Shopping
Shopping in Dubai: the malls, the Gold Souk and the markets by the Creek
Dubai is the city where malls have ski slopes and aquariums, and spices are sold from open sacks by the Creek. Here is our guide to shopping in Dubai, from The Dubai Mall to the Gold Souk in Deira, with the hotels closest to the action.
Outside it is hot and bright. Inside The Dubai Mall it is cool, and in the huge aquarium sharks glide past while people shop right next to it. Fifteen minutes away in Deira, goldsmiths stand shoulder to shoulder and the scent of saffron and cinnamon drifts out of the spice souk. Dubai is two shopping cities in one: the modern malls and the old souks.
You need a few days to do both. Here are the areas we recommend, and the hotels that make it easy.
The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
How to choose where to shop in Dubai
The big one: The Dubai Mall by the Burj Khalifa.
A mall with a ski slope: Mall of the Emirates.
Gold and spices: the souks of Deira on Dubai Creek.
Souvenirs and crafts with a view: Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
Art and design: Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz and City Walk.
Downtown Dubai: The Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping centres in the world, with hundreds of shops, a huge aquarium, an ice rink and its own avenue of luxury brands. Outside are the Burj Khalifa and the fountains, which put on shows in the evening. Allow more time than you think, and use the big maps inside.
Armani Hotel Dubai: inside the Burj Khalifa
Armani Hotel occupies the lower floors of the Burj Khalifa, with direct access to the area around The Dubai Mall. The interiors were designed by Giorgio Armani himself.
The hotel for staying in the world’s tallest building and walking straight to the shops.
Book your shopping break: See rooms at Armani Hotel Dubai
Palace Downtown
By Burj Lake and the fountains
Palace Downtown: by the fountains
Palace Downtown sits by Burj Lake, overlooking the fountains and the Burj Khalifa. The Dubai Mall is a few minutes away, and the hotel is known for its Arabian architecture and pool area.
A classic choice for a shopping break, with evenings by the water.
Book your shopping break: See rooms at Palace Downtown
Deira and Bur Dubai: gold, spices and abras
Old Dubai lies on both banks of Dubai Creek. In Deira you will find the Gold Souk, its windows full of jewellery, and the spice souk with sacks of saffron, incense and dried limes. Take an abra, the traditional wooden boat, across the Creek to the textile market in Bur Dubai. Haggling is normal in the souks.
Al Seef Heritage Hotel
On Dubai Creek
Al Seef Heritage Hotel: on Dubai Creek
Al Seef Heritage is in the restored Al Seef district on Dubai Creek, built in traditional style with wind towers and narrow lanes. The abras and the souks are a short walk away.
For anyone who wants to experience old Dubai, not just the skyscrapers.
Book your shopping break: See rooms at Al Seef Heritage Hotel
Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Mall of the Emirates
Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a modern take on an Arabian bazaar, with narrow lanes, canals and shops selling lanterns, textiles and souvenirs. The Burj Al Arab is right next door. Mall of the Emirates, a little inland, has an indoor ski slope and many of the same brands as The Dubai Mall.
Jumeirah Al Qasr
The palace hotel at Madinat Jumeirah
Jumeirah Al Qasr: at Madinat Jumeirah
Al Qasr is a palace-style hotel at Madinat Jumeirah, with its own beach and boats that carry guests along the canals. The souk is right there, and the Burj Al Arab is a neighbour.
Perfect for combining shopping with beach and pool time.
Book your shopping break: See rooms at Jumeirah Al Qasr
The shopping festival, tax free and customs
The Dubai Shopping Festival is held every year around the turn of the year, with sales, concerts and fireworks. The United Arab Emirates has a scheme that lets tourists reclaim VAT on purchases in participating shops, usually through terminals at the airport. Check the current rules before you travel.
Remember your customs allowances for the journey home, including gold and jewellery. Our guide to buying jewellery and diamonds abroad has more tips.
When should you book your hotel?
November to March: pleasant weather and high season, so book early.
Summer: very hot, but lower hotel prices and plenty of time indoors at the malls.
Flexible rates: choose a cancellable room if you are planning far ahead.
Frequently asked questions about shopping in Dubai
Where is the best shopping in Dubai?
The Dubai Mall is the biggest and best known mall, while Mall of the Emirates has a ski slope and many brands. For gold and spices the souks of Deira are best, and Souk Madinat Jumeirah is good for souvenirs and crafts.
Can tourists get tax free shopping in Dubai?
Yes, the United Arab Emirates has a scheme that lets tourists reclaim VAT on purchases in participating shops. Refunds are usually processed at the airport. Check the current rules before you travel.
Is gold cheap in Dubai?
Gold in Dubai is priced by weight and the gold price, plus a charge for the workmanship. Many visitors find the choice huge and the prices competitive, but compare several shops and remember customs rules when you get home.
When is the Dubai Shopping Festival?
The Dubai Shopping Festival is held every year around Christmas and New Year, usually from December into January. Check the dates for the year you travel.
Where should I stay for shopping in Dubai?
Armani Hotel and Palace Downtown are by The Dubai Mall, Al Seef Heritage is by Dubai Creek and the souks, and Jumeirah Al Qasr is next to Souk Madinat Jumeirah and the beach.