Dubai is known all around the world for being a hub for technology, innovation and development.
With iconic landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Frame and Palm Jumeriah, Dubai has developed massively over the past 50 years.
Shopping is all the rave in Dubai as people can opt for high-end to local brands and with a multitude of annual sales from Dubai Summer Surprises to the Dubai Shopping Festival taking place, tourists and residents alike have a wide variety of shopping experiences they can enjoy.
If you are looking for a place to go back in time and explore life as it was years ago, souks are a great destination for shopping.
Here are some amazing souks to enjoy a unique way of shopping, from buying souvenirs to clothes, there is something for everyone.
Gold Souk
Located in Deira, the Gold Souk is easily one of the best places to shop for gold and is well established in Dubai. With rows of shops, there are ample choices to get the items you are looking for. From 18 karat gold to 24 karat gold, all the shops at the souk sell authentic jewellery, as ensured by the Dubai government. The prices are set according to market value and are sold based on weight. While at the souk, also shop for silver, platinum, pearls, gemstones and more.
Perfume Souk
Perfume has become a staple in our daily life and the perfume souk definitely has it all. From sweet fragrances, musky scents to shopping for oud, the perfumes are sold in bigger bottles for daily wear to roller balls to carry in your bag, catering to each and every taste. A dream for perfume lovers, explore the world of smell located at Sikkat Al Kali. Choose from essential oils, traditional oud, incense sticks and more. Visitors can also create a custom perfume of their choice at the store.
Spice Souk
The Spice Souk is the best place to explore your taste buds and palette. Situated near the Gold Souk in Deira, delight in shopping from fresh products at the one-stop shop for herbs, rice, fruits, tea and more. The souk is a great place to shop for high-quality spices at reasonable prices as well as buy in bulk, and is a must-visit for chefs, tourists, home cooks and beginners. With a wide range of shops available, there are endless opportunities to get inspired to try new spices and dishes from the available choices.
Textile Souk
Located at the Creek in Bur Dubai, the Textile Souk is a brilliant place to visit to shop for a wide variety clothing pieces. From high-quality silk to cotton, shop from the wide variety of stores available. Feast your eyes on the bright colour options as well as handcrafted pieces including embroidery, lace and more. The souk also has places to turn the fabric into stunning clothing pieces.
Naif Souk
Naif Souk was once popularly known as the camel market and is currently one of the oldest souks in Dubai. The souk is now a popular hotspot for tourists and residents. Visitors can enjoy shopping for souvenirs, abayas, kaftas, leather and even electronics for reasonable prices from the multiple small stores available.
Souk Al Marfa
Souk Al Marfa is one of the largest souks found in Dubai and is a great place to get a variety of products for a wholesale price. Located on Dubai Creek, the souk has been created by Nakheel Malls and DP World and is home to over 960 stores where you can shop for bags, clothes, footwear, perfume and more and is a great way to show support to small businesses.
Souk Al Bahar
Souk Al Bahar, known as the sailor market, is a mix of both classic and contemporary. Located in Downtown Dubai, the souk is home to a multitude of shops, restaurants, cafes and lounges. Visitors can also enjoy a stunning view of the Burj Khalifa and the waterfront promenade. Shop from carpets, handicrafts, furniture, fashion, jewellery and more.