Shopping in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi located at the center of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is every shopper’s dream. The shopping experience in Abu Dhabi is very different from other places. The diversity of shopping centers and items make Abu Dhabi a shopping paradise.

 
From big shopping centers to small, market-stall like stores, UAE has got it all. The best places to shop are the famous Old Souk; there is also the Al Nasr Street, as well as Zayed the Second, Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Khalifa.

Probably the best time to go shopping in Abu Dhabi is during its famous Abu Dhabi Shopping Festival. The festival itself shows how much shopping is valued in Abu Dhabi. It has become one of its tourist attractions and is said to be a national past time for everyone. One could say that the culture of malling in Abu Dhabi is very visible. 

 
The Abu Dhabi Shopping Festival is conducted annually in March. People from around the globe flock the country just to celebrate this annual festival. This is the best time to shop as this is when malls offer sales and the best bargains. Shopping centers also give out prizes to shoppers. There will also be exhibitions and other events that will showcase the best brands in the world.

Abu Dhabi’s best quality goods are gold, electronic gadgets, watches, designer and branded perfumes and fashionable clothes. The Abu Dhabi Mall is one of the biggest malls in the country and simply the most exciting. It is located in the Tourist Club Area; a simple taxi cab will take you there, wherever you are from the city. Amazingly, the mall has around 220 shops and 40 international food outlets! So basically, Abu Dhabi Mall is not just a place to shop but also a place to eat good food! Pair it up with the unique Arabian hospitality and you have your perfect shopping experience.

Another famous shopping center is the Abu Dhabi Duty Free Complex, one of the most famous Duty Free outlets in the world. The place is beautifully made with rich interior designs. Like any other Duty Free, it houses different international brand names for a cheaper price. And, if you’re visiting Abu Dhabi for just a few hours, no need to rush because this is just located in Abu Dhabi International Airport.

There is also the world famous Madinat Zayed Shopping and Gold Centre, which is located at the heart of the city. The mall is considerably one of the biggest malls in the Abu Dhabi. It is home to some of Abu Dhabi’s largest jewellery shops that only offer quality gold, pearls, diamonds and other splendid jewels. 

Despite these air-conditioned and big malls, the markets are also great for bargains. When buying authentic Middle Eastern carpets and souvenirs, the best place to go for is markets. The most famous of course is the Al Ain Souk, located on the Zayed Bin Sultan Street. This is perfect for taking a glimpse of the market atmosphere.

Other shopping centers include Al Wahda Mall, Al Raha Mall and Marina Mall. Other notable markets that are best for bargains are Al Zaaafaranah Souk, Carpet Souk where you can find splendid Arabian carpets and cushions and Mwaifa Souk in Al Ain. 

Truly Abu Dhabi offers the most luxurious shopping experience every shopper asked, but it also brings the best quality and biggest bargain anyone can ask. Abu Dhabi trip without experiencing shopping is not truly experiencing Abu Dhabi. Put your best shoes on because you’re in for a shopping marathon in Abu Dhabi.