20 Best Things To Buy In Dubai (updated 2023 list) That Makes The Shopaholic In You Happy

What do you say about a destination that is famous for shopping, worldwide? You don’t say anything. You just bring out the shopaholic in you and go to that destination. That destination might be Dubai for you. If there was an award for the best places to shop at then Dubai would be such a strong contender. You can buy anything to everything in Dubai; from electronics to lifestyle, from jewelry to decorative items, Dubai has everything for everyone. From the many places to shop at and such a wide variety of things to buy in Dubai you just have to take your pick or maybe have a bit of all of them.

20 Best Things To Buy In Dubai

Although there is no dearth of things to shop in Dubai we have decided our best picks and these are 20 souvenirs that you can or rather should bring back from Dubai. This list of things to buy in Dubai will help you choose the best thing when coming back from Dubai.

• Aladdin Lamps: Fairy Tale Lovers
• Camel Milk Chocolate: Sweet Tooth
• Lanterns: Light Up!
• Dubai Dates (Dried Fruit): Tasty Treats
• Arabic Attar: Smell Good
• Persian Rugs & Carpets: Elegance Exemplified
• Lucky Stones: Build Your Luck
• Oudh & Bakhoor: Soothing Fragrances
• Hookahs: Relax And Chill
• Pashmina Shawls: Style It Up
• Kava Pots & Coffee Sets: Stylized Serving
• Gold and Diamond Jewellery: Elegance Personified
• Arabian Coffee: For Coffee Lovers
• Electronic Items: Gadgets And More
• Dubai Spices: Flavourful Food
• Incense Holders: Culture Of Dubai
• Traditional Arab Shoes: Happy Feet
• Khanjar: Tradition Inspired

1. Aladdin Lamps: Fairy Tale Lovers

Image Source

No, the genie does not come out of these. Inspired by the legend of Aladdin these brass lamps with very detailed carving are one of the best things to get from Dubai. If you are looking for something to gift a loved one then these Aladdin Lamps would be just perfect. If you are wondering where you can find these lamps then Karma Souk and Al-Karama Market are the best markets in Dubai. It is definitely one of the best things to buy from Dubai. 

Where To Buy: Karama Souq, Street No. 18b, Dubai UAE; Al- Karama Market, Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Price Range: INR 500 – 8,000

Specialty: These are traditional pieces in Emirati homes, and make for great UAE souvenirs. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Must Read: 8 Bakeries In Dubai For Your Sinful Indulgence In Sugar And All Your Sweet Cravings

2. Camel Milk Chocolate: Sweet Tooth

Image Source

A homegrown delicacy that you will absolutely love, the Camel Milk Chocolates are one of the most delicious things to get from Dubai. Initially, these chocolates could only be found in Dubai but now they are being exported to Europe and other Asian countries. Al Nassma camel milk chocolate has many varieties including whole milk, macadamia, and spiced (Arabia) chocolates.

Where To Buy: Al Nassma kiosks at Dubai Mall, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, and Duty-free shops

Price Range: INR 800 – 4,500

Specialty: It is manufactured by just one company, Al Nassma.

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: 12 Hair-Raising Water Sports In Dubai For A Vacation Of A Lifetime

3. Lanterns: Light Up!

Image Source

If you are looking for what to buy in Dubai then you should really consider lanterns. The kind of craft and labor that goes into the making of these lanterns is great and therefore they make great gift options. A lantern with small bits of glass woven onto it would be an ideal gift and would make anyone happy and feel special.

Where To Buy: Dragon Mart, Al Awir Road, Dubai 7567, United Arab Emirates; Karama Souq, Street No. 18b, Dubai UAE

Price Range: INR 1,000 to 5,000

Specialty: Arabic lanterns sold in the souks have a typical design unique to Dubai. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: 25 Most Popular Adventure Sports In Dubai For A Thrilling UAE Holiday

4. Dubai Dates (Dried Fruit): Tasty Treats

Image Source

Dates are a prominent part of Middle Eastern culture and buying these as a souvenir from Dubai is ideally the best thing to do. One of the best things to get from Dubai, these dates are a rich source of calcium, iron, magnesium, and many other essential items and are an instant energy booster. With over 20 varieties of dates including Sokari, Kholas, and Madjool these dates are very flavorsome.

Where To Buy: Dates souk at Deira Food Market for fresh dates; Supermarkets for packed dates

Price Range: INR 500 to 3,000

Specialty: Dates from Bateel shops in Dubai are native and available in more than 20 different varieties.

