Dubai is a city known for its extravagance, luxury, and one-of-a-kind shopping experiences. Whether you are strolling through the glitzy malls filled with designer labels or navigating the bustling souks where traditions are deeply rooted, Dubai offers endless opportunities to shop for unique, high-quality items. With its incredible mix of modern opulence and rich heritage, Dubai caters to all types of shoppers. Whether you’re a fan of high-end jewellery, intrigued by exotic spices, or drawn to the glittering allure of gold, this desert metropolis has something special for everyone.

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But what exactly should you buy in Dubai that captures the true essence of this vibrant city? Let’s explore ten must-buy items from Dubai that will make perfect souvenirs or thoughtful gifts for your loved ones.

What is Famous in Dubai to Buy?

Here is the list of items that you should definitely take with you from Dubai:

1. Dubai Gold

2. Arabian Perfumes

3. Arabic Coffee and Coffee Pots (Dallah)

4. Pashmina Shawls

5. Dates and Dry Fruits

6. Dubai Spices

7. Camel Milk Chocolate

8. Carpets and Rugs

9. Arabic Lanterns

10. Abaya and Kandora

1. Dubai Gold: A Shimmering Legacy

Gold is synonymous with Dubai, and there's a good reason. The "City of Gold" is not just a catchy nickname; it represents Dubai's historical association with gold trading, where merchants have traded in the precious metal for generations. Dubai’s Gold Souk is a vibrant marketplace where you will find hundreds of stores showcasing elaborate gold jewellery pieces, catering to traditional as well as contemporary tastes. Dubai's gold is sold with exceptionally high purity levels, and buyers are assured of authenticity thanks to government regulations and frequent inspections.

• Where to buy: Gold Souk in Deira, The Dubai Mall Gold Souk.

• Price range: Depending on current gold rates, pieces can range from AED 500 to tens of thousands of dirhams, depending on weight and design.

• Authenticity identification: Look for the hallmark indicating the purity (e.g., 18k, 22k, 24k), and always request a certificate of authenticity.

Please note: Before purchasing gold, check your home country’s customs regulations regarding specific duty-free allowances and requirements for declaring gold.

2. Arabian Perfumes: The Fragrance of the Middle East

Perfumes are an essential part of Arabian culture. The art of perfumery in the Middle East dates back thousands of years, and traditional Arabian perfumes are famous for their rich, lingering aromas. They are often made with a blend of essential oils, exotic spices, and rare ingredients. Oud (a resinous wood) and Amber are prominent fragrances used in perfumes here, offering different scents.

• Where to buy: Ajmal Perfumes, Swiss Arabian outlets, and the Perfume Souk in Deira.

• Price range:  AED 100 to AED 3000 or more.

• Authenticity identification: Ensure the perfume is packaged with an authenticity label and bought from well-known shops or perfumeries.

Unique fact: Unlike Western perfumes, Arabian scents are typically oil-based, which makes them more intense and long-lasting.

3. Arabic Coffee and Coffee Pots: Brew Your Dubai Memories

Coffee has deep cultural significance in the UAE and much of the Arab world. Arabic coffee, also known as "gahwa," is traditionally brewed with cardamom and saffron, making it aromatic and distinct. The dallah, a traditional Arabic coffee pot, is iconic and symbolises Arabian hospitality. Arabic coffee is more of an experience than just a drink, reflecting warmth and hospitality in Arabian culture.

• Where to buy: Coffee Souk in Deira, Bateel shops, supermarkets like Carrefour, and The Dubai Mall.

• Price range: Coffee AED 50-200,  A brass or silver dallah AED 150 to AED 1000.

• Authenticity Identification: Genuine dallahs are made from brass or silver and often include intricate Arabic engravings.

Unique Fact: Serving coffee in a dallah is an age-old tradition in Arabian culture, and guests are always served with their right hand.

4. Luxurious Pashmina Shawls: Wrap Yourself in Elegance

Pashmina shawls are among Dubai’s most sought-after textiles, famed for their softness and warmth. Authentic pashmina wool comes from the Changthangi goat found in the Himalayas. In Dubai, you’ll find genuine cashmere shawls in vibrant colours and delicate patterns, making for a luxurious accessory.

• Where to buy: Textile Souk in Bur Dubai, Pashmina House, and Karama Market.

• Price range: AED 500 to AED 1500.

• Authenticity identification: A true pashmina shawl is extremely soft and has a distinctive lightweight feel. If a pashmina can pass through a ring easily, it is likely authentic.

5. Dates and Dry Fruits: A Sweet Taste of the Desert

Dates have been a staple in the diet of the Arabian Peninsula for centuries. They are valued not only for their nutritional value but also for their cultural significance during celebrations like Ramadan. Dubai offers dates, from the common Ajwa and Medjool to exotic chocolate-covered versions. Dates are a symbol of Middle Eastern culture and hospitality. They have also been cultivated in this region for over 6,000 years.

• Where to buy: Bateel stores, Spice Souk, and supermarkets like Carrefour.

• Price range: Regular dates cost AED 30-60 per kg, while premium stuffed or chocolate-covered dates cost AED 100-300 per kg.

