9 most fascinating souks in Dubai: A shopper’s paradise!
You’ve seen the glittering malls of Dubai and had a taste of the city’s luxury shopping experience. But let us take you back to where it all began: the souks in Dubai. Souks have always been an important part of Emirati life, offering a unique glimpse into the country’s culture and history. It’s time to be transported through time as we explore some of the vibrant, colourful and best souks in Dubai.
BEST SOUKS IN DUBAI
Souks in Dubai are a fascinating slice of history well preserved, chockfull of culture and traditions. These humble markets in the bustling heart of old Dubai are where you might get your hands on a rare find and for an unbeatable price too.
We’ve compiled a Dubai souks list that guarantee an authentic and traditional shopping experience in the city.
DUBAI GOLD SOUK
Let’s start with the iconic Gold Souk Dubai, nestled in the heart of Deira. You’ll find rows upon rows of stunning necklaces, bracelets, rings and gemstones on display here. The dazzling array of jewellery here is crafted in a variety of karats and with influences from around the world.
It’s the perfect memento to take from Dubai. This souk in Dubai is particularly famous amongst expats. Purity and relatively cheaper prices are some of the many reasons expats buy gold in Dubai.
Whether you’re looking to purchase some exquisite jewellery or traditional gems, there’s no shortage of variety here. Our guide details how to buy gold in Dubai.
- Location: Deira Al Ras
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 09:00 am – 09:00 pm
SPICE SOUK DUBAI
The buzzing and vibrant Dubai Spice Souk should be your next stop. Neigbouring the Gold Souk, this is another of the must-visit old souks in Dubai. You’ll be in awe of colourful and aromatic mounds of spices and herbs that line the front of the stores.
Bring your camera along – you’ll want to take a picture of the rainbow-coloured spices on display. Wind down the narrow passageways to also find incense, tea, dried fruits, nuts and so much more.
- Location: 34th Street, Deira, Al Ras
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 07:30 am – 09:55 pm
PERFUME SOUK DUBAI
As you make your way up from the Spice Souk, follow the sweet scents to the Perfume Souk Dubai on Sikkat Al Khali Street.
This is another old souk in Dubai where you can buy yourself incense sticks, essential oils, traditional Ittars or the latest perfume. You even have the option of buying wholesale sized quantities or a small amount in intricate vials that are mementos themselves.
The best part? You can even create your own fragrance here – assisted by perfumers behind the counter – to take home with you.
- Location: Sikkat Al Khail
- Timings: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 am – 01:30 pm | 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm | Closed on Sunday
NAIF SOUK DUBAI
Want to experience that vibrant energy that pulses through Dubai? Visit Naif Souk Dubai during the evenings – when vendors will line up outside their stores and shout their wares to you. But did you know that back in the day, this area actually served as a camel marketplace?
However, today, you can find just about everything in this iconic Dubai souk, from souvenirs, leather goods, electronics, and textiles.
Bargain hunters will be delighted by the unbeatable prices offered here and will definitely find an impressive find to take back with them. You can also nab a gorgeous abaya, the traditional over-garment worn by local women, for yourself.
- Location: Naif Street, Deira
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 08:30 am – 11:30 pm
TEXTILE SOUK DUBAI
Once you’re done with the souks in Deira, cross the Dubai Creek with an Abra ride to the Dubai Textile Souk in Bur Dubai, also known as Old Souk. Trust us, the Abra is the best way to get a glimpse of old Dubai.
In these unassuming line of stone buildings under wooden roofs, you’ll find some of the richest and most vivid fabrics you’ve seen. Fashionistas will love this traditional souk in Dubai with a massive variety of silks, prints and other fabrics on offer here.
Take your time to look around the souk – there are hidden gems to be found here that you will prize. Afterward, you can also check out the accessories on sale including buttons, sequins, laces, and stones to jazz up your outfit.
- Location: Bur Dubai
- Timings: Monday to Saturday, 09:00 am – 02:00 pm | 04:00 pm – 09:00 pm | Closed on Sunday
KHAN MURJAN SOUK DUBAI
Inspired by the infamous underground souk in Baghdad, this souk in Wafi Mall is a splendid feast for the eyes. The themed décor and intricate architecture evoke the authentic setting of a fourteenth-century souk.