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: Dubai Monuments: Blended List Of 8 Enchanting Old And New Monuments In The City!

5. Arabic Attar: Smell Good

Attar or perfume oils are made by distilling flower petals in water by using pressure and mild heat. The exotic fragrance of these powerful oils is very pleasant and you will get a whiff of it whenever you walk past an Arab woman. At times spices and oils too are added and mild Sandalwood oil is used for the finishing. If you are unsure then you can go for branded options at popular shops such as Hind Al Oud and Amouage. They are also some of the best places to shop in Dubai.

Where To Buy: Perfume Souk at Deira, Perfume shops in malls and the airport

Price Range: INR 300 to 1,000

Specialty: These essential oils derived from plant sources are alcohol-free.

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: Food Festival In Dubai: An Ultimate Event Where You Can Just Eat, Crave & Repeat

6. Persian Rugs & Carpets: Elegance Exemplified

Image Source

If you are not on a budget and wish to invest in something beautiful and very classy at the same time then Persian Rugs and Carpets are the best choices. One of the best home decor products and very appealing with intricate designs and fine detailing, these rugs and carpets are one of the most famous things to buy in Dubai. Affordable and inexpensive rugs and carpets too are available at Dubai souks.

Where To Buy: National Iranian Carpets at Souq Madinat Jumeirah; Persian Carpet House at Souq Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, Mirdif City Centre, and Souq al Bahar

Price Range: INR 5,000 to 10,000

Specialty: These rugs are handmade, and are perfect insulators for winter. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: Mark These Churches-In Dubai On Your Bucket List While You’re At This Beautifully Carved City

7. Lucky Stones: Build Your Luck

Image Source

Based on your birth month, lucky stones are usually placed in gold, silver, and platinum rings or pendants and are believed to bring in good luck and the best thing about buying this as a souvenir is that it is customizable and comes in many designs and everyone will be lured into buying it. The ones with Arabian designs are unique and very pretty. They are also very popular during the Dubai shopping festival.

Where To Buy: Pearlicious in Covent Garden, Dubai Marina; Gold & Diamond Park, Office No. 213, Building No 4, 4th Interchange, Sheik Zayed Road, United Arab Emirates

Price Range: INR 2,000 to 10,000

Specialty: Solitary precious stones are a part of the cultural scene in the UAE. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: Dubai In September: An Ultimate Handbook To Answer Your Questions Instantly!

8. Oudh & Bakhoor: Soothing Fragrances

If you want to gift someone a fragrance then there is nothing better than Oudh or Bakoor. The traditional fragrance is very distinct and special. Derived from Agarwood resin, Oudh is one of the most pleasant fragrances you will ever come across and is slightly expensive. Bakhoor, on the contrary, is a word for Agarwood chips which when burned gives out a very pleasing aroma and spreads very quickly.

Where To Buy: Perfume Souk at Deira for Oudh scents and oils; Perfume shops in malls; Spice Souk for Bakhoor which is one of the best shopping places in Dubai.

Price Range: INR 5,000 to 20,000

Specialty: In Arabian culture, it’s traditional to pass Bakhoor among guests which is why it makes for the perfect gift to bring back. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: This New Hotel In Dubai Is On Its Way To Break Not One But FIVE World Records!

9. Hookahs: Relax And Chill

Image Source

A very prominent and common item found in every Arab household, Hookah serves as something to chill and relax with and you can take these home. Dubai has shops offering some really fancy and expensive hookahs which can make for a very special and extravagant gift. Buy these as this is one of the best cheap things to buy in Dubai.

Where To Buy: Smokers’ Centre outlets; Carrefour Hypermarket; Dubai souks

Price Range: INR 4,000 to 10,000

Specialty: They have specialty Arab spices and other flavors exotic to the UAE. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: 26 Free Things To Do In Dubai And Experience Over The Top Luxury Without Spending A Penny

10. Pashmina Shawls: Style It Up

Image Source

If you are still not sure after browsing through all the options then maybe this is what you were looking for. Pashmina Shawls are one of the most expensive famous things in Dubai for shopping. Real Pashmina shawls are pretty expensive but they make for a perfect gift. If you are on a restricted budget then you can try the silk or viscose versions of the product.

