Anastasia Smith
Ranked among the Middle East's most popular travel hubs, Abu Dhabi is also a veritable playground for shopaholics of all ages. From bagging branded goods from the city's biggest malls and department stores to finding the best bargains in town, here's where to shop during a trip to Abu Dhabi.
Tipped to be one of the largest shopping malls not only in Abu Dhabi but the U.A.E at large, Yas Mall is a one-stop shopper's paradise like no other. Spread out across an impressive 232,257 m2 the venue boasts over 370 boutiques and shops with more than 68 restaurants vying for the attention of shoppers and diners. Ideally situated close to Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World, Yas Mall is where visitors can find the finest international fashion brands and high-end labels. As an entertainment powerhouse with its own gaming arcades and cinemas, the mall is a big hit with families and children.
With more than 400 retail stores to its name, Marina Mall is another icon among Abu Dhabi shopping centres. Although the venue is perhaps best known for its observation deck and revolving restaurants, locals and expats head to this massive department store mainly to spend time at its adventure theme parks and bowling alleys. Shoppers with a penchant for the finer things will be pleased to find that the Marina Mall houses signature outlets by Yves Saint Laurent, Tiffany & Co, Gucci and Prada among other design houses.
Tourists based at Oaks Liwa Executive Suites or a well-placed deluxe suite in any other accommodation hub in the city must also stop by the Al Wahda Mall during a shopping spree in Abu Dhabi. With 350 stores occupying its plush confines, this mega mall is also where the city's Armani Exchange, Tommy Hilfiger and Victoria's Secret outlets are found. Travellers with a hankering for Japanese, Indian, Spanish, American and Chinese cuisine will also find the restaurants and food court at Al Wahda Mall as impressive as the dining options at any other department store in Abu Dhabi.
Situated near the dhow port, there's no better location for bargain hunters than the sprawling confines of Al Mina Souk. As a traditional Arabian bazaar, the maze-like layout of the souq makes shopping at this marketplace a real adventure. Lined with stores selling everything from aromatic spices, handicrafts, clothing and food items to raw ingredients, Al Mina Souk is also one of the top places to buy tasteful souvenirs, keepsakes and authentic Emirati wares.
Famed for its iconic facade which blends modern and traditional architectural features, the World Trade Center Mall is another enthralling shopper's Mecca in the city. As its name suggests, the mall specializes in products and cuisines hailing from all corners of the globe although the biggest hit with most tourists is its traditional souq.
Travellers looking to contribute to local communities and artists with their retail choices can find stunning threadwork, dresses, essential oils, incense and local arts and crafts at the Women's Handicraft Centre.
