Dubai Shopping Guide: Malls, Souks & Best Buys
Dubai is a shopper's paradise with everything from world-class malls to traditional gold souks. This guide covers the best places to shop, what to buy, and how to get the best deals. For the ultimate shopping experience, visit during the Dubai Shopping Festival (December-January).
Updated: January 2025•6 min read
Dubai Shopping Highlights
🏬 80+
Shopping Malls
🏺 20+
Traditional Souks
💎 0%
Tax on Gold
🛍️ DSF
Annual Shopping Festival
Top Shopping Destinations
The Dubai Mall
Mega Mall📍 Downtown Dubai
Best For:
Luxury brandsElectronicsFashionEntertainment
Price Range: All budgets
Mall of the Emirates
Mega Mall📍 Al Barsha
Best For:
High-street fashionSki DubaiDiningCinema
Price Range: Mid to Luxury
Gold Souk
Traditional Market📍 Deira
Best For:
Gold jewelryCustom designsBargaining experience
Price Range: Budget to Luxury
Spice Souk
Traditional Market📍 Deira
Best For:
SpicesPerfumesTraditional itemsSouvenirs
Price Range: Budget
Dubai Outlet Mall
Outlet Mall📍 Dubai-Al Ain Road
Best For:
Discounted brandsOff-season itemsBudget shopping
Price Range: Budget to Mid
City Walk
Open-Air District📍 Al Wasl
Best For:
Boutique storesConcept shopsStreet artDining
Price Range: Mid to Luxury
What to Buy in Dubai
💰 Best Value Purchases
- • Gold & jewelry: No tax, competitive prices
- • Electronics: Often cheaper than US/UK
- • Perfumes: Arabic oud and designer brands
- • Spices & dates: Authentic and affordable
⚠️ Shopping Tips
- • Bargain in souks (start at 50% of asking price)
- • Check for Tourist Tax Refund eligibility
- • Compare prices before buying electronics
- • Carry cash for traditional markets