Your Essential Guide to Shopping in Abu Dhab

Among the many things that Abu Dhabi is known for, it is its unlimited shopping that the emirate is most famous for. Read this article for a comprehensive guide to shopping while in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi, like most other large cities in the Middle East, is known for some of the best shopping options in the world. In addition to being home to some of the largest global brands, there is a lot more you can shop for, to take back home with you some local flavor. While you may be proud to find the cheapest hotel in Abu Dhabi during your holiday, it is time to splurge a little of the money you saved.

?Gold

Visiting any of the gold souks can prove to be a pleasurable experience whether or not you choose to actually make a purchase. Here, you will find some exclusive jewelry boutiques offering exquisite pieces made in 18, 22 and even 24-karat gold. If you aren’t in the mood for some design selection, you can also purchase kilo bars, small minted bars and gold bullion bars while at the souk. While you are exploring, you may also come across jewelry made out of precious stones and pearls.

?Spices

The narrow alleyways of the spice souk in Abu Dhabi is a haven for the quintessential closet chef. Here, you will be able to buy some of the most exotic Arabic spices and ingredients commonly used in local cooking. Buy some bezar, cumin, cloves, and cinnamon and also consider picking up a few strands of saffron, the most expensive spice in the world. At the market, you will also find rosewater and orange blossom water that is traditional flavoring in Arabic desserts and salads.

?Perfume and Incense

You will literally find every conceivable brand of perfume in Abu Dhabi. Most malls and large perfume stores will offer great prices on all global perfume brands. In the smaller shops and souks, you will be able to explore local scents and even create your own mix to suit your personal taste. While walking around souks, you simply cannot miss the stacks of frankincense across the alleyways. Often considered to be more valuable and even more expensive than gold, Amouage is a frankincense that contains the finest ingredients from Oman.

?Fabrics and Textiles

Believe it or not, if you are looking for the finest silks from the Far East, Abu Dhabi is where you want to be. The fabrics and textile pieces you find here are generally of excellent value and great quality. Tourists especially love to pick up some pashmina for back home. That said, they tend to significantly vary in price and quality.

?Carpets

In addition to finding carpet outlets in most shopping centers and malls, if you are looking for variety, you want to make a trip to a carpet souk. Consider making the short drive to the Blue Souk in Sharjah that is home to the largest range of carpets at the best prices. To be able to identify an authentic piece, look for the signature of the creator that is woven into the design.

While spending time to find cheapest hotels in Abu Dhabi, also make it a point to research some of the shopping hotspots in the city to get the best deals.