Joanna James
Carpets, gorgeous textiles and elegant jewellery are just a few of the fabulous products to buy in Abu Dhabi. Catering to both budget and high-end shoppers the markets and shops are a treat to browse.
Abu Dhabi is probably one of the best places to buy gold. Available in 18, 21, 22 and 24 carats, gold is priced according to the daily rate on the international market. You most certainly will enjoy your gold shopping tour for the designs are absolutely mesmerising. Choose from the modern clean cut designs inspired by western tastes or simply splurge and feel like royalty as you purchase a very elegant and elaborately crafted Arabian design wedding jewellery. Buying gold ingots is quite popular amongst tourists considering this as an investment or to have it crafted to a personal design. The most popular place to buy gold in Abu Dhabi would be the Gold Souk in Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre; this is the largest in the Gulf while shopping malls are home to Cartier, Tiffany & Co, Chopard and others.
Bringing back memories of Aladdin, the beautiful carpets for sale in Abu Dhabi originate in Iran, Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Central Asia and China. An exquisite collection of designs and colours will mesmerise you making choosing a tough task. You should first browse a number of shops before purchasing in order to get a feel of prices, quality and choice of design. Carpets and rugs from Iran are generally the most expensive while wool will cost less than silk. Also, machine made carpets are much cheaper than the handmade variety which can be identified by uneven piles; these, however, are more authentic and beautiful than the modern versions. You would probably sit on one of these magnificent handmade creations when enjoying a meal at an Abu Dhabi desert restaurant offering you a glimpse of ancient Arab heritage. At the Port edge of Mina Road, you will come across the Carpet Souk and Mina Souk for a vast collection of carpets.
Bargain shopping applies at all outlets in Dubai, whether it's a souk or a high end boutique it doesn't hurt to ask for 'the best price'. Remember to ask for this several times and while you may get a 50% discount at the gold souk, ritzy outlets like Tiffany & Co. may not be as generous; you can still ask though as part of the accepted norm in Abu Dhabi.
Quite a fascinating round, souvenir shopping in Abu Dhabi is a treat. Indulge in the exotic beauty if Abu Dhabi's heritage by looking for traditional souvenirs. These could be elaborate handmade carpets or tiny carved pillboxes that would be half the price outside of the city. Look for exquisite jewellery reflecting Arabic styles, silk garments, wooden ornaments, spices and local art. Visiting areas such as the Liwa Desert's Empty Quarter, home to Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara and traditional Bedouin tribes you will come across authentic cultural handcrafts that will make excellent souvenirs and gifts.
Oud is a luxury scent made from the gum of the Agarwood tree. Each type of oud exudes a different scent when burnt and was a valuable product even in the past. You can buy oud as chips and blocks together with special oil burners.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
