8 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 Dubai’s vibrant, colourful and best souks.
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 guarantees 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 various karats and with influences from around the world.
This souk in Dubai is particularly famous amongst expats. Whether you want to purchase 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, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
SPICE SOUK DUBAI
The buzzing and vibrant Dubai Spice Souk should be your next stop. Neighbouring the Gold Souk, this is another of the must-visit old souks in Dubai. You’ll be in awe of the 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 find incense, tea, dried fruits, nuts, and much more.
- Location: 34th Street, Deira, Al Ras
- Timings: Saturday to Thursday, 08:00 am – 09:00 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 incense sticks, essential oils, traditional Ittars or the latest perfume. You can even buy wholesale-sized quantities or a small amount in intricate vials that are mementoes themselves.
The best part? You can create your 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 line up outside their stores. But did you know that this area served as a camel marketplace back in the day?
However, you can find almost everything in this iconic Dubai souk today, from souvenirs to leather goods, electronics and textiles.
Bargain hunters will be delighted by the unbeatable prices offered here and will find an impressive find to take back. You can also nab a gorgeous abaya, the traditional overgarment worn by local women.
- Location: Naif Street, Deira
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 08:30 am – 11:30 pm (some shops may be closed on Friday afternoon)
TEXTILE SOUK DUBAI
Once you’re done with the souks in Deira, cross Dubai Creek on an Abra ride to the Dubai Textile Souk in Bur Dubai, also known as Old Souk.
In these unassuming lines 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, which offers a massive variety of silks, prints, and other fabrics.
Take your time to look around the souk – there are hidden gems to be found here that you will prize. Afterwards, 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 windows. 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 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: +971-4-327-9795
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 luxury comforts. 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 is the extraordinary views of Burj Khalifa.
Pro tip: Book yourself an outdoor table for dinner at any restaurant in the souk that faces the Burj Khalifa. You’ll have the perfect vantage point for the famous light shows at the Dubai Fountain – and you can drink in the jaw-dropping views of the tallest tower in the world.
- Location: Downtown Dubai
- Timings: Monday to Thursday, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm | Friday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 12:00 am
- Contact: +971-4-362-7011
SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH
Does high-end shopping in the traditional souk setting sound like your cup of tea? Head down to Souk Madinat Jumeirah Dubai, which was built to recreate the authentic souk setting 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 various dining options. 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
- Contact: +971-4-366-8888
FAQS ABOUT SOUKS IN DUBAI
ARE THE SOUKS IN DUBAI WORTH VISITING?
Absolutely! The souks in Dubai are worth visiting. They offer a unique traditional charm where you can find exquisite gold jewellery, aromatic spices, handcrafted textiles and perfumes.
WHICH IS THE MOST FAMOUS SOUK IN DUBAI?
The most famous souk in Dubai is the Gold Souk in Deira. It’s renowned worldwide for its stunning displays of gold jewellery, from intricate traditional designs to contemporary pieces. This souk is one of the largest gold markets in the world, with hundreds of shops offering gold, diamonds and other precious metals at competitive prices.
Its gleaming storefronts and rich heritage make it a must-visit destination for tourists and a symbol of Dubai’s reputation as the “City of Gold.”
IS GOLD CHEAPER IN DUBAI SOUK?
Yes, gold is generally cheaper in Dubai’s Gold Souk due to several factors. Dubai imposes no value-added taxes (VAT) on raw gold bars. The prices are based on the current international gold rate, which makes the cost per gram competitive. The craftsmanship and labour costs can also be negotiated, allowing you to haggle for better prices.
WHICH IS THE EASIEST WAY TO GET TO GOLD SOUK DUBAI VIA PUBLIC TRANSPORT?
You can use the Dubai Metro Red Line and switch to the Green 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 vary 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 a parking facility. However, please note that as it is a famous place, parking sometimes tends to be full. 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 in the city who have a quick stop, we’ve prepared a list of things to do in Dubai in 24 hours.
Apart from Dubai, there are some fantastic souks in other emirates. For instance, the Souk at Qaryat Al Beri in Abu Dhabi and Central Souk Sharjah are hugely popular.
