Dubai is incredible. The city is changing and becoming the hub of business, tourism, entertainment and of course Arabian shopping. We can safely say that today Dubai is the shopping capital of the world. On this city alone there are over 100 shopping malls. Add the traditional Souks and you have endless options. Explore the best shopping spots of this modern city and make your holiday unforgettable.
Enter The Next Generation Shopping World
A new concept of stores – huge shopping malls where retailers bring together boutiques of top brands and add various entertainment and leisure facilities. We’ve selected five for you.
The Biggest Mall in Dubai
The beautiful Dubai Mall is a gem of the UAE. The mall space covers more than 1.1 million square meters where over 1500 stores are located. Inside the mall you will find the world’s best luxury: Dior, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci and others) and mid-range and mass market stores. You can say that in this mall everyone will find something to buy and take as the best Dubai souvenirs.
Mall of the Emirates
Another huge mall with over 700 stores of all the big brands. And don’t be surprised to see people with skiing gear around because the highlight of this mall is Dubai’s only indoor ski resort with real snow and extreme slopes.
Ibn Battuta Mall
An amazing mall building named after the Arab traveler. Not only are the 300 or so stores of world famous brands stunning but also the architecture of the place. It’s a themed leisure and shopping complex, each section of which is designed after the countries Ibn Battuta visited: China, India, Persia, Egypt, Tunisia and Andalusia.
Dubai Festival City Mall
On the banks of Dubai Creek is a family entertainment and shopping mall that attracts visitors not only with 400 stores but also with live shows. When you visit this mall you will not only shop leisurely but also watch laser and fountain shows. If you’re with your family, choose this location as kids will love the play areas and cinemas and adults can spend some quality time in one of the restaurants with stunning views of the marina.
City Walk
This isn’t just another big mall. It’s an entire shopping and entertainment district. Like European Passages, the center is designed as a walkway with premium boutiques, designer stores, restaurants and other leisure and relaxation areas. Just be aware that there are no escalators here and you’ll have to walk a lot. But if you get tired, there are electric cars inside that will give you a ride to your desired location for just a few dirhams.
How to Get Around: Rent a Car for a Smooth Shopping Experience
Before you go on a shopping spree, think about how you’ll get around between these locations. Tourist guides tell you to take the metro. But we know how uncomfortable it is to squeeze with multiple bags and purchases on public transportation. The average distance between malls is more than 20-30 minutes by car so taxis are also expensive. The best option is to book a rental car with a local rental company and take some days off to enjoy a stress free drive between Dubai’s best malls.
Dubai Traffic Tips to Keep in Mind When Shopping by Rental Car
Renting a car allows you to visit some of the best shopping spots in Dubai in one day. But here are a few things to keep in mind about the roads. Rush hour is not the best time to go out as there will be heavy traffic on the roads and parking of malls will be hard to find empty slots. Shopping by rental car in Dubai during lunch time or after sunset, visitors to the malls will not have any problem visiting the best stores in comfort and without wasting too much time in traffic.
Dubai’s Traditional Souks: Must Visit
And of course the local traditional markets – pure oriental culture. Dubai’s souks are the most colorful places to shop. It’s here where you can feel the culture, commerce and Arab hospitality.
- Gold Souk: indulgence in expensive jewelry
The Arabian Jewelry Market is a favorite for any woman who visits Dubai. Gold jewelry, sparkling diamonds, solid platinum and precious stones from all over the world.
- Spice Souk: gourmet heaven
Another treasure of the East is spices and seasonings, herbs, sugared dried fruits, nuts and incredible Arabian desserts. A world of amazing colors and flavors that will not leave any gourmet indifferent.
- Textile Souk: Arabic style clothing
If in olden times fabrics and priceless silk and cashmere were sold here, then today besides these luxury products the market offers clothes and accessories for every taste. Souk’s gimmick is the numerous ateliers offering tailoring services.
As you can see markets and malls in Dubai are becoming an increasingly important reason for tourists to visit the city to spend their long awaited vacation here. It would be great to just take some time to rent a car and visit all the best shopping places in the city, themed souks, buy full suitcases of gifts and souvenirs for yourself, friends and family. But even if you don’t have time to visit everything in one go, the UAE stores will be waiting for you with new collections and please you again and again with the biggest choices and the best prices.
