Ultimate Shopping Guide in UAE: Top 11 Places from Malls to Souks (2024)

Shopping isn’t a pastime or a hobby but an experience of joy and discovery. Especially in the UAE, shopping is an adventure, all thanks to the grand malls and age-old marketplaces. The United Arab Emirates is a shopping paradise, especially the Emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. A shopping experience here blends with tradition and modernity. UAE is full of state-of-the-art malls, global design brands, ancient souks, and more such places to shop.

So, are you ready for a shopping trip in the UAE? Join us in this article as we list down the Top 11 Places to go Shopping in the UAE. While you may come for the retail therapy, the high-rise modern malls here will offer a combination of entertainment, world-class dining, and a luxurious spa. In comparison, the bustling souks of UAE await with treasures like precious metals, exotic spices, unique fragrances, and more.

Shopping in the UAE: Souks, Malls, and Unique Finds

Let’s explore:

1. Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall isn’t just a mall but a colossal retail and entertainment complex. One of the world’s largest malls, it is known as the most renowned shopping and entertainment destination in the UAE. Dubai Mall is home to Dubai’s shopping celebrations and is part of a 20-billion-dollar Downtown complex aka Downtown Dubai. It sits right next to the iconic Burj Khalifa and is one of the most visited places in the Emirates of Dubai. This modern marketplace is a haven, featuring 1,300 retail outlets ranging from luxury brands to mainstream retailers. Besides shopping, Dubai Mall is also popular for housing a VR Park, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, an indoor ice rink, and the famous Dubai Fountain just outside. Once done with shopping at Dubai Mall, individuals can also check out Souk Al Bahar, an Arabian-style marketplace right next to it.

2. Mall of the Emirates

Another mall in Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, is one of the best places to go shopping in the UAE. This huge shopping district is nestled in Dubai’s Al Barsha district. Mall of the Emirates features a vast selection of retail outlets, including a mix of high-end luxury brands and popular mainstream stores. It is quite popular amongst locals and visitors for its combination of luxury and affordability. This hub for fashion enthusiasts is full of boutiques and flagship stores, including designer brands. Mall of the Emirates is also frequently visited for VOX Cinemas, Magic Planet (indoor entertainment center), and dining. However, what sets this place apart is the presence of Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East.

3. Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi

A shopping, dining, and entertainment district, Yas Mall is located on the Yas Island of Abu Dhabi. It is the largest mall in Abu Dhabi, offering an immersive experience for both locals and tourists. The mall boasts diverse shops, from well-known international brands to local boutiques, offering vivid shopping options. This light-drenched three-level mall is also the second-largest mall in the UAE. Spread across 2.5 million square feet, it is home to 370 international brands, 68 F&B outlets, and more such options. Yas Mall also has direct access to Ferrari World Yas Island, Yas Waterworld, and Yas Marina Circuit.

4. Ibn Battuta Mall

UAE, especially the Emirates of Dubai, is popular for its malls, and the Ibn Battuta Mall is another on the list. It is located on the Sheikh Zayed Road, the largest themed shopping mall in Dubai. Inspired by the 14th-century travel of the legendary explorer Ibn Battuta across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, this unique mall got its style. It is classified into six distinct retail courts representing Andalusia, Egypt, India, Persia, China, and Tunisia. The mall is full of regional boutiques as well as international brands catering to diverse preferences. With architectural details and themed décor, Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai is also quite popular amongst photography enthusiasts.

5. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

A shopping trip to the UAE is incomplete without visiting its ancient souks. When in Dubai, visit the picturesque and charming Souk Madinat Jumeirah. This local marketplace resembles a traditional Arabian souk against the backdrop of the iconic Burj Al Arab. A visit here offers a unique shopping and dining experience. The narrow streets of Souk Madinat Jumeirah feature boutique shops selling traditional and contemporary goods like jewelry, clothing, and crafts. The marketplace also features restaurants and cafes, often with waterfront views. From traditional shopping to soul-satisfying dining, this place is a must-visit in Dubai. As the views of the Persian Gulf create an enchanting ambiance, both locals and tourists become drawn here.

6. The Dubai Gold Souk

The traditional Dubai Gold Souk is the largest Souk in the UAE. This renowned marketplace nestled in the heart of Deira boasts a glittering paradise. If you want to buy or even see the finest gold and jewelry, there’s no better place. The shops at Dubai Gold Souk are full of dazzling gold items featuring contemporary-style jewelry, intricate traditional designs, and more. It is, in fact, a global center for gold trade, and people from different parts of the world visit here just to buy gold. The skilled craftsmen at work working on the most traditional and authentic designs uplift this marketplace. The sheer volume and variety of gold on display you will find here will simply blow your mind. Jewelry pieces here reflect both local and international influences.

