Gold, Diamonds & Perfume: The Most Unique Things You Can Actually Buy in Dubai
Sunday, 27 April 2025
When it comes to luxury shopping, Dubai stands tall as one of the most extravagant and diverse retail destinations in the world. Beyond the designer labels and high-end malls, Dubai offers a treasure trove of unique items that truly define the city’s opulence and culture. From 24-karat gold to custom-made diamond jewelry and exotic Arabic perfumes, here are the most unique things you can actually buy in Dubai.
Table of Contents
- Camel Milk Chocolate – A Sweet Arabian Twist
- Traditional Lanterns – Art in Light
- Arabic Coffee – A Taste of Heritage
- Dallah (Arabic Coffee Pots) – A Traditional Icon
- Gold Jewelry
- Spices – A World of Flavour
- Pashmina Shawls
- Arabic Perfumes
- OUD (AGARWOOD)
- LUXURY WATCHES
- ARABIC CARPETS & RUGS
- TRADITIONAL ARABIC CLOTHING
- DUBAI-THEMED SOUVENIRS
- Frequently asked questions
1. Camel Milk Chocolate – A Sweet Arabian Twist
Kick off your Dubai shopping experience with a truly unique treat: camel milk chocolate. Made by Al Nassma, these chocolates blend rich camel milk with bourbon vanilla and pure cocoa butter, offering a taste that’s as exotic as it is delicious. This luxurious chocolate is an edible symbol of Dubai’s Arabian heritage.
Where to Buy: Al Nassma kiosks in major Dubai malls
2. Traditional Lanterns – Art in Light
Emirati-style lanterns are a charming and affordable memento. These intricate pieces, often made of copper, tin, and colored glass, reflect expert craftsmanship and centuries-old tradition. Whether hung indoors or used as outdoor decor, they add a magical glow to any space.
Where to Buy: Deira Grand Souk, Karama Souq, Hamriya Centre, Dragon Mart, Homes R Us
3. Arabic Coffee – A Taste of Heritage
Aromatic and bold, Arabic coffee (or qahwa) is deeply embedded in Emirati hospitality. Specialty cafes and retailers across the city offer premium blends, from earthy to subtly spiced. It’s a flavorful souvenir for coffee lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Where to Buy: Specialty Batch, Jabena, Seven Fortunes, Al Rifai, Café Bateel, Coffee Planet
4. Dallah (Arabic Coffee Pots) – A Traditional Icon
These beautifully crafted coffee pots, known locally as dallah, are more than just utensils—they’re cultural icons. Some versions are passed down as family heirlooms, often made from precious metals. Whether ornate or simple, they make a meaningful gift or decoration.
Where to Buy: Deira Grand Souk, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Perfume Souk, mall souvenir stores
5. Gold Jewelry
Dubai, famously dubbed the “City of Gold,” truly lives up to its name. The city boasts expansive gold markets offering a wide spectrum of exquisite jewelry, from classic designs to contemporary styles. Thanks to tax-free shopping and prices linked to international market rates, gold in Dubai is often more affordable than in many Western nations—making it one of the most valuable purchases for visitors.
Where to Buy:
- Dubai Gold Souk in Deira – Home to hundreds of gold retailers
- Gold and Diamond Park, Sheikh Zayed Road – Ideal for bespoke and high-end purchases
6. Spices – A World of Flavour
End your souvenir shopping at the Spice Souk, where aromas from across the globe await. From saffron and sumac to cardamom and curry powders, this is the place to stock up on flavors that’ll transport your tastebuds straight to the Middle East.
Where to Buy: The Spice Souk, Deira
7. Pashmina Shawls
If you’re seeking a touch of luxury to bring home, pashmina shawls are a superb choice. These soft, warm wraps are crafted from the fine undercoat of Himalayan goats and are admired for their elegance and delicate texture.
