Joanna James
Shopping in Abu Dhabi is a popular activity enjoyed by locals and visitors. The warm and sunny climate of the city during most months of the year makes shopping a chore with the heat, however, the city’s malls and souks have air conditioning or shaded seating to relax for a while and enjoy a break.
Opened two decades ago, this modern mall is in proximity to the Corniche Road with a spectacular view of the Corniche. Stocking a wide collection of clothing, accessories, and other products in an array of shops, this mega mall covers things to delight any lover of shopping, in addition to an IMAX Theatre, an exciting bowling alley, an ice rink and a revolving restaurant. Many visitors to Abu Dhabi including those seeking desert adventures are drawn to the huge Car Showroom at Marina.
Boasting over 200 shops this is an ideal place to shop not only for clothes under different global brands like Zara, H & M, Caroline Herrera and the like but a range of homeware and appliances stores too making it an appealing place to shop for those setting up homes. Complementing these are the coffee shops, cafes and restaurants catering to a diverse clientele.
Centrally located in the old city, this souk represents a fine mix of ancient heritage and architecture blending well with modern high-end boutiques, shops, and cafes. Enjoy fine aromas from a range of spices, nuts, and dried fruits on one side whilst vibrant shawls, souvenirs, and more appeal to your eyes. Be it fashion items, home decor, antique lamps or the wonderful ambience of finding a relaxing corner for an authentic Arabic coffee that draws guests from Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, they certainly value visiting this bustling yet charming souk.
Ideal for those who woo brand names and love to dress up in style. This glamorous mall has over 400 in-store selling of world-class brands such as Dior, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and many more. If not for shopping it is a great place for window shopping and hanging out with the right aesthetics and plenty of options for meals and refreshments.
This is a colourful market full of many delightful things for those whose favourite leisure activities are shopping and browsing. Visitors love this souk for the unique Emirati souvenirs they can pick up from embroidered traditional outfits, henna, perfumes, different textures of textiles, trinkets, spices and the list goes on. If you are a female or a group of females take the chance to go to Mubida Village, which is a section of Al Zafarana. The stalls are ably managed by females and are open to female shoppers. Try your hand at haggling and enjoy it just as much as you would enjoy having some sweets and coffee in a heat-less corner.
Situated right in the business city occupying 03 levels is this elegant souk, Mall World Trade Centre. Be it clothing, jewellery, accessories or spices, artefacts, and perfumes all this and more can be picked up here in air-conditioned comfort. A convenient location to shop for many locals and visitors.
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.
