Best places to go shopping in Dubai

Dubai is a city of superlatives, of record-breaking skyscrapers and man-made islands. The city’s shopping scene is equally impressive, encompassing the largest mall in the Middle East and the first in the region to house an indoor ski slope. Yet, away from the megastructures, homegrown designers are making their mark on Dubai’s retail landscape with unique wares that celebrate the region’s rich heritage. As a result, you can now enjoy the best of both worlds in this multifaceted city.

Old Dubai

In the historic neighbourhood of Al Fahidi in Bur Dubai, the bustling, canopied Grand Souk (souk meaning “market” in Arabic) offers a glimpse into Dubai’s past. The narrow alleyways and vibrant atmosphere feel straight out of an Arabian folk tale, with vendors calling out as you pass by their shops. From traditional textiles and vintage goods to bakhoor (incense) and custom perfumes, there’s something for everyone here, and at favourable prices, too. Climb aboard a traditional abra, or wooden boat, across Dubai Creek to explore the neighbouring Spice Souk and Gold Souk.

Alserkal Avenue

With a plethora of galleries, boutiques and places to eat and drink, it’s no surprise that Alserkal Avenue is loved by Dubai residents. Discover regionally made handicrafts at Kave, a café and community hub committed to sustainability. The Edit is a concept store offering a range of women’s designer clothing and accessories with a focus on eco-conscious fashion. Meanwhile, Thegoodlife, a premium men’s apparel and sneaker shop, brings together burgeoning and established streetwear brands. Music lovers will adore The Flip Side, the emirate’s first independent vinyl record shop. For stylish sunglasses designed to protect against Dubai’s strong rays, head to the pop-up from local eyewear brand Swey.

Nakheel Mall

Located in one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in Dubai, this premium mall in the Palm Jumeirah houses every multinational brand you could think of – but look more closely and you’ll also find standout regional names. Apotheca Beauty, a cosmetics powerhouse founded by three Kuwaiti sisters, offers a one-stop solution for tried-and-tested skincare, hair and make-up products from across the globe. Jeweller Jawhara, an Emirati brand born from the historic Gold Souk and founded by three brothers of the Abdullah family, is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and modern, sophisticated designs inspired by Middle Eastern heritage.

Dubai Design District (d3)

Playing host to Dubai Fashion Week, Dubai Design Week and SoleDXB, the region’s largest lifestyle and street culture festival, d3 is a hub for everything fashion , arty and homegrown. Make sure to check out up-and-coming luxury abaya designers Hessa Falasi, NAFS and Classy YM for contemporary takes on this traditional garment. Browse high-end streetwear at concept stores like SVD and Frame, the former a trove of limited-edition Nike and Adidas, the latter home to Japanese brands like Comme des Garçons and Undercover. At N.Sefi, you can find elegant fine jewellery made with precious gemstones – on-site piercing is also available.

Mall of the Emirates

While its indoor ski slope often steals the spotlight, this mall remains a must-visit shopping destination too. It was also the first shopping mall in the Middle East to launch an onsite luxury hotel, the Kempinski, allowing you to wake up to a day of retail therapy. Visit That Concept Store, spread across two floors, for a thoughtfully curated selection of designer fashion, beauty products, art and homeware – perfect for picking up unique gifts for friends and family. You also can’t leave without paying a visit to The Giving Movement, a cult-favourite athleisure, streetwear and social impact brand proudly born in Dubai and made in the UAE.

Dubai Mall

Covering 100 hectares, the largest shopping mall in the Middle East needs no introduction. Luxury label enthusiasts should make a beeline for Fashion Avenue, which houses the crème de la crème of international brands. For a traditional market experience in air-conditioned comfort, head to The Souk, where jewellery, textiles and souvenirs are sold in a charming setting – no bargaining required. The adjacent Souk Al Bahar brings together an assortment of boutiques selling antiques, handicrafts and artisanal treasures while offering stunning views of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and Dubai’s waterfront promenade.