The United Arab Emirates' capital, Abu Dhabi is a wonderful shopping destination. The shopping experience here is a blend of the old and the new. While you can shop at traditional markets called souks, you may also shop for famous brands at glamorous malls. The shopping scene in Abu Dhabi therefore offers more than just buying things. It's about being a part of the city's tradition and modernity at the same time.
Traditional markets were the city's lifeline before the era of malls. For a slice of the past, you can still visit some of Abu Dhabi's traditional markets, one of the most exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi. Here are a few popular ones.
The Souk Central Market is very popular among shoppers. While being rebuilt recently, it still retains the ambiance of the old souk. Small shops selling jewellery, spices, perfumes and souvenirs line the souk. The fragrance of oud and spices fill the air creating a unique shopping environment. The friendly sellers don't mind at all if you bargain with them.
Fresh produce fills this market, making it very colourful indeed. Fruits, vegetables and flowers are sold here by sellers from many countries. It's fun to walk around the market buzzing with life and taste fresh samples even if you have no plans to buy.
You'll love visiting the Carpet Souk as well. You'll find a large stock of handwoven carpets at the souk from Afghanistan, Iran and other parts of the Middle East. Each carpet is adorned with beautiful designs that tell a story. The sellers here are more than happy to share the details of what the patterns on the carpets mean with you.
While the souks showcase Abu Dhabi's history, the malls tell the story of its modernisation and prosperity. There's more to these malls than just shopping. With amusement parks, restaurants and cinemas, they are complete entertainment hubs. We've picked the most popular ones for you.
This is one of Abu Dhabi's most luxurious malls. You can shop for high-end brands of the stature of Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Chanel here. It's a beautiful place you'll love walking around even if you aren't into shopping for luxury items. The mall offers beautiful waterfront views and there are many dining options.
Located on Yas Island, Yas Mall is another favourite among shoppers. Other exciting attractions like Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World are close by. There's something that suits the taste of all shoppers at this massive mall. It's home to famous fashion brands and there are electronic stores as well. You can grab a quick bite at the food court here. Catch the latest films at the cinema. Your kids are sure to love it at the exclusive kids' playing area.
This is another of Abu Dhabi's very popular malls. Located close to the Emirates Palace Hotel, the mall has a mix of shops selling both affordable items as well as luxury brands. There's a bowling alley and also an ice skating rink. Admire beautiful views while on the Abu Dhabi city tour and the sea from the observation deck here at the mall.
Many visitors like to buy souvenirs to remember the visit by when they go shopping in Abu Dhabi. The traditional perfumes like oud and frankincense make for very good gifts. They're sold at both malls and souks.
Dates too are very popular as souvenirs. This sugary sweet fruit has been entwined inseparably with life in the Emirates. You can take home fancy boxes of dates that many shops sell in Abu Dhabi.
Another unique gift is chocolate made from camel milk. Sold in very beautiful packages, these chocolates have real camel milk as a major ingredient. They're sold at malls, airports and specialty shops as well.
Also, there are handwoven baskets, pottery items and paintings made by local artists that you can buy if you like works of art. These items showcase the creativity of the people of the Emirates. Buying a souvenir or two during the city tour shall remind you of the wonderful time you had here.
Bargaining is a part of the experience at traditional souks. Don't shy away from negotiating the price. Sellers not only enjoy the experience, they love conversing with you. You should start by offering half the price they ask for and then make your way up slowly. Don't forget to stay polite and keep a smile on your face during the entire transaction. You may receive a token gift like a key chain or free spice sample at times.
The prices in the big malls are, however, fixed. It's not common to bargain here. It's during special shopping festivals or public holidays that sales are held.
Try visiting Abu Dhabi during special festivals if you love shopping. Usually happening in the winter, the Abu Dhabi Shopping Season is a big event. Apart from the huge discounts offered at the malls, you'll find special events like concerts and fireworks shows being held during the gala shopping event. Shops in Abu Dhabi are affected by the Dubai Shopping Festival as well. There are discounts on offer from many brands across the country. If you visit during these shopping festivals, not only do you find great discounts, you can also enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Abu Dhabi offers a special shopping experience making it an absolute paradise for shoppers. Enjoy shopping at traditional markets exuding old world charm or visit luxurious malls to grab the latest designer wear. Contact a leading travel agency in Dubai for a great shopping experience in Abu Dhabi. From a simple box of dates to designer handbags, shop till you drop. Shopping in Abu Dhabi is about more than just buying, it's about being one with the vibrancy of life here. Come, be a part of the great shopping experience Abu Dhabi offers.