Where to Buy:
- Karama Market – Great for budget-friendly finds
- Pashmina House, Al Fahidi – For premium, authentic shawls
8. Arabic Perfumes
Arabic perfumes are deeply rooted in regional traditions and are known for their bold, lasting aromas. Unlike alcohol-based Western fragrances, these are oil-based and often include oud, musk, amber, and rose extracts.
Where to Buy:
- Deira Perfume Souk – A paradise for fragrance lovers
- High-end boutiques in Dubai Mall – For luxury perfume collections
9. OUD (AGARWOOD)
Oud, or agarwood, is a highly prized ingredient in the world of perfumery. Harvested from the agarwood tree, it’s transformed into rich oils or burned as incense to create a warm, woody aroma.
Where to Buy:
- Deira Spice Souk – For authentic and budget-friendly options
- Luxury fragrance outlets in Dubai Mall – For premium oud selections
10. LUXURY WATCHES
Dubai’s upscale malls feature a dazzling array of luxury watches. From timeless Rolexes to limited-edition Swiss brands, the city is a hotspot for horology enthusiasts.
Where to Buy:
- Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates – Both home to flagship watch boutiques
11. ARABIC CARPETS & RUGS
If you’re into home decor, traditional Arabic rugs and carpets are a meaningful and artistic buy. Handwoven from wool or silk, they often showcase intricate patterns rooted in Persian heritage.
Where to Buy:
- Karama Souk – Offers affordable and decorative choices
- National Iranian Carpets – High-end rugs with authentic craftsmanship
12. TRADITIONAL ARABIC CLOTHING
For those who want a keepsake that truly represents Emirati culture, traditional garments like abayas, kaftans, and dishdashas are meaningful purchases. They’re often beautifully stitched and crafted from luxurious fabrics.
Where to Buy:
- Karama Market and Deira – Known for a variety of styles and price ranges
13. DUBAI-THEMED SOUVENIRS
No trip is complete without a keepsake that encapsulates your Dubai memories. From iconic Burj Khalifa replicas to camel figurines and skyline artwork, the options are endless.
Where to Buy:
- Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Global Village – Both are treasure troves of themed gifts
From glittering gold and dazzling diamonds to the seductive scent of Arabic perfumes, Dubai offers shopping experiences that go far beyond ordinary. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or find the perfect gift, these unique luxury items are more than just purchases — they’re a piece of Dubai’s soul.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the most popular souvenirs to buy in Dubai?
Dubai is famous for souvenirs like gold jewelry, Arabic perfumes, camel milk chocolates, pashmina shawls, and traditional Arabic coffee pots. These items reflect the city’s rich culture and heritage.
Is gold cheaper in Dubai?
Yes, gold is often more affordable in Dubai due to the absence of taxes and import duties. Prices are also based on international market rates, ensuring transparency and good value.
Where can I buy authentic Arabic perfumes in Dubai?
You can find authentic Arabic perfumes at the Deira Perfume Souk, Dubai Mall, and other specialty perfume shops. Many stores offer customizable blends made from oud, musk, amber, and rose.
Are camel milk products available for tourists?
Absolutely! Camel milk products like chocolates and soaps are widely available at malls, specialty shops, and stores like Al Nassma and The Camel Soap Factory.
What is the best place to shop for spices in Dubai?
The Spice Souk in Deira is the top destination for buying high-quality spices like saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon. Be prepared to haggle for the best deals!
Can tourists buy traditional Arabic clothing in Dubai?
Yes, tourists can purchase traditional garments like abayas, dishdashas, and kaftans in markets such as Karama, Deira, and Global Village.
Is it okay to haggle in Dubai’s souks?
Yes, bargaining is a common practice in traditional souks like the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Perfume Souk. It’s a part of the shopping culture and expected by vendors.
What are some luxury items worth buying in Dubai?
Luxury shoppers often seek out high-end watches, gold jewelry, oud perfumes, and handcrafted Arabic carpets. Dubai’s tax-free status often makes these items more affordable than in other countries.
