By Expedia Team, on September 20, 2019

The UAE on a Budget: Where to Find Cheap Shopping in Dubai

“Dubai is well known for its shopping, especially with its tax-free designation. From opulent shopping malls to bargain souks with unique goods, Dubai has a range of shopping options for gadgets, souvenirs and local delicacies.

To make the most of your experience, here are the best cheap shopping places in Dubai.

Dubai Mall
—————–

The Dubai Mall is not only among the largest in the world, boasting nearly a half-million square metres of space and 1,200 shops, but it also has cafes and restaurants, cinemas, a hotel and entertainment venues. The mall is divided into different precincts that cater to different shopping categories, such as high-end fashion or a souk with traditional clothing, handicrafts and accessories. The mall also has an outdoor section that lends a more natural feel.

The mall boasts a few attractions as well, such as the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo with a 270-degree tunnel, and Kidzania, a play area with interactive learning experiences for kids. You could also ice skate at the Olympic-sized ice rink.

Mall of the Emirates
—————————

The Mall of the Emirates is the world’s first shopping resort and offers a fun and relaxing shopping experience that’s unlike other malls. It has over 560 brands in fashion, sports, lifestyle, electronics and home furnishings, as well as cinema screens, cafes and restaurants.

One of the main highlights of the Mall of the Emirates is the Snow Park, a manmade mountain with ski slopes for skiing and snowboarding, toboggan runs, climbing towers and an ice cave.

Wafi Mall
—————-

The Wafi Mall is a work of art in itself, complete with stained glass ceilings, unique sculptures, ornate staircase railings and other works. Within the mall, you’ll find a traditional marketplace that mimics the appeal of a souk or local market with 150 shops selling items like traditional Arab handicrafts and decor. The mall also has a miniature golf course, children’s activity area and a swimming pool.

Deira Gold Souk
———————-

The Deira Gold Souk is the ideal spot for gold-shopping on a budget. Vendors at Deira Gold Souk expect to haggle, so you’re free to negotiate your way to a hefty discount. You’re also more likely to get a good deal if you buy more. Even if you don’t want to buy gold, visiting Deira Gold Souk is a great place to experience a bustling marketplace with dazzling gold displays with precious stones.

Bur Dubai Souk
———————

Bur Dubai Souk is the ultimate destination for souvenirs and traditional goods. You can peruse covered walkways lined with velvet, satin, silk, wool and cashmere in an array of colours from vendors selling Indian saris, Kashmir pashminas and Persian carpets. You could have garments specially made as well, though it’s considered a luxury and might be pricier. Bur Dubai Souk sells some iconic souvenirs as well, such as Dubai t-shirts and ‘Aladdin’ shoes.

Global Village
———————

The Global Village is like an international expo with representatives from all over the world. It’s a shopping venue with goods and cuisine from Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas and the Middle East in one place.

The Global Village has a 5-month festival with daily performances like street shows, stunt performances and concerts for various interests. Fantasy Island, an amusement park within the village, has thrill rides and kiddie rides for family entertainment.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah
—————————-

Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a traditional marketplace experience within a luxurious venue. As a recreation of a more ancient market, Souk Madinat Jumeirah provides you with a quiet and friendly atmosphere to shop for authentic goods like handicrafts, souvenirs, delicacies and jewellery.

When the sun goes down, the bars, cafes and restaurants in Souk Madinat Jumeirah come alive. This is the ideal venue to experience the Dubai nightlife over exquisite food and drink after a day of shopping.

Al Fahidi Street
———————–

If you’re in the market for appliances or electronics, Al Fahidi Street is the place to go. You can find a new laptop, mobile phone, camera, oven, refrigerator or washing machine in this marketplace, but be sure to check the warranty to ensure a good deal. At dusk, Al Fahidi Street transforms into an active and energetic night market with neon signs and the bustle of shoppers.

Karama Shopping Complex
——————————

The Karama Shopping Complex has an array of souvenirs at incredibly low prices. In this market, you’re expected to haggle, so you can get excellent deals on popular gifts like shawls, trinkets and shisha pipes. Another highlight of the Karama Shopping Complex is the street art, which can be found all around the buildings in the complex.

——-

Whether you’re in search of traditional goods or unique finds, it’s no wonder that Dubai is known across the world for its shopping. If you’re planning on a Dubai holiday, be sure to experience some of these unique markets for an unforgettable trip.”