Dubai Souvenirs: What to Buy in Dubai
Many people travel to the city of Dubai primarily for shopping, seeking to explore its modern and advanced shopping centers. If you’re wondering what to buy in Dubai, rest assured that you won’t leave the city empty-handed. With its contemporary allure, Dubai introduces you to the best and most sophisticated shopping destinations. In this article from the travel magazine “Gulf City Pedia,” we will guide you through the best Dubai souvenirs, ensuring you can shop with peace of mind and return home with the finest mementos from this vibrant city.
What to Buy in Dubai ?
Dubai offers a plethora of enticing souvenirs, reflecting its modern façade and sophisticated shopping centers. Whether you’re interested in oud and incense, Pashmina shawls, traditional Arabic abayas, spices, dried fruits and nuts, pottery, Arabian coffee and coffee pots, tea sets, Quranic verses on parchment, miniature sculptures of Dubai’s iconic towers, perfumes and their unique containers, gold and jewelry, camel milk chocolates, Mirzam chocolates, Arabic dates, hookahs, Arabic lanterns and Aladdin lamps, traditional shoes, Arabic daggers, flintlock rifles, or Dubai’s signature spices, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste.
Oud and Incense:
Explore the traditional Arab markets to discover the rich scents of oud and incense, integral to the region’s cultural heritage. Oud, an oil derived from the Agarwood tree, comes in various pure, blended, and herbal forms. Additionally, incense made from Agarwood chips emits a delightful fragrance when burned. These aromatic treasures can be acquired from markets or perfume shops in Dubai.
Pashmina Shawls:
Renowned in the Middle East, Pashmina shawls are crafted from a blend of silk and goat wool, featuring beautiful patterns. While they may be a bit pricey, it’s crucial to verify the authenticity and pricing before purchasing, as counterfeit products are common in the market.
Traditional Arabic Abayas:
Considered one of the best souvenirs for women, traditional Arabic abayas are far from simple black robes. These garments are crafted from diverse fabrics, some adorned with intricate embellishments or kept simple based on their purpose. If budget is not a concern and you’re inclined towards purchasing an elegant evening dress, an Arabic abaya might be the perfect Dubai souvenir for you.
This guide covers just a fraction of the diverse and fascinating souvenirs you can find in Dubai. Whether you’re exploring markets or shopping centers, you’re bound to discover even more items that align with your preferences, making your souvenir shopping experience truly memorable.
Kandura: Traditional Attire of the UAE
Arabic clothing is categorized into several styles, with one of them being the abaya and the other the kandura. The kandura, considered a souvenir from the United Arab Emirates, is a type of long formal attire that covers the body from shoulder to ankle. Due to the Arabian climate and the region’s warmth, lightweight fabrics are commonly used for this garment to ensure body cooling. Kanduras resemble tunics but have long and loose sleeves. This clothing is not unfamiliar to Iranian culture, and women in the southern regions also make use of these kanduras.
Dried Fruits and Nuts: A Tasty Treat
Emirati snacks are similar to those enjoyed by Iranians. Dried fruits and nuts are among the souvenirs in Dubai that can be bought and savored as snacks. Dried fruits such as apricots, figs, mulberries, and raisins, rich in nutrients, are considered some of the best Dubai souvenirs and are sold in both open markets and packaged form.
Pottery Products: Traditional Art of Dubai
Historically, ancient countries have had their share of pottery, and the UAE is no exception. Pottery is one of the essential traditional arts in this country, making pottery products one of the souvenirs of Dubai. Numerous shops in Dubai offer a variety of pottery items, including bowls of various sizes, pitchers for beverages, pots, and various sculptures. These pottery items are crafted in workshops by local artisans.
Arabic Coffee and Coffee Pots: A Rich Brew
The robust flavor and unique freshness of Arabic coffees always delight coffee enthusiasts. If you appreciate coffee, consider bringing Dubai souvenirs like Arabic coffee and coffee pots back home. Dubai’s coffee pots are typically made of copper, with some adorned with gold and silver decorations, commanding higher prices. These coffee pots can also serve as decorative items. Experiencing Arabic-style coffee can be intriguing for anyone, making coffee pots a suitable answer to the question of what to buy in Dubai.