Where To Buy: Pashmina House; Textile Souk and Karama Market

Price Range: INR 8,000 to 25,000

Specialty: Ethnic designs exclusive to the UAE can be an exotic gift. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: A Spectacular Trip To Dubai In January 

11. Kava Pots & Coffee Sets: Stylized Serving

Kava is nothing but absolute pure coffee and a cup of this is as amazing as it gets. Its how locals prefer to have their coffee- black and strong. Served in fancy pots and designer cups this coffee has its own place in Arabic culture. Kava coffee pots are usually lined with gold or silver and the most precious ones have semi precious stones. These make for great gifts and are great souvenirs to take home from Dubai. This one of the best things in Dubai to buy.

Where To Buy: Dubai mall, Financial Centre Road, Downtown Dubai, Near Burj Khalifa, United Arab Emirates; Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Price Range: INR 800 to 3,000

Specialty: They are a must-own in traditional Arab homes.

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: Dubai Shopping Festival: All You Need To Know

12. Gold and Diamond Jewellery: Elegance Personified

Don’t forget to buy gold in the ‘city of gold’! It may sound weird but as Dubai is known for its gold and diamond jewelry and you must not miss out on buying an awesome gift for your beloved ones! You can buy beautifully designed gold jewelry here at quite less rates as compared to the other parts of the world. 

Where To Buy: Dubai Gold Souk, Gold and Diamond Park, Joyalukkas outlets, jewelry stores

Price Range: INR 500 to 10,000

Specialty: The quality and variety of ornaments is exotic. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: Dubai On A Budget: A Guide To Explore This Sensational City Like A Pro

13. Arabian Coffee: For Coffee Lovers

Are you a coffee lover and enjoy collecting rare coffee at your home? If yes, then you must surely visit the nearest coffee store in Dubai and grab your best coffee there. Arabian coffee is known for its strong flavor and the markets in Dubai are the perfect spots to buy them. Don’t forget these loving coffee items to buy in Dubai. Experiencing Dubai street food is incomplete if you haven’t tried Arabian coffee.

Where To Buy: Dubai Coffee Museum, Dubai Souks, and major supermarkets 

Price Range: INR 500 to 2,000

Specialty: The Middle East has distinct methods of brewing which makes it a regional taste. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: Visit These 10 Top Art Galleries In Dubai To Feed You Mind And Soul With Ethereal Art

14. Electronic Items: Gadgets And More

You would surely be knowing that Dubai offers your favourite electronic item at a discounted price. So don’t forget to check out their amazing collections of your favourite gear or electronic item before heading back home. If you are planning a visit during the festival season then you can surely grab some offer deal here!

Where To Buy: Al-Fahidi Street in Bur Dubai area, Sharaf DG store or other electronics stores

Price Range: INR 2,000 to 50,000

Specialty: They have a great collection at relatively lower prices than India. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: Dubai In September: An Ultimate Handbook To Answer Your Questions Instantly!

15. Dubai Spices: Flavourful Food

The perfect way to add the flavor of Dubai to your home is by getting the famous Dubai spices with you. These spices are full of flavors and are sold at all the local markets at an affordable price. So spice up your curries and other recipes by getting these aromatic Dubai spices back home with you!

Where To Buy: Spice Souk, Supermarkets

Price Range: INR 200 to 5,000

Specialty: Arab spices have stronger flavors and aromatic mixes that can give a special flavor to your cuisines. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: Kayaking In Dubai & Abu Dhabi

16. Incense Holders: Culture Of Dubai

Image Source

Incense holders make for rich and cultural in-sighted things to buy in Dubai. These are a part of hospitality and culture and imparts a rich and soothing fragrance that will make your guests feel welcome. Although the incense holders are available in malls throughout Dubai, the best place to get your hand on these beautiful gifts is by visiting Spice Souq in Old Deira. Electric incense burners are also widely available.

Where To Buy: Spice Souq, Sikkat Al Khail Road, Al Ras, Dubai.

Price Range: INR 1,000 to 5,000

Specialty: It’s a part of the UAE cultural scene and perfect artifacts for your home. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: 6 Homely Holiday Homes In Dubai

17. Traditional Arab Shoes: Happy Feet

Image Source

One look at the traditional Arab shoes and you will be reminded of Aladdin; the fictional character who used to wear these kinds of shoes. These shoes are often slim fit, and taper at the toes, and are available in a plethora of colors to choose from. From thread-work to beads, baubles, and cloth balls, these shoes come in different styles to match your outfits, and your preferences. These traditional shoes are either slip-on or completely covered; depending upon your liking. This is one of the best options amongst things to buy in Dubai.