• Authenticity identification: Look for a glossy texture, and make sure there is no sugar crystallisation on the surface, which indicates freshness.

6. Dubai Spices: Flavors from the Heart of Arabia

Dubai’s spices are as colourful as its culture, offering everything from saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon to sumac and za’atar. For those who love cooking or wish to take home a fragrant reminder of Dubai, the spice souk offers a vast range of aromatic spices sourced from different parts of the world. The Spice Souk is an experience filled with vibrant colours and heady aromas; it offers spices, herbs, and even incense that represent Dubai’s history as a trading hub.

• Where to buy: Spice Souk in Deira, supermarkets like Carrefour, and organic stores like Organic Foods & Café.

• Price range: Saffron is usually AED 30-50 per gram, while other spices can start as low as AED 10 for small packets.

• Authenticity identification: Saffron threads should be bright red, and authentic spices should have a potent aroma.

Did you know? The Spice Souk has been a bustling marketplace for over 50 years and is still one of Dubai’s most visited spots for an authentic experience.

7. Camel Milk Chocolate: A Sweet Arabian Treat

Camel milk chocolate is a distinctly Arabian creation, made using milk from camels native to the UAE. This chocolate is smooth and creamy, with a subtle hint of saltiness. Al Nassma is the most popular brand offering this unique confection. It’s a unique, delicious treat that you won't find easily elsewhere. It’s also a conversation starter for anyone receiving it as a gift.

• Where to buy: Al Nassma kiosks at The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Dubai Duty-Free shops.

• Price range: AED 25 for a small bar to AED 150 for luxury gift sets.

• Authenticity identification: Al Nassma is the primary brand offering camel milk chocolate, so look for their distinctive camel logo.

Unique Fact: Camel milk is known as "white gold" due to its nutritional properties, and camel milk chocolate is considered a local delicacy.

8. Carpets and Rugs: Weave in a Piece of Dubai

Carpet weaving is an art intrinsic to the Middle East, and Dubai is an ideal place to purchase high-quality carpets from Iran, Turkey, or Afghanistan. Handwoven rugs are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colours. Middle Eastern carpets are hand-knotted, with each knot representing hours of craftsmanship, making each rug a unique piece of art.

• Where to buy: The Carpet Souk in Deira, Carpet Oasis (during DSF), and Oriental Carpet shops in malls.

• Price range: Depending on the material and knot density, carpets can range from AED 500 for small pieces to AED 20,000 or more.

• Authenticity identification: Handwoven rugs have irregularities on the back, and the knots are visible compared to machine-made ones.

9. Arabic Lanterns: A Light into Arabian Nights

Arabic lanterns, or "fanous," are iconic elements in Middle Eastern décor. These beautifully crafted lanterns come in various shapes, sizes, and materials and are designed to cast intricate light when lit. Arabic lanterns have been part of cultural celebrations such as Ramadan for centuries, symbolising light and spirituality.

• Where to buy: Dragon Mart, The Souk at The Dubai Mall, and home décor shops.

• Price range: AED 50 to AED 500 

• Authenticity Identification: Authentic Arabic lanterns are usually made of metal and glass and have intricate engravings or cutwork.

10. Abaya and Kandora: Traditional Arabian Attire

The Abaya (for women) and Kandora (for men) are traditional garments in the UAE. The abaya is a long, flowing black gown symbolising modesty and elegance, often embellished with fine embroidery or crystals. These garments reflect the UAE's culture and heritage. They are designed for comfort and modesty and are often embellished with contemporary designs.

• Where to buy: Souk Al Bahar, Satwa district, and various boutiques in The Dubai Mall.

• Price range: AED 100 to AED 3000.

• Authenticity Identification: Authentic abayas are made of high-quality fabrics like crepe or chiffon, with hand-sewn embroidery or Swarovski crystals.

Honourable Mentions for Unique Finds in Dubai

Apart from the items listed, here are some special mentions of things to buy in Dubai:

1. Oud and Bakhoor: Traditional incense and fragrances are often used in Arabian homes for a distinct and luxurious aroma.

2. Designer Handbags: Dubai’s luxury malls are famous for tax-free shopping, making designer handbags more affordable than in other regions.

3. Luxurious Watches - High-end timepieces from brands like Rolex, Cartier, and Omega are popular due to competitive pricing and authenticity assurance.

4. Shisha (Hookah) Pipes - Authentic and beautifully decorated shisha pipes, often used in traditional gatherings, are available in various sizes.

5. Designer Clothing and Fabrics - Dubai’s malls offer international designer clothing, often tax-free, while local markets provide a range of luxurious fabrics for custom tailoring.

Final Thought

Dubai is more than just skyscrapers and opulent attractions; it is also a treasure trove of cultural gems that make for perfect keepsakes. From gold jewellery to luxurious pashminas, each of these items has a story that connects it to the rich history and vibrant culture of the region. Shopping in Dubai offers a journey that is much more than simply making a purchase. It’s about experiencing the traditions, the craftsmanship, and the Arabian spirit that define this magnificent city. So, pack light, leave room in your luggage, and get ready to bring home a piece of Dubai.