Anastasia Smith
Although most tourists head to Dubai to experience its annual shopping festivals and mega malls, the best bargains are to be had in the city's local marketplaces. Here are some souks and bazaars every visitor must explore during a holiday in the desert metropolis.
Travellers on the lookout for one of the city's oldest and most aromatic markets will find no finer alternative to the Spice Souk in Deira. Also called the Dubai Spice Market, this is where locals find essential spices and ingredients to prepare conventional Arab meals and delicacies. Lined with stalls, spices are usually stored and displayed in baskets outside the shops, making this market easily one of the most photogenic local bazaars in the city. In addition to picking up essential spices and condiments, visitors can also learn how to flavour various dishes using these fragrant ingredients by following the guidelines of the vendors. Apart from spices, this is also a great place to pick up quality tea, saffron, nuts and various oils.
As one of the UAE's most ancient marketplaces, the Dubai Gold Souk has been selling all that glitters for literal centuries. While the wares on sale may be too costly for budget travellers, this traditional souk is a highlight tourists shouldn't miss even if they are not on the hunt for diamond, gold or silver jewellery. Occupying pride of place in Deira, the Dubai Gold Souk is one of the best places to pick up a valuable Valentine's Day momento or a birthday gift for loved ones.
Whether one's based at Avani Palm View Dubai or any other Palm Jumeirah hotel in the city, there's no better venuefor Indian products than the bustling Meena Bazaar. Located in what most locals identify as Dubai's very own Little India, it is the place to not only stock up on Indian-origin garments, saris and fabrics but also South Asian fashion items and numerous accessories. Boasting some of the oldest textile and gold shops in Dubai, the Meena Bazaar also specializes in perfumes, furnishings and spices while tourists can also dig into Indian sweets and meals during a shopping spree at this market.
Although Dubai may not be famous for its night markets, the Naif Souk in Deira Street is an exception all travellers must uncover during a trip to the city. Considered one of Dubai's best haunts for handicrafts and souvenirs, this particular bazaar is another market that has been a part of the city's landscape for decades. While local female shoppers may venture down here to pick up Islamic dresses, tourists can find everything from leather products to electronics at this busy marketplace which stays open till 12 am.
Ranked among Dubai's top local markets for fresh produce and food items, the Ripe Market is a community based initiative that also hosts live performances, workshops and even aerobic classes. Shifting its location based on the season, this popular market that's usually held at Al Maryah Island or Academy Park is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon wining and dining or stocking up on crafts.
