Shop until you drop takes on a whole new meaning in the Emirate metropolis of Dubai, where days are spent in plush mega malls and high-end department stores, or on the historic streets that have long held the lingering scent of Arabian spice, perfume and the bidding call of market traders.
From traditional souks with authentic bazaars to innovative design centres where artisans are leaving their distinctive mark. The crème de la crème of international brands sit aside 24-carat gold, touristy trinkets and new-release electronics. Whether you’re just browsing, on the hunt for a specific treasure or simply seeking out the visual onslaught of glittering gifts, unique clothing, and fabrics – you will find an impressive collection of everything you can dream of – and more. Deep pockets will add to the pleasure – and there are plenty of great spots for a meal or drink should energy levels dip.
The BusinessClass.com guide to the ten best shopping destinations in Dubai:
Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is an integral part of Downtown Dubai and is equivalent in size to 200 soccer pitches. There are over 1,200 retail stores, two anchor department stores and more than 200 food and beverage outlets – not to mention the Dubai Aquarium which houses thousands of aquatic animals, including sharks and rays within the mall. This is complemented by the interactive and educational Underwater Zoo which provides lessons on the sustainability of marine life. Celebrating high fashion, there are more than 70 signature stores in its dedicated Fashion Avenue with France’s Galeries Lafayette and America’s Bloomingdale’s anchor stores. Level Shoe District is a concept store dedicated to footwear and accessories by some 250 designers coming together under one roof in 40 carefully selected boutiques.
The Village offers a relaxed shopping experience with a mix of lifestyle brands. Additional attractions include Reel Cinemas, KidZania and the Zabelle Sports District. The Dubai Mall also features an Olympic-size Ice Rink that can host international competitions The mall’s promenade is lined with themed cafés and restaurants offering al-fresco dining with a view of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. There is a VIP valet service, Shop & Drop with delivery, and an in-mall chauffeur service.
Address: Downtown Dubai, Dubai
Dubai Gold & Diamond Park
Dubai Gold and Diamond Park was established in May 2001 and covers an expansive area on Sheikh Zayed Road. A treasure trove of some of the world’s finest jewellery, gemstones, precious stones, gold, silver, platinum and high-end personal accessories, the park is an extension of the Jebel Ali Free Zone.
Jewellery and precious metal worth millions can be admired and purchased everywhere you turn, with the option of ordering custom-made items. The Park holds 118 purpose-built manufacturing blocks and leading retailers, making for a one-stop shop for treasure seekers and collectors. In the centre, the courtyard finds a selection of cafés and restaurants for a break between shopping. It is much better cheaper to buy gold in Dubai compared to other countries in the world. Plus, tourists can claim VAT refunds on all purchases before leaving the city.
Address: 4th Interchange, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Al Quoz, Al Qouz Industrial Area 3, Dubai
The Souks
Souk is a market or bazaar in Arabic and you’ll find them all over the city taking you on a colourful and aromatic experience as you wander the streets and discover the heritage of the Arabian shopping culture. The Souk is a distinctive shopping precinct with wide walkways that features jewellery shops, accessory outlets, traditional Arab clothing and handicraft stores. Typically, the stall stalls line either side of the narrow streets that are clustered to the type of goods sold. In these endless mazes of alleys, you will find vendors selling fragrant teas and exotic spices from overfilled baskets, while others entice you to fine silks and exotic tapestries, soothing aromas of scents and perfume.
Souk Al Bahar is a vibrant market situated alongside The Dubai Mall that blends the classic with the modern to offer enthralling shopping, entertainment and dining in over 100 shops and 22 restaurants, cafés and lounges. Souk Al Bahar is also home to the Time Out Market Dubai, a culinary hotspot featuring hand-picked local chefs.
Address: Souk Al Bahar Dubai Mall, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai
City Walk
City Walk is an urban precinct and partially pedestrianised shopping and leisure area in the city’s Jumeirah district that has been turned into an open-air exhibition by global artists. A creative lifestyle space with walls of visual poetry, this is a coveted lifestyle area and one of the best places for a walk in Dubai. The vibrant neighbourhood is packed with exciting activities, shopping spots and dining options. Featuring top designers and international retail offerings, as well as upscale dining, gorgeous residences, car showrooms and offices.
A design-inspired neighbourhood with hundreds of exclusive shops and leisure activities set among 34 low-rise residential buildings, tree-lined avenues and a stunning collection of contemporary street art murals. Also found along the lane are the Canadian University Dubai, The Green Planet, Roxy Cinemas, and some luxury hotels. Due to its vibrant atmosphere, the area is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dubai.