It draws on influences from various corners of the Arab world – and is crowned with one of the world’s largest stained-glass window that spans the ceiling. This mesmerising creation was made using different types of glass, all handpicked from mosques and temples in the Islamic World.
It’s worth a visit to see the ceiling alone but you can also browse the stores and purchase rich carpets, exquisite garments, and works of Islamic art.
- Location: Wafi Mall
- Timings: Sunday to Thursday, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday and Saturday, 10:00 am – 12:00 am
- Contact: +971-4-324-4555
SOUK AL BAHAR DUBAI
A gorgeous blend of old and new, Souk Al Bahar Dubai is for those who want to experience the souk but with the comforts of luxury. Just across from Dubai Mall and connected by a footbridge, Souk Al Bahar is a modern Arabian souk.
Take back a piece of golden city with traditional wares like carpets and handicrafts or treat yourself to intricate jewellery and enticing perfumes. But the real highlight of this Dubai souk are the extraordinary views of Burj Khalifa.
Pro tip: Book yourself an outdoor table for dinner at any of the restaurants in the souk that face the Burj Khalifa. You’ll have the perfect vantage point for the famous light shows at the Dubai Fountain – and can drink in the jaw-dropping views of the tallest tower in the world.
- Location: Downtown Dubai
- Timings: Monday to Thursday, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday and Saturday, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm | Closed on Sunday
- Contact: +971-4-362-7011
THE GOLD SOUK DUBAI MALL
Dubai Mall takes shopping at The Gold Souk to another (stylish) level. Spoil yourself or a loved one with multiple boutiques offering fabulous pieces of jewellery, precious metals, and glimmering gemstones.
This souk in Dubai promises a luxury shopping experience like no other. Situated in the heart of Dubai Mall, this souk features a traditional theme and detailing that traces the journey of Arabian merchants who crossed vast deserts to trade gold.
- Location: Dubai Mall
- Timings: Monday to Thursday, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm | Friday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 12:00 am
- Contact: +971-800-38-224-6255
SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH
High-end shopping in the traditional souk setting sounds like your cup of tea? Head down to Souk Madinat Jumeirah Dubai, built to recreate the authentic souk setting and set in a larger resort.
Stroll down wood-framed walkways and open courtyards to browse stores that feature luxury brands, galleries, and unique souvenirs.
There are also plenty of things to do in Souk Madinat Jumeirah including an array of dining options. It also hosts breath-taking shows at its performing arts venue. It goes without saying that this is one of the best souks in Dubai for tourists.
- Location: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Sufouh 1
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
FAQS ABOUT SOUKS IN DUBAI
WHICH IS THE EASIEST WAY TO GET TO GOLD SOUK DUBAI VIA PUBLIC TRANSPORT?
You can use Dubai Metro or switch to Green Line which connects to the Red Line at Burjuman. It will take you to Al Ras Metro Station. Other options are the bus stop in Deira, Old Souk 1 (bus line C09) and Gold Souk Bus Station 12 (bus line 27).
WHAT CAN I EXPECT TO PAY AT PERFUME SOUK DUBAI?
The prices at Perfume Souk varies from seller to seller. However, you can expect to pay around AED 100 for a 200 ml bottle.
IS PARKING AVAILABLE AT NAIF SOUK?
Yes, the souk has parking facility. However, please note that as it is a famous place, parking tends to be full at times. Therefore, you might have to wait to find a parking spot.
And that’s a wrap! Have you been to any of the beautiful souks in Dubai? Let us know about your experience in the comments below! If you’re looking for more shopping experiences, why not explore the best malls in Dubai.
For those of you stopping in the city for a quick stop, we’ve prepared a list of things to do in Dubai in 24 hours.
Apart from Dubai, there are some amazing souks in other emirates. For instance, the Souk at Qaryat Al Beri in Abu Dhabi and Central Souk Sharjah are hugely popular.