’Salam, the Souk Madinat Jumeirah is not a perfect market for the hagglers but more for those who want to enjoy the shopping experience in a souk. The narrow lanes are a fun way to search for some fine souvenirs, local and international design houses, fine art and sculptures. You can also catch a show at the Madinat Theater. Once you are done browsing through the collection, head to the array of restaurants and Levant cafes which are open at any time of the day. There is also a great collection of fine dining restaurants blessed with front row views of the waterways which pass through the complex. Complete your journey with a traditional abra boat ride and eat and drink while soaking in the ambiance of iconic Dubai.
We have been to Diera souks but not the Al Bahar. These traditional markets really exude the Emirate culture. We also did some shopping here, except for gold.