What to Buy in Dubai

The Ultimate Guide to Unique Souvenirs and Products to Buy in Dubai

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and innovations, making it an exciting destination not only for sightseeing but also for shopping. From traditional crafts to luxurious items, Dubai offers a plethora of unique products that make for perfect souvenirs or gifts. In this guide, we’ll explore 15-20 must-buy items, including where to find them, price ranges, and tips for ensuring you get the best quality.

Traditional Crafts

1. Arabic Coffee Pot (Dallah)

What it is: An ornate pot used for brewing Arabic coffee.
Why it’s special: It symbolizes hospitality and is a staple in Emirati culture.
Where to buy: The Dubai Gold Souk or the Dubai Mall.
Price range: AED 50 - AED 300.
Quality tips: Look for brass or silver-plated options; avoid plastic imitations.
Authenticity check: Genuine dallahs often feature intricate designs, so inspect craftsmanship.

2. Handcrafted Carpets

What it is: Traditional Persian or Arabian carpets.
Why it’s special: Each carpet tells a story, woven with cultural motifs.
Where to buy: The Carpet Souk in Deira.
Price range: AED 200 - AED 10,000 depending on size and craftsmanship.
Quality tips: Check for knots per square inch; higher counts indicate better quality.
Authenticity check: Request a certificate of authenticity for high-end pieces.

3. Camel Leather Goods

What it is: Items like bags, wallets, and belts made from camel leather.
Why it’s special: Camel leather is known for its durability and unique texture.
Where to buy: Souk Madinat Jumeirah or Dubai Mall.
Price range: AED 100 - AED 1,000.
Quality tips: Feel the leather; authentic camel leather is soft yet sturdy.
Authenticity check: Look for branding that specifies camel leather.

Local Food Items

4. Dates

What it is: Sweet fruit that is a staple in Middle Eastern diets.
Why it’s special: Dates are often stuffed with nuts and flavored with spices.
Where to buy: Bateel boutiques or local markets.
Price range: AED 30 - AED 300 per kg.
Quality tips: Look for plump, glossy dates without blemishes.
Authenticity check: Opt for known brands like Bateel for quality assurance.

5. Saffron

What it is: A spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus.
Why it’s special: Renowned for its flavor and vibrant color, it’s a culinary treasure.
Where to buy: Spice Souk in Deira.
Price range: AED 100 - AED 500 per gram.
Quality tips: Look for deep red strands; avoid yellow or orange strands.
Authenticity check: Request a sample and check for aroma.

Spices and Condiments

6. Za’atar

What it is: A blend of dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, sesame seeds, and sumac.
Why it’s special: It’s a versatile seasoning used in many Middle Eastern dishes.
Where to buy: Spice Souk or local supermarkets.
Price range: AED 20 - AED 100 per packet.
Quality tips: Freshness matters; buy from busy stalls for the best turnover.
Authenticity check: Check for a strong, aromatic scent.

7. Arabic Spices Mix

What it is: A blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cardamom.
Why it’s special: Essential for authentic Middle Eastern cooking.
Where to buy: Spice Souk or Al Ain Cooperative Society.
Price range: AED 15 - AED 70.
Quality tips: Choose a mix that’s vibrant in color.
Authenticity check: Smell the mixture; fresh spices have a distinct aroma.

Textiles and Clothing

8. Pashmina Scarves

What it is: Luxurious scarves made from fine cashmere wool.
Why it’s special: Perfect for both warmth and style, often handwoven.
Where to buy: Souk Madinat Jumeirah or Global Village.
Price range: AED 100 - AED 1,500.
Quality tips: Check the softness and weight; higher-quality pashminas feel lighter.
Authenticity check: Look for a label indicating 100% pashmina.

9. Emirati Kandura and Abaya

What it is: Traditional attire worn by Emirati men and women.
Why it’s special: It reflects the rich Emirati culture and heritage.
Where to buy: Local boutiques or Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood.
Price range: AED 200 - AED 1,500.
Quality tips: Inspect stitching and fabric quality.
Authenticity check: Purchase from reputable stores for genuine designs.

Jewelry and Accessories

10. Gold Jewelry

What it is: Exquisite jewelry crafted from 18K or 22K gold.
Why it’s special: Dubai is known as the “City of Gold.”
Where to buy: Dubai Gold Souk.
Price range: AED 200 - AED 10,000+ depending on design.
Quality tips: Look for the hallmark indicating purity.
Authenticity check: Buy from established stores with a good reputation.

11. Pearl Jewelry

What it is: Jewelry made from locally sourced pearls.
Why it’s special: Dubai has a long history of pearl diving.
Where to buy: Jewelers in Dubai Marina or Gold Souk.
Price range: AED 100 - AED 5,000.
Quality tips: Check for luster and surface quality.
Authenticity check: Request certification for high-end pieces.

Artwork and Home Decor

12. Arabesque Art

What it is: Intricate designs inspired by Islamic art.
Why it’s special: Each piece is unique and reflects local culture.
Where to buy: Alserkal Avenue or various galleries in Dubai.
Price range: AED 200 - AED 5,000.
Quality tips: Look for detailed craftsmanship.
Authenticity check: Buy directly from artists or reputable galleries.

13. Framed Calligraphy

What it is: Artistic representations of Arabic script.
Why it’s special: It combines art and language in a unique form.