Dubai is a shopping paradise for tourists! From high-end luxury brands to gold, electronics and perfumes - you will rarely hear of people coming back without having shopped for any of these.
While shopping in Dubai can be an expensive affair, there are a few options where you can get the best value for money. These malls and markets offer great deals, discounts and prices and attract not just tourists but residents too.
In your first few months as an NRI in Dubai, keeping your budget in check is super important. The best part is - you can do that while shopping from brands you love, thanks to these four economical and affordable markets and malls.
1. The Outlet Village
With more than 100 stores and brands like DKNY, Coach, Michael Kors, and Hugo Boss, the Outlet Village is an Italian-themed shopping mall in Dubai that offers seasonal sales and discounted prices on handbags every day of the year and 50% off branded bags. It also has some great clothing options of brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein and sportswear from brands like Adidas.
After all that retail therapy, if you're looking to grab a bite or a meal - this mall offers some of the best dining destinations, coffee shops, fast food outlets and a seafood restaurant.
If you're living close to the city centre, this mall is just a 45-minute cab drive for you.
Where: E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road) between Downtown Jebel Ali and Ghantoot.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
2. Dubai Outlet Mall
This is the first outlet mall concept in the Middle East. With over 1200 brands and 240 retail stores, this mall is the ultimate choice for all things fashion and lifestyle, at discounts ranging between 30% and 90%.
At Dubai Outlet Mall, you will find always-on deals on both designer and high-end brands like Coach, Nine West, Burberry etc. However, there are some exceptions to these discounts on categories like electronics, jewellery and pharmaceuticals. You can also explore the food court and a host of restaurants at this mall while shopping.
Where: Dubai Al-Ain Road (Route 66), Dubai
Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
3. Meena Bazar
Located in the Bur Dubai district, whether you're a tourist or a resident, this market is a must-visit for everyone! Also known as Bur Dubai's 'Little India', this market is unlike any other you've seen.
From fabrics and traditional garments to shoes, jewellery, bags to furniture, perfumes, electronics and ceramics, this market has it all, across the various lanes of the market. In just a few dirhams, you can munch on some delicious snacks while getting the best deals on things you like. As an NRI, this will take you back to homeland, the minute you enter any of the many lanes.
Meena Bazar is not just known for its significantly cheaper prices, it is also a sight for some of the city's oldest gold and textile stores.
With prices and deals unlike any other to a wide collection across categories, this tops the list for any shopping enthusiast.
Where: Between Al Fahidi Street and Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road, Bur Dubai
Timings: 10:30 AM to 10:30 PM
4. Souk Madinat Jumeirah
This Arabic market is a hotspot among both tourists and residents for a variety of reasons. Nestled in the Madinat Jumeirah resort, this market is bustling with lanterns, spices, scents and souvenirs. This souk is a modern version of the traditional souks you see in Dubai. Unlike other markets, Souk Madinat Jumeirah hosts boutique local brands, unique homeware, jewellery and more. However, it offers a great deals and bargaining opportunities! As an NRI, you can shop for some great localized Arabic themed items that you could add to your home while setting up.
This market not only offers some great local things to buy, it also offers it all at an economical price. Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a must-visit if you're looking for off-beat collections of clothes and jewellery and some great spices to give your cooking a unique flavour.
Where: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St - Al Sufouh 1
Timings: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
While there are a some of the best shopping malls in Dubai, don't miss out on the these malls and markets too, that offer a great mix of always-on and seasonal sales and discounted prices, ensuring visitors enjoy a more cost-effective shopping experience.
As someone who has just moved to the UAE, knowing your supermarkets is a must too. Which is why we've compiled a list of the best Indian supermarkets for you!
