Traditional and Modern: Which are the Best Souks in Dubai

Dubai seems often described as the ideal destination for spending money. The city’s expansiveness isn’t the only reason for this. There are a dozen traditional and modern markets, which usually called souks. The colors and the beauty of the items for sale there attract shopping lovers.

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In this article, we try to summarize the best shopping experience and overview the traditional Dubai souks and modern markets that pretend to be the best shopping places.

Classic Souks

The city contains several dozen souks. These markets often spread out several pedestrian streets. Each souk has its own unique feel and can only sell one type of thing. The treasures inside will delight the shopper in you. Here are some of them.

Gold Souk

Surely, the most well-known Dubai souk. The Gold Souk is the right place for lovers of beautiful jewelry. It is the biggest market in the Arabian Peninsula and is in Deira district. You can marvel at the work of jewelry craftsmen there. If you want to bring back something special from Dubai, go to the Gold Souk.

Do not miss the chance to witness the world largest golden ring. It’s in a display at the entrance of the Dubai Gold Souk. It weighs 63,856 kilos, took 55 workers working 10 hours a day for 45 days to make. And, of course, its price is estimated at $3 million.

Spice Souk

Not far from the Gold Souk, you’ll find the Spice one. You will feel like you are on an exotic trip when you smell the smells and colors here. Although this is the spice market, you can buy other delicacies like dried fruits, tea blends, and candied nuts, among many other things. And, of course, you are welcome to try before you buy.

Perfume Souk

You can find the Perfume Souk by continuing along Souk Sikkat Al Khali. You will explore different fragrances in this universe, including perfumes, essential oils, incense sticks, and traditional Oud here. And not only that, but you can use their expertise to make your own fragrance. It also gives you a chance to bring back a custom-made souvenir.

Textile Souk

Finally, do not ignore the Textile Souk. You’ll find fine silks, light cottons and sari fabrics here. It is along the Creek (Bur Dubai). Visit it both to look at fabrics and buy them. You can then go to a nearby tailor to make a specially designed garment.

Modern Souks

Tradional Dubai souks aren’t the only ones that have a vintage feel, either. We would like to suggest you go looking for some of modern ones.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Even though it is built the same way as classic souks, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is very modern. It is situated at the entrance of the 5-star Madinat Jumeirah hotel. You can visit different stalls offering vintage and new products here. It’s a feast for the eyes, even though the prices are often high.

Dubai Mall Souk

You’ll find this souk on the first floor of the Dubai Mall. It comprises no less than 30 shops. You can enjoy or buy various items like jewelry, gems, precious metals, and various articles. It’s the perfect place to find a memorable and timeless souvenir to bring back in your suitcase.

Souk Al Bahar

Similar to Madinat Jumeirah, this one is located between Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. It may be of less tourist interest than other souks. But Al Bahar offers numerous restaurants. It’s the perfect opportunity to take a break before exploring the other magical places in Dubai. You can take advantage of this to see the majestic musical fountains.

Souk Al Marfa

There are more than 400 shops in an air-conditioned space at the waterfront. If you like multiculturalism, this souk is perfect. You’ll find carpets, spices, clothing, and electronic items. You can get the perfect gift here.

Tips for Fashion Lovers

Here are some valuable guidelines to assist you in maximizing the splendor of Dubai’s souks. Firstly, try to avoid clothes that reveal the belly or shoulders. It is recommended to dress modestly in public places to respect local customs. Except for Al Marfa, which is air-conditioned, the souks are best visited in the late evening when it’s less hot.

You can enjoy interesting sales during certain periods, like The Dubai shopping festival in the winter months or Dubai summer surprises, which takes place from June to September.