Tea Sets: Exquisite and Decorative
Similar to coffee pots, tea sets serve both decorative and practical purposes. Arabic tea sets, adorned with unique traditional patterns, attract many buyers. The geometric patterns familiar to Iranian buyers signify the close cultural ties between the two countries. The sight of these tea sets might bring a sense of pleasure, prompting you to consider them as Dubai souvenirs.
Quran Stand
Given that the United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country, religious products can also be considered as Dubai souvenirs. Especially, intricately designed wooden Quran stands with various patterns and motifs can capture the attention of any tourist. Carved and ornamented Quran stands, along with various religious artifacts, can be brought as souvenirs from Dubai.
Miniature Sculptures of Dubai Towers
Due to the construction of iconic structures such as the Burj Khalifa and the Burj Al Arab, the UAE has always been at the forefront of skyscraper architecture worldwide. Due to the fame of these towers, small sculptures of these skyscrapers can be considered as Dubai souvenirs. These miniatures come in various sizes and materials, including glass, metal, plastic, and polyester, and can be found in Dubai’s decor shops, serving as souvenirs from the United Arab Emirates.
Arabic Perfume and Perfume Holders
The scents of the oil-based perfumes known as Arabic perfumes have gained significant popularity globally, making them one of the souvenirs of the UAE. These perfumes are produced from plant sources and are alcohol-free. Suitable for both men and women, these traditional souvenirs from Dubai offer a wide range of fragrances. With the guidance of sellers, you can choose a scent that suits you or even ask them to blend multiple fragrances for you. These traditional scents are highly appreciated in Dubai.
Moreover, perfume holders in Dubai have their unique shapes and are sold as decorative items. Alongside purchasing perfume, exploring beautiful perfume holders can be a delightful addition to your Dubai souvenir collection. The markets that offer these Dubai souvenirs are considered part of Dubai’s attractions, making shopping in these markets a two-in-one experience.
Gold and Jewelry of Dubai
You might wonder why gold and jewelry, which are available worldwide, are considered special souvenirs of a country. Arab jewelry, with its unique and distinct designs, has become one of the Dubai souvenirs. Crafted on some of the finest jewelry globally, these designs boast high purity gold. Items such as pendants, long necklaces, bracelets, and various rings, some surprisingly reasonably priced, are part of these Dubai souvenirs. The value of Arabic gold and jewelry makes them standout souvenirs from Dubai. If you are concerned about the price of Dubai souvenirs affecting your travel expenses, you can opt for an installment plan for a Dubai tour and manage your travel costs better, making your purchases with ease.
Camel Milk Chocolates
A must-try treat in Dubai is chocolates made from camel milk. Due to its extraordinary taste, these chocolates have gained significant popularity, becoming one of the souvenirs of Dubai. The ingredients of these chocolates include 70% cocoa, pure camel milk, flavoring, and dates. Some camel milk chocolates are shaped like camels and are reasonably priced. If you are worried about the cost of Dubai souvenirs, we recommend purchasing these chocolates as a delightful and affordable souvenir from Dubai.
Mirzam Chocolates
Mirzam chocolates truly embody the spirit of the United Arab Emirates and can be rightfully called a souvenir of this country, as they are exclusively crafted here. If you’ve embarked on a 5-night and 6-day Dubai tour and have ample time for exploration, visiting the Mirzam Chocolate Factory is a must. The company offers factory tours in various formats, taking you behind the scenes, much like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, to witness the chocolate-making process up close. In addition to observing the production line, you can even create your custom chocolates with your preferred packaging.
Arabian Dates
Dates are a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, making Arabian dates one of the best Dubai souvenirs. The high quality of dates produced in Dubai has elevated this product to one of the most popular souvenirs purchased by tourists. Dubai’s dates come in various varieties, allowing you to find the one that suits your taste best. Dates in Dubai have diverse uses, including being enjoyed with coffee, used as desserts, incorporated into non-alcoholic beverages, and gifted during the holy month of Ramadan.
