Joanna James
If you decide to visit the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi, you’ll be stepping into a shopping haven like no other. The city is filled with massive malls, traditional boutiques and souqs, as well as vibrant marketplaces, ensuring that shoppers have plenty to explore and wander at. Additionally, another good reason to shop in Abu Dhabi is the vast number of items and products you will find that are unique to the region and its culture. If you are looking to bring back a little slice of Arabian culture with you, here is a list of some of the must-buy items and where you can find them in Abu Dhabi.
The UAE is known for having some of the best antique carpets that serve more than a hint of opulence and charm. If you want to add a touch of colour and sophistication to your interior there are plenty of options to choose from; Arabian carpets are available in various patterns, sizes, designs, colours and materials and are also produced in several ways including by hand or machine. The best place to start your hunt for carpets is at the Carpet Souk where you can explore several carpet shops to get a feel for the range of carpets and their prices.
Another way to carry around the essence of Arabia with you is by purchasing a signature Arabic perfume. Many Arabic perfumes carry the essence of oud derived from the Agarwood tree, a scent which has been used in the region for a long time. Do note that there are many types of oud available and it can be bought separately either in blocks or chips which you can then add to your perfume. Or you can find plenty of oud oils which are also used as long-lasting perfumes. Some of the best places to shop for Arabic perfumes include the Abu Dhabi Mall, the Yas Mall and the Central Market Souk.
One of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi is shop for dates, as these make for excellent edible souvenirs that you can take home to enjoy. Dates occupy a significant place in Arabian heritage and are a vital source of nutrition, infused with fibre and antioxidants that fight diseases. You’ll find a variety of dates that you can choose from including those that are natural, flavoured, chocolate-covered, camel milk-covered and even those that are stuffed with almonds. You can find high-quality dates and related products at places like Abu Dhabi Dates Market, the Al Reef Dates Centre and Souq Al Mina, all of which are about an hour away if you’re staying at Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat.
Arabic coffee pots or Dallah are great aesthetic souvenirs to bring home from Abu Dhabi to be used as vessels or home decor items. These pots have been used for centuries to brew and serve coffee and tea in the region, and thus form a unique part of Arabic culture. They are available in various shapes and sizes, are often gold or silver plated and are adorned with beautiful painted patterns. You can find some of the region’s most enchanting coffee pots at the Central Market Souk.
The art of weaving has occupied a significant place in Arabic culture for centuries and produces the finest handcrafted items including table runners, pillow covers, bags, purses, bedsheets and more. This unique tradition and craft is kept alive through The Sougha initiative launched by the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise and Development, which aims to empower local female artists to preserve their Emirati culture and artistic skills. Purchasing these unique items from the Sougha store at the Central Market is a great way to support the local communities and their culture while also bringing home a great set of souvenirs.
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.
