If travelers to Dubai are avid shoppers then welcome to paradise. Considered as the Mecca of shoppers and made popular due to its bargains and outrageous prizes in the form of gadgets and fancy cars, this is more than the perfect place for shop-a-holics.
The options for purchases range from gold jewelry, to spices, digital goods, branded items to basically anything one could think of. A major attraction for shoppers to Dubai is the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) which takes place every year. Here the craziest bargains and promotions could be found, where even things like Porsches are given away as raffle prizes.
Meeting local people out doors while bargaining, and getting accustomed to their way of life, is one thing, but with the scorching sun, the malls in Dubai are a better bet. Plus when traveling with family, it’s not just about stores, it’s also about places to entertain and socialize as well.
The malls in Dubai consist of movie theatres, bowling alleys, beauty salons, art galleries, mosques etc.
The Mall of the Emirates is by far the more popular out of the lot. It is one of the largest malls, and is a marvel to behold with a skylight and marble floors. The ranges of stores are all up market, from branded retailers to designer labels, they all here. The mall also includes restaurants, such as Emporio Armani Café, Apres, and Momo’s Almaz.
If stepping into a Middle Eastern Bazaar is on the list, then visitors could also step into something similar, the active souqs which have made Dubai famous will not disappoint. Having been involved in trading and opened several trading ports, Dubai is no stranger to bargains.
The souqs in Dubai may not be picturesque but the atmosphere surrounding the place is infectious and it’s definitely a hive of activity. It is here that everyday people descend to bargain and purchase daily items. From spices, to Indian saris, to cooking utensils this place is loaded with goods to choose from.
With personal preference aside one cannot visit the Middle East without stocking up on – textiles, gold, perfume, carpets or frankincense. These are among Dubai’s best buys.
The textile souq in Dubai is where one can pick up fabrics in vibrant colours, antiques, slippers etc. The Karama Souq is another place for good bargains. It’s more of a shopping complex than a souq, but plenty of souvenirs could be picked up for cheap.
Relaxing after a fantastic shopping experience would be ideal at a Dubai luxury hotel. The Shangri- La Hotel, Dubai is a perfect option, since its just 15 minutes from the airport, and close to Dubai’s tourist and business centres. This Dubai hotel is one of the premier hotels among those in the UAE.