Address: City Walk, Al Wasl junction with Al Safa Road, Jumeirah, Dubai
Deira Creek
Deira runs alongside Dubai Creek – a neighbourhood teeming with character, centuries-old history and spectacular souks that is affectionately known as ‘Old Dubai’. The Creek was constructed in 1961, although the waterway has been the lifeline of the area for centuries, serving as Dubai's main link to the rest of the world.
Some of the UAE's historic attractions are located here and the neighbourhood is considered one of the most affordable and best places to live and work in, it’s a wonderful place from where to enjoy the moody sunsets over the water, and watch the colourful passing dhow boats and the merchants near the Dhow Wharfage. Along the banks of the busy Deira Creek, you’ll find the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, clubhouses, residences and hotels. The Spice Souk and Perfume Souk are nearby.
Address: Baniyas Rd, Deira, Dubai
Mall of Emirates
At Mall of Emirates shop everything from the best fashion and accessories to homeware, electronics, and much more. This massive shopping and entertainment destination attracts hundreds of visitors daily and is undoubtedly one of the most visited attractions in Dubai. Occupying an area of more than 233,467 sqm, Mall of the Emirates opened in the year 2005 as a complete shopping resort.
There are more than 630 retail stores in the Mall of the Emirates that include stores, fashion and lifestyle, sports, home furnishing ad décor. Besides that, there are two 5-star hotels in the Mall of Emirates – the Kempinski Hotel and Sheraton – which means you can take a rest between shopping!
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd, Al Barsha, Al Barsha 1, Dubai
Where to stay: Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates
Global Village
At Global Village taste delicious honey from Yemen or shop exquisite carpets from Iran and Afghanistan, argan oil from Morocco, engraved necklaces from Spain and dry fruits from Thailand. Each pavilion, from Egypt to Italy and Vietnam to Oman, transports visitors to the country through smell, taste, sounds and colourful decorations. Activities include carnival rides, and foodies will want to plan a feast with a taste of international dishes at the many restaurants, cafes and street food kiosks onsite.
Open in December 2019, the Global Village is home to Ripley’s Believe It or Not! 'Odditorium' – a first in the region, this museum attraction has six galleries packed with fascinating artefacts, visual oddities and interactive exhibits.
Address: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, E311 Road, Dubai
Dubai Design District
Dubai Design District or D3 fuses the worlds of design, art and fashion in an area that thrives on the extraordinary and pushes creative boundaries and where you can shop, eat, explore and immerse yourself in design, architecture, fashion and food. An all-encompassing place where you can shop, enjoy a meal, meet friends for coffee or get a workout.
From gorgeous offices with views and attractive studios to homegrown lifestyle boutiques, this is the region’s prime design hub that has something for everyone. A commercial centre for anyone in the creative field, since most fashion, design and interior companies have opened their offices here. But what really makes D3 worth spending a few hours in are the cool concept stores and quirky eateries.
Address: Dubai Design District, Business Bay, Dubai
Alserkal Avenue
Alserkal Avenue is a vibrant community of contemporary art galleries, visual and performing arts, designers, and artisanal spaces. An essential platform for the UAE’s emerging artists and cultural practitioners, creative entrepreneurs, and homegrown initiatives. Where cutting-edge art and culture co-exist with like-minded businesses in an expansive space where artists are commissioned to curate pop-up exhibitions, and activities include art festivals and outdoor fitness sessions. OMA's striking Concrete building hosts prestigious exhibitions and events, and where hip shops sit next to innovative art galleries. The socially responsible enterprise Alserkal Arts Foundation established the avenue on the site of an abandoned marble factory in 2008 as part of its mission to develop creative industries in the UAE. Since its launch, the area has more than doubled in size with art galleries, cafés, and non-profit and retail spaces.
The extension meant that more artists and companies could move in. In addition, several independent shops and innovative spaces, chocolate makers, and Spice Route-inspired bars can be found. A cinema aims to show quality films from around the world. The walls are covered with classic movie posters and a fragrance lab, a classic-car showroom, and free co-working space with a coffee roastery. Founded in 2007 by Emirati businessman and patron Abdelmonem Bin Eisa Alserkal, Alserkal is renowned for ground-breaking artistic productions.
Address: 17th St, Al Quoz, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1, Dubai
Wafi City
WAFI City is a mixed-use development in the heart of Dubai with a range of entertainment to suit both young and old. Focussed on affordable retail, leisure and dining, the complex includes a mall, hotel, restaurants and luxury residences.
Themed to Ancient Egypt with columns reminiscent of Karnak, small pyramids, statues and images of pharaohs and other key figures. There are over 250 stores catering to every whim and interest. Between shopping enjoy a fine dining experience at one of the Wafi City restaurants – and stay on to be entertained in the nightclub.
Address: Oud Metha Rd, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai
If you are planning to visit Dubai, head to our exclusive Dubai Guide
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