Joanna James
Famed for ultramodern architecture in the realms of Burj Khalifa and high-end shopping, Dubai is a fascinating city which is also steeped in culture and tradition. An excellent way to experience these is by visiting a few souks selling local spices, indigenous objects and more as you would discover.
Savour a wonderful glimpse into the country's authentic shopping culture as you stroll through this bustling marketplace. Despite the modern buildings thronging the city of Dubai, this historical souk situated right on the creek in Bur Dubai retains the look and feel of an ancient era with makeshift stalls still exist piled high with pashmina shawls, abayas, kaftans and sarees of every imaginable hue. In short hundreds of varieties of fabrics are sold here, sit and relax as you choose your piece of the garment or a colourful fabric and be treated to a steaming glass of sweet tea. Be bold and haggle as you can find good bargains at this charming marketplace.
A vibrant trading venue since the mid-19th century due to its proximity to the Creek harbour where merchant ships from Africa and India docked, you learn to appreciate the historical significance of this souk as you navigate the narrow alleyways. Located close to many hotels in Dubai Deira the likes of Avani Deira Dubai Hotel, your stroll through the souk will be a profound experience of aromas and an explosion of colours. Piles of saffron, cinnamon, cumin, vanilla etc, varieties of tea and other ingredients keep enticing you to venture inside and check out the spices at close quarters and even haggle and buy some of the items to take back home.
Enter an arena of covered walkways and streets stretching endlessly with over 300 retail outlets, and dazzling and enchanting displays of all kinds of jewellery in 18 to 24-karat gold easily the biggest gold souk in the Middle East. Chains, bracelets, bangles, eardrops, rings and necklaces. Some are dainty and eye-catching attracting the trendsetters whilst others are elaborate and grandiose with intricate craftsmanship chosen by discerning customers. If you are shopping to buy a few pieces for yourself or as gifts, take your time to look around, try them on and even negotiate the price as the cost of craftsmanship is open for negotiation.
As perfumes are not alcohol based in Arabian culture, the perfume oils are layered on. Oud is the most popular agarwood essential oil and is used as an undertone for many Arabian perfumes sold at Deira Perfume souk, attracting many visitors from properties such as Avani Deira Dubai Hotel making this souk a major tourist attraction in Dubai. A bevvy of different fragrances emanates from this souk which has tinges of spice and woody undertones.
Don't be too over-awed by the name, this souk is home to many types of ware and anyone can pick something to own or to give as a gift from this souk. Well-crafted souvenirs with the authentic Emirati touch, spices, groceries, kitchen utensils, ceramic ware, traditional Arab shoes, wonderfully soft Persian rugs and many more things to delight you and keep you engrossed for hours.
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.