7. Sharjah Central Market, aka Blue Souk

Popularly known as Blue Souk, the Sharjah Central Market is an iconic shopping destination in the UAE. This architectural gem features a striking blue façade and traditional Arab design, adding to its rich heritage and culture. This traditional marketplace is popular for its diverse shopping options, from textiles, carpets, and jewelry to handicrafts and souvenirs. The long corridors here are full of stalls and boutiques, each selling unique items to reflect the artistry and craftsmanship of the region. It isn’t just a place for a shopping experience but a landmark of Sharjah’s cultural heritage.

8. Old Market Ras Al Khaimah

For a captivating journey into the past, visit the Old Market in Ras Al Khaimah. A visit to this traditional marketplace offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Ras Al Khaimah. This historic market is also known as the Al Qawasim Corniche. Popular for its authentic Arabian ambiance, traditional architecture, and bustling stalls, it attracts people from near and far. The Old Market is popular for antiques, local handicrafts, spices, and textiles. It is also a common shopping place for ornate carpets, intricate jewelry, and more such unique treasures. Walking through its narrow alleyways is an experience on its own. The marketplace is also a popular shopping spot for traditional Emirati clothing. It is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts in the UAE.

9. Al Arsah Souk, Sharjah

Nestled in the heart of Sharjah, the Al Arsah Souk is the oldest Souk in the UAE. A captivating and historic marketplace, it is a treasure trove of Emirati heritage. Al Arsah Souk was where Bedouins and their camels gathered when civilization wasn’t a part of the UAE. Visiting here offers a journey back in time with opportunities to buy antique artifacts, jewelry, traditional textiles, and handcrafted items. Walking through a labyrinth of narrow streets adorned with shops, you can immerse yourself in the local culture and history. This ambiance exudes a sense of authenticity and an essence of the UAE’s cultural heritage. Though designed in the old style, Al Arsah Souk is fully air-conditioned.

10. Spice Souk, Dubai

Spice Souk is a fragrant and must-visit place in the historic district of the Emirates of Dubai. The marketplace is adjacent to Gold Souk and is frequently visited by locals and tourists. The sensory delight here attracts individuals seeking an authentic taste of Arabian flavors. The marketplace features artfully displayed stalls of vibrant and aromatic spices, herbs, and traditional Middle Eastern ingredients. Not only the aromatic scent but as the kaleidoscope of colors meanders through the narrow lanes; you will find yourself excited, engaged, and lost in the world of spices. From saffron, cardamom, cumin, and much more, it is a world full of flavors. It isn’t just a shopping destination but a world of Middle Eastern cuisine and culinary traditions.

11. Perfume Souk, Dubai

Once done with Spice Souk, check out Dubai’s Perfume Souk. This fragrant and captivating marketplace of Arabian scents is a must-visit. It is a haven for perfume enthusiasts who can shop for traditional and exotic fragrances. The Souk has a wide selection of perfumes, essential oils, and incense. Every single product has distinct aromas that are emblematic of the region. A visit here offers an opportunity to discover the art of perfumery and the rich olfactory heritage of the Middle East.

Unique Finds and Must-Buy Things In the UAE

• Gold and Jewelry in Dubai: Shop for various exquisite gold jewelry, both modern and traditional designs.
• Perfumes and Attars in Dubai: Shop for unique Arabian fragrances, including oud and bakhoor. These scents are perfect for personal use and affordable for gifting purposes.
• Spices in Dubai: If you are keen on Arabic, Pakistani, and Indian flavors, shop for a range of spices, including saffron, cardamom, and exotic spice blends.
• Textiles, especially traditional Emirati clothing, at Old Market Ras Al Khaimah. Shop for abayas and kanduras, along with silk scarves and fabrics.
• Carpets and Rugs: Handwoven Persian and Oriental carpets and rugs are quite a famous pick from UAE and are available in intricate designs and vibrant colors across the Emirates. Do shop for Arabian carpets and tapestries as well.
• Local Handicrafts: Shop for antique wooden boxes, pottery, glassware, and more if you want authentic souvenirs.
• Dates and Date Products: UAE dates are renowned for their quality. You can buy date varieties and date-based products like date syrup and sweets.
• Henna and Incense: Henna cones for body art and various incense options are available for those interested in traditional practices.
• Camel Milk Chocolate: Shop for camel milk with chocolates since this distinctive and delicious souvenir is difficult to find anywhere else.
• Traditional Coffee Pots (Dallahs): These ornate coffee pots used for Arabic ceremonies come in various sizes and designs, making for an eye-catching keepsake. Do shop for traditional Arabian coffee and teapots as well.