Where To Buy: The Cloth Souk, Bur Dubai, Dubai

Price Range: INR 800 to 3,000

Specialty: They have a special handcrafted design that is purely regional. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: Valentines Day In Dubai: A Handy Guide To Explore Fine Dine Spaces And Much More On The Day Of Love!

18. Khanjar: Tradition Inspired

Image Source

In the traditional attire of Emirati men, khanjar is one of the most important elements and is one of the best things to buy in Dubai. These are generally worn over men’s dishdashas and are curved in shape with silver and gold embossed on it. Originally made out of rhino horns, they are now mostly made of wood. Some of them are equipped with handles made of silver, marble, or sandalwood. Generally, the sheath of the dagger is decorated with silver-threaded weave.

Where To Buy: Yemen Pavilion, Global Village

Price Range: INR 800 to 2,500

Specialty: They have handcrafted designs with Arabic symbols. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: An Ultimate Post-Covid Travel Guide To Dubai: Experience Travel The New Way!

19. Jewel Chest: A Perfect Gift

Image Source

If you are buying jewelry, there’s something to compliment it and that is a jewel chest. These wooden chests, generally made of sandalwood come in different colors, designs, and sizes. These spacious and provide the perfect solution for organizing your jewelry. They are often decorated with precious or semi-precious stones, brass, and silver. These Jewel boxes also make a great gifting option or simply keep them with you as a souvenir. 

Where To Buy – Dubai Gold Souq, Dubai, UAE

Price Range: INR 3,000 to 5,000

Specialty: They have engravings depicting UAE’s cultural traditions that can be an exotic gift. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Suggested Read: 7 Awesome Reasons Why You Ought To Visit Dubai Parks & Resorts On Your Next Vacay In The Emirates

20. Quran Stands: Beautiful Designs

Image Source

Dubai is an Islamic city and also a shopping hub which means you get to buy several religious items. One of the most loved products is the Quran stand. Choose from a variety of beautiful stands to place the holy book. Mostly made of wood with marble inlays, these stands are decorated in various intricate designs. They come with collapsible stands that can be adjusted or simple stands to read in a sitting position. Many come with Quran verses inscribed on them.

Where To Buy – Al Abbes Islamic Books Shop, Sarah or Makkah Islamic Book Center

Price Range: INR 500 to 5,000

Specialty: They have a wide variety of woods and designs. 

How To Reach: Metro, Bus, Trams, Taxi

Further Read: Dhow Cruise In Dubai: A Guide To The Best Way Of Touring The Bustling Emirate!

With so many things to buy in Dubai, the shopaholic in you will thank you for visiting the destination. With too many souvenirs that you would want to bring back, you would only be confused and never out of options. Excited already? Well, if you are prompted and are planning for a vacation in Dubai then browse through these customizable options and plan your vacation with TravelTriangle.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Buy In Dubai

Which all things are cheap in Dubai?

The Camel Milk Chocolate, Dubai Dates, Bakhoor, Attars, Gold, Coffee, etc are some of the cheapest items in Dubai. There are many places to shop and such a wide variety of things to buy in Dubai is that you need to pick from them.

What are the best things to purchase in Dubai?

Dubai is known to be the best place to shop for anything. Hence, there is no limit at all. You have chocolates, electronic items, and gold. These are the best things you can buy from Dubai.

What can I buy in Dubai Duty-Free?

There are a lot of things you can buy from Dubai Duty-Free. You have cigarettes, olives, liquor, Arabic sweets, perfumes, chocolates, and dry fruits. The dates are pretty famous here. Indians can now use the rupee to shop duty-free in Dubai using rupee.

What currency is best to use in Dubai?

You can use the Dirhams at any time. US Dollar is also accepted in most places in Dubai. So, you can either get your currency exchanged here or use US dollars.

Is Gold cheaper in Dubai than in India?

Yes, that is true. Dubai is known to be a cheaper place to buy gold than in India. It is due to tax laws and an allure for Indian travelers to splurge on some shiny jewelry for themselves.

Is shopping in Dubai tax-free?

Yes, you can enjoy tax-free shopping in Dubai. That is why it is quite famous to shop here. Also, they have a wide variety of options to choose from.

Are watches cheaper in Dubai?

So in Dubai, the official retailer adds 5% of duty cost and in Gold Souk in Deira, the brand new Rolex watches are 20-25% cheaper than the international price. The second-hand watches are even cheaper.

People Also Read: