Dubai is and has been a genius of trade for centuries. Take a stroll through the city’s traditional souks to get a sense of what trade was like back in the day.
Gold Souk
The Gold Souk in the Deira area specializes in glitz and glamour. Presenting glittering displays of necklaces, bracelets and earrings from more than 300 retailers, the Gold Souk is one of the most well-known gold jewellery trading centres in the world. Approximately 20% of the world’s gold passes through this market.
The souk also sells platinum, diamonds and silver. You’re also guaranteed to get what you’re paying for. The government tightly controls what is sold and by who in the souk.
‘…glittering displays from more than 300 retailers…’
Spice Souk
On the other side of the creek is the Spice Souk, where vendors trade flavours from across the globe, including cinnamon, ginger and chili. This is also the place to stock up on saffron, as you’ll find this delectable spice at a much lower cost here than you would at home.
‘…cinnamon, ginger, chili and saffron…’
Try bargaining at the souks in Dubai; with a little effort negotiating, tourists usually get what they want for a quarter, and sometimes half of the price. Even if you don’t end up buying anything a trip to the markets is worthwhile for the cultural value and feast for the eyes and nose.
‘…cultural value…’