Arabian Hookah (Shisha)
Hookah, a popular but potentially harmful smoking device! You might be surprised that someone suggests this as an answer to the question of what to buy from Dubai. However, an authentic Arabian hookah is something irreplaceable and can serve as a beautiful decorative item in your home. The hookah is beloved in Arab culture, and the beautiful and unique designs of Arabian hookahs make them worthy souvenirs. Even those unfamiliar with hookah culture, when visiting Dubai, might be drawn to it as one of the best Dubai souvenirs.
Arabian Lanterns and Lamps
Lanterns and lamps from Arabia make an ideal souvenir for those who appreciate decorative items, as they are commonly used as beautiful decor in Emirati homes. Arabian lanterns are crafted from brass and copper, featuring intricate filigree work and designs that enhance their beauty. You can place these lanterns on your table or hang them from somewhere in your home. Less expensive versions are made from glass and aluminum. When wondering about what Dubai souvenirs are, lanterns and lamps are among the best answers.
Aladdin’s Lamp
Surely, you’ve heard the story of Aladdin and his magical lamp. Now that you’ve stepped into this world of Arabian tales, what better and more interesting souvenir than a small Aladdin’s lamp? In response to the question of what to buy in Dubai, one might say that perhaps the best Dubai souvenirs are these Aladdin’s lamps. Easily found in markets and bazaars, these lamps come in various price ranges, and you can take one home as a charming piece of Dubai.
Traditional Arabian Footwear
Clothing and footwear from different cultures make excellent choices for souvenirs. Both men’s and women’s shoes in Arab fashion have unique designs. Therefore, they are suitable as souvenirs from Dubai. In addition to shoes, you can also explore local Dubai sandals. These sandals are very comfortable and come in various colors and patterns.
Arabian Daggers (Khanjar)
Arabian daggers, known as Khanjar, are part of traditional Emirati men’s attire. These souvenirs can be displayed as ornaments on your wall. The curved blades of Arabian daggers usually feature intricate markings or engravings. The more luxurious models of Arabian daggers have handles made from silver or marble. These daggers can be a good choice for those who do not mind the price of Dubai souvenirs and want to acquire a decorative item with precious stones.
Arabian Flintlock Pistols
Another symbol of Arab culture alongside daggers and swords is the flintlock pistol. Initially, buying a weapon may not seem like a sensible idea, but how about a decorative and antique firearm? Perhaps an Arabian flintlock pistol could be the best souvenir from Dubai for you. These pistols no longer serve any practical purpose but are adorned with decorations, making them a valuable gift, especially for those who say, “What should I buy from Dubai?” Just like with daggers, be sure to check the regulations and security measures regarding carrying weapons and souvenirs in Dubai before considering this item.
Dubai Spices
The quality of spices from Middle Eastern countries is renowned worldwide and transcends specific tastes and preferences. Dubai’s spice markets offer an endless array of popular and rare spices. Spices, without a doubt, make for a delightful Dubai souvenir, imparting pleasant aromas to your cuisine. However, transporting them in your luggage might lead to unwanted odors. To prevent this, pay extra attention when packing and carrying spices. You can consider spices as a souvenir from Dubai and acquire them for your loved ones.
Final Words
If you are someone who tends to be meticulous when buying souvenirs, you should know that the wide range of choices in Dubai’s markets makes the process very easy for you. Dubai offers a diverse array of edible products, handicrafts, decorative items, electronics, and clothing, with different price ranges for Dubai souvenirs to accommodate various budgets. This diversity caters to the needs and preferences of most individuals. It’s advisable to explore the markets with a bit of attention to the prices and quality of goods to find the ideal Dubai souvenirs for yourself, friends, and family. If you have traveled to this city before, we would be delighted if you shared your thoughts on Dubai souvenirs with us and other users.
