Dubai : Shopping in Dubai

All the information about shopping in Dubai

Since its natural harbour was first discovered, Dubai has quickly grown in prominence as an international centre for trade. This tradition continues to this day, the city has become an open port with low import duties, and no taxation. This means that Dubai is a place that offers unbeatable value for money for the bargain hunter, and a huge number of opportunities for a spot of retail therapy.

Major brands, and designer labels are more often than not cheaper in Dubai than in the country where they are originally made, meaning that if you're looking to pick up a new wardrobe, then Dubai is most certainly the best place to do it.

Across Dubai, opening hours in the shops vary, although are typically from 8am until 1pm, and then in the afternoon from 4pm through until around 9pm. Friday is the Arab weekend, and many shops close for the day - especially smaller privately owned shops, and stalls in the souks.

Aside from the large shopping malls dotted around the city, the main shopping areas are Al Faheidi Road, Al Rigga Road, Al Karama, and Beniyas Square. Bargaining is considered normal in souks, and you can usually haggle with the stall holder to get a good discount, in shops, prices are a little more fixed, although it is always worth asking for "the best price".