Posted 31 March 2023 in Shopping Delight

7 reasons why Dubai is the best place to go shopping

Dubai is a shopping paradise and there is something for everyone starting from high-end shopping malls to traditional souks. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Dubai truly is spectacular for more than one reason. The city has so much to offer; there are skyscrapers, historic monuments, iconic landmarks, adventures, and extraordinary cuisines to try, yet shopping remains one of the most significant activities for visitors.

If you are planning a holiday in Dubai, then make sure you keep aside an entire day to indulge in shopping because you will be spoilt for choices. You can purchase some fashionable clothes to upgrade your wardrobe, discover the cultural markets of the Arab world, buy gold jewellery, exotic spices, and more.

Shopping in Dubai is a unique and extravagant experience. And, if you haven’t experienced it already, then it is time that you fly to Dubai for your next vacation and indulge yourself as the city has a lot to offer. Shopping in Dubai is such an immersive experience because you can find everything - bustling wholesale markets; quiet, artsy boutiques; roadside peddlers; and full-blown flea markets where both the locals and tourists hustle to get a bargain.

Here are some of the most sought-after shopping destinations in Dubai that are often revered as a paradise for shopaholics.

1. Dubai Mall

It is one of the largest shopping complexes in the world and makes it to the top of the list of best places to shop in Dubai. You can find luxurious brands like Versace, Gucci, and Burberry, here. From textiles and footwear to jewellery, candies, and home decor, you can find everything here and pick some souvenirs too. It also has an entertainment zone. So while you are shopping, you can let the children enjoy the play area or spend time in an underwater aquarium. Not only that, but there are restaurants, cafés, and movie theatres.

Time: Dubai Mall is open every day from 10 a.m., and you may require to buy entry tickets to some places inside the mall.

2. Wafi Mall

Located on the Oud Metha Road, the Wafi Mall has a pyramid-shaped facade structure, which is based on an Egyptian theme. The mall consists of 350 stores that have affordable apparel, designer clothes, crafts, home décor items, accessories, and more. There are fine dining options where you can relish delicious food and luxurious stay options as well. So, be ready to shop till you drop.

Time: Wafi Mall is open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. On Thursday and Friday, the mall closes at midnight.

3. Global Village

With a truly global approach, Global Village has marvellous architecture and there are different pavilions designed for different countries. You can buy handmade items such as souvenirs, sweets, clothes, footwear, and taste some traditional dishes.

Time: Global Village remains open from 4 p.m. till 12 a.m. from Saturday to Wednesday, and from 4 p.m. till 1 a.m. on Thursday and Friday.

4. Deira Gold Souk

As the name suggests, you can buy jewellery from here. There are several stores selling traditional gold, silver, and diamond jewellery. You can also buy precious stones or just visit for some window shopping. It is a must-visit place adjacent to Dubai Creek.

Time: Deira Gold Souk is open every day from 9:30 a.m., except on Fridays when it opens at 4 p.m.

5. Mall of the Emirates

While you are in Dubai, don’t forget to visit this iconic shopping place. With over 700 stores, world-class hotels, restaurants, and the largest indoor ski lodge in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), this mall offers you more than just a good shopping experience. You can also watch movies in the VOX complex.

Time: Mall of the Emirates is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., every day.

6. Deira City Center

It is a one-stop destination for shopaholics. You can buy clothes, carpets, watches, and more. The shopping complex offers picturesque views. You can also enjoy fine dining in one of the restaurants here.

Time: You can visit from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. from Sunday to Wednesday, and up to 12 a.m. from Thursday to Saturday.

7. Al Fahidi Street

Street shopping in Dubai is a different experience altogether. It is ideal for tourists who want to explore the diverse culture of Dubai and mix with locals. You can go around the colourful bazaar and buy anything. If you have good bargaining skills, then it is a must-visit. There are no timing restrictions, and you can enjoy a stroll whenever you want to.

Places to visit in Dubai

Apart from shopping, make sure you take a city tour and witness some of the famous tourist sites.

Burj Khalifa: It is the tallest building in the world and offersa panoramic view of the entire city. It is within walking distance from the Dubai Mall and you must visit it to enjoy a memorable moment.
The Dubai Fountain: With a light and sound show, the Dubai Fountain offers a spectacular sight. It is designed by the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Vegas. It is situated on Burj Lake and is known as the world's tallest performing fountain. You can take the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride or go for an evening stroll on the Boardwalk which allows you to get a closer view of the fountain.
Dubai Opera: It is a performing arts centre where you can see theatre, opera, ballet, and more. It is an iconic building that accommodates 2,000 people, and provides you with a glimpse of the culture and heritage of Dubai.

Hotels in Dubai

On your visit to Dubai, you can choose your stay according to your budget. There are reasonably priced hotels, boutique hotels, and luxury hotels. Here are a few prominent hotels in Dubai located in close proximity to the shopping spots.

Holiday Inn Express
Novotel Dubai Deira City Centre
Rove At The Park
Swissotel Living Al Ghurair
Carlton Downtown Hotel

Travel tips

With all that Dubai is famous for, it is best to go prepared and not miss out on things that are important. So, here are a few travel tips that will help you discover Dubai and make you have a hassle-free journey.

With so many attractions in the city, you may not be able to cover all the sites but you must with the newly-made Ain Dubai. You will need to buy an entry ticket, and the view from the largest and tallest observation wheel in the world is definitely worth it.
On your visit to Dubai, don’t forget to enjoy the Arabian dishes. While shopping at souks, you can indulge in some delicious street food.
If you are more of a history enthusiast, then visit the Dubai Museum. You will have to pay a nominal fee for entry.
Don't hesitate to bargain at the local shops.

How to reach?

In order to reach Dubai, you can avail several means of transport.

By road: If you plan to travel to Dubai by road, then you must first have a road map and not rely entirely on Google maps.
By rail: You cannot reach Dubai from India by train.
By air: Dubai International Airport is the busiest airport in the world. The fastest and easiest way to reach Dubai is by flight. IndiGo operates several non-stop and connecting flights to Dubai from major cities throughout India. If you live in any of the metropolitan cities of India, then you can avail a flight to Dubai at a great price.

Climate

Dubai has a desert climate with little/ no rainfall. May is the driest month, and it gets warm and unbearable by August with an average temperature of 35.7°C. Due to the unfavourable weather conditions, very few tourists visit Dubai during this time.

Dubai experiences the lowest average temperature in January, around 19°C. While summer starts at the end of June, the temperature starts reducing in November-December.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to April. The temperatures remain moderate, and you can enjoy outdoor shopping.

Conclusion

A great vacation destination and an even greater shopping destination, Dubai is truly going to win the hearts of tourists as well as shopaholics. During the shopping fests, you can get amazing discounts, and not only that, but you are in for some fun and excitement with all that Dubai has to offer.