Joanna James
Dubai is a holiday-makers haven, a place of stunning modernism and traditional allures. One of the city's best attractions are the bustling souk's and open-air markets; places to buy some very exotic Arabian goods while enjoying the lively ambience. Listed are the best venues.
The Gold Souk of Dubai is famous the world over, it is, in fact, the one souk you must visit. Located close to Dubai Creek, the souk is minutes away from many 5-star hotels in Abu Dhabi. To get to the souk you need to get across the creek and if you are travelling from hotels such as Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, hop aboard an abra or water taxi and you will soon see the glittering bazaar ahead. Flowing with a dazzling array of gold bracelets, bangles, elaborate bridal necklaces and all things bling, the market is constantly monitored by the government, ensuring the quality of gold and prices are kept to a standard.
The Fabric Souk of Dubai sits next to the Spice Souk. Located within the old trading centre in Bur Dubai this market is a riot of colour with loads of beautifully designed fabrics to choose from; there you can buy high-quality silks and cotton sold from the roll in yards. A top-seller is the hand-spun pashminas, while this souk is home to some of Dubai's most skilled tailors able to turn out excellent quality garments.
This souk is located in Al Ras, strategically placing the market close to the Persian Gulf, thus helping the souk to stock up on exotic spices from across the Middle East; an activity that has been in existence for centuries. You will love the fragrant scents emanating from this bazaar while sights of jute sacks overflowing with colourful leaves and powders are sights to relish. There you can also purchase, incense, shisha, coffee, traditional Arabic perfumes, and frankincense. This souk is not a huge tourist attraction, and still serves the local sailors, hence prices are very reasonable and it's a lovely place to explore for some authentic local flavour.
Part of the huge Madinat Jumeirah region, this souk located on the waterfront is easy to reach from your Palm Jumeirah hotel. Made up of 75 boutique outlets and shops this market emulates a traditional Arabic town. Plenty of restaurants and bars are located in the area, with lovely manmade waterways connecting the eateries to the shops.
This souk is made-up of a row of perfume shops located in the Sikkat Al Khail Road in Deira. It is easy to find if you head east from the Gold Souk. The place is a heavenly sector of sweet fragrances which will leave you stuck for choice. There you will find both traditional Arabic fragrances and top-selling perfumes from across the world. Don't worry if you can't make a choice, the shopkeepers are pretty savvy at choosing the best fragrance for you.
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.
