Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, though it can be a real challenge for the wallet. Here, you can shop much more affordably than in our country or even European capitals, thanks to the absence of VAT, low import duties, and massive sales in winter and after Ramadan.
Even short-term visitors transiting through Dubai can be swayed by the impressive duty-free zones at local airports, making it difficult to leave without making new purchases.
The city itself transforms into a continuous stream of shopping galleries and megamalls, where brightly colored display windows beckon and, as if by magic, free you from your money, handing you bags filled with new shoes, gadgets, and other purchases. It’s important not to lose control and spend all your money during the first few days of your vacation.
Dubai’s shopping malls impress not only with their selection but also with their architectural features, such as glass pyramids, ski resorts, and fountain shows. Among them, the Mall of the Emirates and Ibn Battuta Mall stand out: the former impresses with its size and variety of goods, while the latter boasts reasonable prices and unique design.
Don’t forget about the traditional oriental souks. Visit the Spice Souk, enjoying the vibrant colors and aromas, explore the Gold Souk and Textile Souk, and for high-quality knockoffs of famous brands, head to Souk Karama in the Al Karama district. And be sure to bargain!
What to Try
Those with a sweet tooth should leave their doubts behind and head to the world’s largest candy store, Candylicious, in the Dubai Mall. This incredible store offers over 5,000 varieties of sweets, including exclusive ones. No matter what you choose, the main thing is to leave with a smile.
Special attention should be paid to the local delicacies. Try camel milk ice cream, which is not only affordable but also delicious. For those looking for something special, there’s gold ice cream—pricey but impressive. Don’t forget to try the local coffee varieties: strong black coffees prepared according to traditional recipes, light Arabian coffee with cardamom, and, of course, gold coffee for true connoisseurs. Complete your coffee experience with a shisha pipe for a truly immersive Dubai experience.
