How To Shop Dubai Gold Souk Like An Expert
From the best shops for wedding jewellery to the incredible stories behind the family run businesses – and the best time of day to go, Bazaar Arabia shares everything you need to know before visiting the historical bazaar
In 2004 Pooja Pahuja stepped into the bustling interlinked alleys of the Dubai Gold Souk for the very first time. Having just secured a job in the city, the 28-year-old chose to commemorate the milestone accomplishment with a timeless piece of jewellery.
“I remember wandering through it, feeling a sense of wonder. Coming from India, where we have a custom of having the same jeweller for life, I was searching for a business I could trust,” the entrepreneur recalled.
Her quest led her through the network of shops, each adorned with glimmering gold, silver, and diamonds. 20 years later the bazaar’s allure still captivates her and she continues to frequent the souk when on the hunt for special pieces. Like many other people, Pooja holds the Dubai Gold Souk dear to her heart.
For some it’s the Old Dubai charm, for others it’s simply the variety and quality of jewellery that the historic market offers. Celebrating one of the city’s oldest and most cherished shopping destinations, Bazaar Arabia brings you a detailed guide on what the souk’s offers, how to navigate it and everything else you need to know from an insider’s perspective.
How To Shop Dubai Gold Souk Like An Expert
A Short History of The Dubai Gold Souk
The Dubai Gold Souk began in the early 1900s with a few local jewellers serving spice route traders along Dubai Creek. By the 1940s, favourable trade policies attracted Iranian and Indian business people, but it was the oil-fuelled economic boom of the 1970s that truly propelled the souk into its current status.
Over the years, the market has expanded from a modest 400 square meters to a sprawling complex that now covers an area of over two by three kilometres and houses more than 700 merchants.
But despite undergoing makeovers, the Dubai Gold Souk has managed to uphold its enduring appeal reminiscent of Old Dubai. It’s maze-like alleyways and ornately carved wooden roofs have preserved much of their historic allure.
The feeling inside the glimmering shops also remains the same with storekeepers offering Arabic coffee, Karak tea and soft drinks to customers, many who brave the sweltering GCC heat when on the hunt for new pieces.
Many jewellers have been in business for decades…
Speaking of its historic charm, one of the stores to start its journey at the souk decades ago, Al Anwaar Jewellers, comes to mind. Having opened in 1977, the business has been run by three generations of craftsmen.
Aarun Nathhani, who has been working at his family’s store for 28 years, shared how the business evolved.
Reflecting on the business’s journey, having carved out its own respective niche within a competitive market, Aarun said, “At first we were selling gold and diamonds and now we’ve moved completely to diamonds and high jewellery. The competition is immense.”
Through the years Al Anwaar, like many of the jewellers at the souk, has nurtured an ongoing relationship with customers and their families. For many of these buyers, shopping isn’t just a mere transaction but also a cherished tradition.
“Women and brides, especially from this region, come and choose their favourite pieces but they also ask their mothers and grandmothers to approve of their picks. It’s a form of respect for their elders,” he said. This tradition, deeply woven into the fabric of the souk, has been witnessed by entrepreneurs for years.
Al Anwaar Jewellers also curates exclusive shopping experiences, offering dedicated rooms for those wishing to try on pieces that can be valued upwards of Dhs10 million in privacy.
Aarun also personally delivers selected pieces to clients’ homes, emphasising, “Pictures don’t do justice to the sparkle of these gems. I always prefer showing them in person.”
Kanz Jewels also stands as another remarkable home-grown Dubai Gold Souk success story. It s director, Arjun Dhanak, recounted his journey to Bazaar Arabia, which began with childhood visits to the souk. His great-grandfather, hailing from a lineage of goldsmiths, arrived in Dubai in 1953 and was inspired by the prospect of establishing a jewellery enterprise that honoured a tradition of craftsmanship. Despite initial hurdles his determination paid off and, in 1983, Arjun’s father officially founded the family brand. What started as a single store with a small team of four has since blossomed into a thriving network of 12 shops.
The Dubai Gold Souk has even set records…
Kanz’s flagship store is also home to a remarkable attraction: the world’s largest gold ring, valued at Dhs 12,997,700 ($4.9 million); the large piece, which is the same size as a small barrel, is even recognised by Guinness World Records. This extraordinary ring draws both tourists and residents to the shop, eager to witness its grandeur in the City of Gold.
As you explore further, the souk’s display windows lavish creations, each one more decadent than the last: full-size vests woven out of gold thread and encrusted with precious gems. These stunning pieces, though seemingly placed at right at the face of the shops for their sheer shock value, pay testament to Dubai’s unique blend of opulence and tradition.
Weddings Shopping at The Dubai Gold Souk? Here’s Where You Need To Go…
Additionally, these extravagant experiences have given the marketplace a reputation for being a must-visit destination for brides. Given the UAE’s diverse population, soon-to-be-weds from each community have their preferred set of shops within the souk.
Indian brides often opt for Malabar Gold & Diamonds and Kalyan Jewellers, while Maison De ARY is a favourite amongst Pakistanis during wedding season. For Arabs, Al Romaizan, Damas, and their sister company, Jawahara, are must-visit destinations.
What Draws Visitors Back To The Dubai Gold Souk Time And Again?
Beyond the enduring relationships forged within its storied walls and the captivating charm of the market itself, it’s the assurance of purity and quality that sets it apart.
Here, patrons find not only an array of designs but also the guarantee that the gold they purchase has undergone rigorous testing overseen by the Dubai Municipality.
Planning a visit? Here’s what you need to keep in mind…
Now if you’re thinking of visiting for yourself, here’s what you need to know…
Cash and credit cards are both accepted.
You can make purchases without cash, as credit cards are also accepted.
Dubai Gold Souk Timings: What is the best time to go?
Most shops welcome customers between 10:00 to 22:00, although some stores may vary. While the area is shaded, the best time to visit is when the sun is setting or during the early hours of the day.
Is there parking?
There is parking by RTA all around the souk.
Dubai Gold Souk Location
The souk is located in the Al Ras area, in Deira, Dubai. If you are looking for a landmark, the Al Ras Metro Station is a five-minute walk from the market.
The Dubai Gold Souk remains a testament to tradition and luxury, blending historical charm with modern opulence. It’s a place where family-owned shops create lifelong relationships and visitors find timeless treasures. Whether you’re a bride searching for the perfect piece or a tourist seeking a unique experience, the souk is bound to take you on a captivating journey through the heart of Dubai’s rich heritage.
Image Credit: Efraim Evidor