Shopping for souvenirs is one of the best ways to connect with the local culture of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The country’s rich history and vibrant markets offer travelers a chance to take home a piece of its unique heritage. Whether you’re in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or the other Emirates, there are plenty of items to bring back as a memory of your trip.
To help you avoid tourist traps and find authentic products, here’s a guide to the best places and items to look out for when you’re shopping for souvenirs in the UAE.
1. Local Spices and Arabic Coffee
What to look for:
The UAE is famous for its selection of high-quality spices. Saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric are among the most popular ones. Arabic coffee, or “gahwa,” is another item that makes for a perfect souvenir. It’s made with cardamom and served with dates, making it a unique experience even after you leave the UAE.
Where to buy:
Dubai’s Spice Souk in Deira is the best place to buy fresh, fragrant spices at a reasonable price. Be sure to bargain with sellers for a better deal. For a proper coffee shopping experience, head to the Coffee Museum in Dubai’s Al Fahidi district, where you can purchase authentic Arabic coffee beans and equipment like the traditional “dallah” pot.
2. Traditional Textiles and Fabrics
What to look for:
Textiles are an integral part of Middle Eastern culture. Look for beautiful pashmina shawls, intricate handwoven rugs, and silk scarves. These vibrant fabrics make excellent gifts and are both lightweight and easy to pack.
Where to buy:
If you’re in Dubai, visit the Textile Souk in Bur Dubai. The market is a feast for the eyes with its colorful displays of fabric. You’ll find everything from soft cashmere to bedouin-inspired textiles. Abu Dhabi’s Carpet Souk is another great spot known for its hand-knotted rugs made from wool and silk. Don’t be shy about negotiating the price!
3. Perfumes and Oud
What to look for:
Oud is a natural resin extracted from the agarwood tree, and it’s a key ingredient in many luxurious Middle Eastern perfumes. It has a deep, musky scent and is very popular in the UAE. These perfumes last a long time and are highly concentrated, making them perfect for those who want to carry the UAE’s signature fragrance back home.
Where to buy:
Dubai’s Al Fahidi Street is known for its high-end perfume shops where you can buy both pure oud and custom-made perfumes. You can also visit Ajmal Perfumes, one of the most famous perfumeries in the region. In Abu Dhabi, try the Yas Perfume shop for a wide selection of fragrances made with oud.
4. Dates and Sweets
What to look for:
Dates are a significant part of Emirati culture, and they are offered to guests as a sign of hospitality. The UAE is known for its variety of dates, from the sweet “Medjool” to the caramel-like “Khalas.” You can also pick up traditional Emirati sweets like “baklava” and “luqaimat.” These make delicious gifts for friends and family back home.
Where to buy:
For a top-notch selection of dates, head to the Bateel boutiques in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. They offer premium dates packed in luxurious boxes, perfect for gifting. You can also find an assortment of sweets in local markets like the Madinat Zayed Gold and Souk in Abu Dhabi.
5. Gold and Jewelry
What to look for:
The UAE is known for its gold markets, and even if you’re not looking to splurge, window shopping at the gold souks is a must. Look for intricately designed pieces of gold jewelry, which are typically sold in 18-24 karats. Popular designs include floral patterns, Arabic calligraphy, and modern designs mixed with tradition.
Where to buy:
The Deira Gold Souk in Dubai is one of the largest in the world, with hundreds of shops offering gold in various forms: necklaces, bracelets, and rings. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it’s worth visiting for the unique experience. Abu Dhabi’s Gold Souk located inside the Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre is a great alternative where you can find many reputable jewelers.
6. Camel Milk Products
What to look for:
Camel milk is popular in the UAE, and several products derived from it make for a truly unique souvenir. Camel milk soap and chocolate are two of the most interesting products you’ll find. The soap is known for its moisturizing qualities, and the chocolate, often flavored with dates and spices, is a tasty treat.
Where to buy:
In Dubai, you can find camel milk chocolates at places like Al Nassma Chocolate, one of the first companies to commercialize camel milk chocolates. For camel milk soap, you can visit local handmade soap shops in malls or markets such as The Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
7. Arabian Lanterns
What to look for:
Arabian lanterns, also known as “fanous,” are beautifully decorated glass and metal lanterns that make great decorative items for your home. They come in various sizes and colors with detailed designs. These lanterns not only represent the cultural heritage of the region but also add an exotic touch to any room.
Where to buy:
Visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, which offers a good selection of authentic handicrafts, including lanterns. Another spot to check out is the Dubai Souk Al Bahar. If you’re in Abu Dhabi, head to the World Trade Center Souk for more affordable finds.
8. Traditional Emirati Handicrafts
What to look for:
Handicrafts like woven baskets, incense burners, and pottery items make for meaningful souvenirs. Many of these handicrafts are still made using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Local artisans put a lot of effort into creating sustainable, natural products that reflect the UAE’s rich heritage.
Where to buy:
In Dubai, the best place to grab traditional crafts is the Dubai Heritage Village in the Shindagha area. The village is a living museum, showcasing Emirati life as it was in the past. In Abu Dhabi, head to the Women’s Handicrafts Centre—it’s a great place to shop and learn about the craftsmanship behind the goods.
9. Arabian Tea Sets
What to look for:
If you want to take home something representative of local hospitality, check out Arabian tea sets. These are often intricately designed and come with a full set of cups, a teapot, and sometimes even a tray. The designs often feature floral patterns or geometric shapes in gold or silver finishes.
Where to buy:
Find tea sets at the Dubai Mall or Souk Al Bahar, both of which have a great variety. You can also check out the shops in Abu Dhabi’s World Trade Center Souk for similar items.
10. Sand Art in Bottles
What to look for:
Sand art is exactly what it sounds like: colorful sand poured into small glass bottles to create intricate desert-themed designs. Many artists personalize the bottle by adding your name or a special message. These make for lightweight, affordable souvenirs that are a fun way to remember your trip.
Where to buy:
You’ll find sand art mostly in tourist areas. In Dubai, check out the Global Village or the Desert Safari stops, where artists create custom designs in real-time. In Abu Dhabi, many local craft markets offer sand art, especially in the Corniche area.
No matter where you go in the UAE, you’ll find an array of authentic, locally-made souvenirs. Just remember to haggle for the best price, and enjoy the process of shopping in these exciting, vibrant marketplaces. Happy shopping!
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