Joanna James
The Malls and boutiques in Abu Dhabi, attract tourists all year round to satiate their shopping desires, thanks to the no taxes system in the UAE. Here are some places that you can't miss!
To call it a mall would be quite an understatement; apart from having more than 200 stores, the mall also has amusements and cinemas. There are high-end designer boutiques, perfume stalls, gourmet chocolates and delectable pastries. It is located in Zone 1 and is situated close to the Abu Dhabi International Airport and much closer to the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara. The Mall faces the waterfront and the view is spectacular.
The Paris Avenue is an area that is brimming with many established international designers as well as up-and-coming fashion designers who are awaiting their big break. You will not only be getting an exquisitely hand-made clothing but you will also be contributing to the growth of a young designer.
Two malls that you must visit if you are looking to shop for world famous brands such as Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, and Marc Jacobs etc. This is where all the runway and red carpet glamour are housed. Your inner shopaholic will have a hard time trying to resist. However you are here for shopping, so give in to the temptation! These malls are situated in a very central zone and close to many luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi, making it convenient for the shoppers to leave their haul and go back for more!
A "souk" is a traditional Arab bazaar or marketplace and play an important part in the Arab culture. So to experience the local culture and it's the essence of shopping, you must go to souks. There are many souks, the Souk central market, being a popular one. They offer handicrafts, local perfumes and antiques. One must certainly not surpass the opportunity to visit a Carpet Souk. They are filled with exceptional and vibrant rugs. To see them spread across and hanging is quite the sight in itself; you will not see a better variety of patterns and colours like tribal and Persian. Each piece is unique and magical in its own way and you are bound to at least carry a carpet back with you; unless of course, you find yourself a magic carpet like that of Aladdin in which case the carpet will carry you!
Gold and Jewelry is found in abundance in Abu Dhabi. Apart from gold-plated cars, stairways, phone covers and toilets, there is plenty of gold for sale. A popular place is the Madinat Zayed Gold centre- your or the forty thieve's (from Ali Baba and the forty thieves) one-stop for Gold, Pearl and exquisite gem jewellery. A jewellery that you get from UAE will be quite the masterpiece and hold a bit of Arabic magic, making the piece truly a one of a kind.
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.
