What to Buy in Dubai: Best Souvenirs List

Find out what to buy in Dubai with our list of the best souvenirs, from traditional items to luxury goods. Shop for unique gifts and memorable keepsakes! Retail therapy is the ideal term to define Dubai in one way if not in every way. No, not everyone will agree to it, but most of us relate Dubai to shopping. With so many local markets and luxurious malls spread across, this feeling is quite normal. Hence, you can say that locals and tourists come here mostly to experience the shopping culture. Besides, Dubai experiences shopping festivals and events. This is the time when you get huge sales, offers, and discounts on your purchase.

What to Buy in Dubai?

There are plenty of things to Buy in Dubai, however, it can be a daunting task to figure out what to buy from the malls or souks. Interested in buying handmade or vintage items? Well, you must cover the souks in old Dubai. In case, you want to buy designer or branded items, malls in Dubai are the best place. One thing that everyone must keep in mind is you have to extend your budget once you are here.

If you are a first time visitors and wondering what to buy in Dubai then keep reading. Here is a guide to the things that you can buy. Of course, the list doesn’t include the obvious options like fridge magnets. No, these are not the souvenirs to get from Dubai. Also, we didn’t include the common Aladdin lamps. Let’s check out what to buy in Dubai during your trip.

Before moving forward, let us inform you that if you are coming during the December month and looking for new year Dubai package then make sure to check our below list that will clear the cloud regarding what to buy in Dubai, let’s start!

List of Souvenirs to Buy from Dubai

We created a list of the most loved souvenirs to buy on the Dubai holiday. So, when you give these gifts to your relatives or friends that precious smile will win your heart for sure. So, if you are wondering what to buy in Dubai then souvenirs would be the best option.

1. Camel-themed souvenirs

Camels are a crucial part of the Emirati culture. Hence, it’s a no-brainer fact that camel-themed souvenirs are common to find. The ‘Ship of the Desert’ holds importance in the history of the Arabs. Hence, you will surely find small to large figurines made of metal, wood, or ceramic. Furthermore, home décor items will be available in plenty. In addition, camel leather belts and wallets are also perfect souvenir options.

2. Gold and gold jewelry

There is a reason behind Dubai known as the ‘City of Gold.’ The city is the biggest global trading location of gold items, especially jewelry. Hence, you will get all the latest designs with minute detailing. Therefore, whether you want 14 karat or 24 karat, you will get everything. For souvenirs, you can buy gold-plated replicas of Dubai’s famed landmarks as a cultural symbol.

3. Perfumes and Oud

Arabian perfumes and ouds are famous all over the world. Therefore, no other place is better than Dubai to buy perfumes or oud. Do you know oud is famous as agarwood, which is a priceless resin derived from the agar tree? Hence, ouds have a subtle woody but rich fragrance. Therefore, you can buy oud-based incense sticks, oils, or perfumes. The perfumes come in designer bottles that look absolutely luxurious.

4. Dates and Stuffed Dates

Dubai is famous for another thing- dates. Yes, dates hold a cultural significance in the history of the Middle East. Locals mostly consume it in religious gatherings. Hence, you can visit the dates market as you will find a huge variety of dates- Mejool dates, Khallas, and Khalas. Another unique yet must-invest souvenir you can get is stuffed dates with nuts, dried fruits, or creamy fillings. The dates come in fancy boxes.

5. Gahwa or Arabic Coffee

Dubai’s aromatic coffee is a perfect welcome drink offered in hotels, cruise parties, and desert safaris. It is a traditional coffee made from lightly roasted coffee beans. In addition, there are other spices used like cardamom and spices used. Gahwa plays a significant role in the Arab culture.

6. Spices and Herbs

Did you know that the spice souks in Dubai are world-famous? Walking through the lanes of the spice souk is both a sensory and aromatic experience. Spices to get from these markets are saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, sumac, and turmeric. Furthermore, dried herbs are also a must-buy like rosemary, thyme, and mint.

Wearable souvenirs

Now, when it comes to garments and wondering what to buy in Dubai then this is for you. Dubai is also famous for selling wearable souvenirs. So, yes you can get those authentic gold jewelry, coffee, or spices. However, make sure to get clothing items. Here are a few listed options.

1. Pashmina Shawls

Also famous by the name Cashmere shawls, these are made out of premium quality wools. The wools are taken from the Himalayan Mountain goats. Therefore, you can expect the same Cashmere wools here. A 100% pure Pashmina shawl is quite pricey, handmade, and comes with a matte finish.

2. Kaftans

Kaftans are long-length maxi dresses cut into shorter tunic versions. This outfit looks trendy and females wear it in different parts of the Middle East and North Africa. Kaftans are available in different forms- full-sleeved, maxi length, open floor, and some with buttons. You can definitely get them as the best souvenirs of Dubai for your female friends or family.

Eatable souvenirs

Now if you are a food lover and wondering what to buy in Dubai, then this list is for you. Eatables sold in Dubai are also a must-buy when it comes to investing in them as souvenirs. Therefore, here is a list of some eatable souvenirs.

1. Camel Milk Chocolates

You can buy camel milk chocolates for little ones. These chocolates come with a unique taste due to the presence of camel milk. Besides, the rich and creamy flavors add a special touch to it.

2. Mirzam Chocolate

This is a branded chocolate available in Dubai. Mirzam is a handcrafted chocolate. However, there is a twist. These chocolates are inspired by the authentic flavors and ingredients of the Middle East.

3. Arabian sweets and treats

Upon exploring the Dubai shops, you will find a variety of Arabian sweets and treats. A few great choices are baklava (layered pastries with a filling of nuts and sweet syrup), Turkish delight, and dates with fillings.

Miscellaneous Souvenirs

Moving forward regarding what to buy in Dubai, here is a list of some of the miscellaneous souvenirs that you can take home as a memory of Dubai.

1. Pearls

Dubai’s history of pearl trading and diving will remain a fascinating unknown fact. It’s the sign of prestige and luxury of the region. Hence, you can buy pearl jewelry as souvenirs.

2. Calligraphed necklaces

Arabic calligraphy not only looks sophisticated, but also beautiful. Besides, it is on the UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Buy gold or silver necklaces with names engraved in Arabic calligraphy.

3. Embroidered shoes

The local markets and souks sell intricately embroidered khussa or juttis. You will mostly find them in Bur Dubai and Deira. Hence, you can definitely buy them for your friends or family.

4. Traditional incense

Incense holds a major significance in the history of Emirati culture. Therefore, you will find them in different shops. You can buy products, like bakhoor (aromatic wood chips), bukhoor burners, or incense sticks.

Final words

So, this was all about what to buy in Dubai. We know that Dubai features so much and so many that everything seems tempting and unique to buy. This list has everything that you can call as perfect Dubai souvenirs. Hopefully, our list of souvenirs will put a smile on your loved ones’ faces.