If you want to purchase unique Arabian things at affordable prices, then go to the markets in Abu Dhabi . Here you can buy a variety of goods, while sellers are very fond of bargaining. You will be able to bring down the price in 2 or even 3 times.
general information
Shopping in the UAE is fun and interesting. In addition to the huge shopping centers in Abu Dhabi, markets that the country calls the word "souk" flourish. In the old days, ships from India and the Far East sailed into the city. The merchants unloaded their ships and sold their goods in the bazaars. Due to this in the village it was always possible to purchase a variety of fabrics, incense, carpets, spices and household items.
Today the assortment of the goods has considerably expanded, and visitors from such variety simply run up eyes. Even if you are not going to buy anything, then visit the markets in Abu Dhabi to plunge into the local flavor, learn to bargain and get acquainted with the traditional trade of the East.
By the way, there are points of sale on all the streets of the city. It sells fine perfumes, unique souvenirs, traditional clothes, delicate silk and warm fur coats. The product is of high quality and created using modern technology.
Popular bazaars in the city
In the village there are several markets that differ between each other with the device and goods. The largest and most popular in Abu Dhabi are:
- Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Market - fruit and vegetable market. It amazes tourists with its various colors. Here you can buy all kinds of products from 1 kg to a whole box. By the way, even the photos in this market are very bright and original.
- Old Souk is an old market. It is the very first in the city, so it differs from modern outlets. In this unique place you can feel the entourage of Arab trade and buy any goods, from jewelry to antiquities. Special excursions are even organized here.
- Al-Zafarana (Al Zafarana) - the Arab market, where you can see the traditions of the Emirates interspersed with modernity. Here they sell henna, spices, incense, clothes. On the territory of the bazaar is the village of Mubdia, only women can visit. The bazaar is open from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 20:00 to midnight.
- Karyat (market Cariati) - a modern market that is equipped with the latest technology. The main highlight of the establishment is a water taxi. To any bench in the bazaar, you can get on a boat by twisting artificial canals.
- Central Market is the central market, created in the traditional Arabic style. It stands out against the background of the city with white-blue domes. On the territory of the bazaar there are about 400 shops, where they offer to buy goods of local brands.
- Al Qaws is a modern market in Abu Dhabi in the open air. The rows here are clearly arranged according to plan, and around everything shines with purity. The bazaar is located in the Al Ain district and operates from 08:00 in the morning until 22:00 in the evening.
- Al Bawadi is an ancient traditional market, which today is part of the Bawadi Mall. Here there are about 50 shops selling souvenirs, medicines, clothes, shoes, food and essential goods, and changing money.
- Produce Souq (Produce Souq) - a food market where you can buy oriental sweets, fruits, vegetables, etc. The choice in the market is huge and high-quality. In order to buy fresh and delicious goods, it is necessary to come here before 08:00 in the morning.
Thematic markets in Abu Dhabi
In the capital of the country there are not only traditional Arabian bazaars, but also those that have a certain direction. The best of them are:
- Meena Fish (Meena Fish) is a fish market located in the free port of Mina Zayed. Here the traditional way of life of the aborigines living near the sea has been preserved. Fishermen every morning unload their catch on the pier, and then trade. The bazaar is open from 04:30 until 06:30. Buyers should remember about the specific smell of the terrain and do not wear new clothes.
- Mina Road (Mina Road) - carpet market in Abu Dhabi, which sell coverlets, mattresses and factory-made carpets, brought from Yemen. If you look good, you can find handmade products. On the market you can buy pillows of the Majlis at fairly democratic prices.
- Iranian Souq (Iranian Souq) is an Iranian market that will suit those who want to experience unforgettable shopping experiences. The bazaar is located in the port, near the shipyard. Here, they sell Persian covers, carpets, pillows, rugs, dates, spices, sweets and other souvenirs.
- Gold Souq (Gold Souq) - the gold market, which sells all kinds of jewelry, impressive by its size and weaving. Basically, the goods in the market are purchased by local sheikhs for their harem, so tourists will have something to see.
What other markets are there in Abu Dhabi?
The city also has flea markets. You can buy a wide variety of goods here: chic carpets and tablecloths, exclusive carpets and weapons, national dresses and ornaments. Many of them have already been in use, but there are absolutely new things. The most popular such bazaar is located in Al Safa Park .
For lovers of sea adventure in the village is another flea market, which is located in the park Khalifa. Here, visitors often exchange stories about the life of sailors. Sell equipment in the market for ships, as well as designer things: furniture, accessories, bags, jewelry, etc.
Although in Abu Dhabi there is a huge number of shops and shopping centers, but the markets do not lose their relevance and still enjoy great popularity not only among the guests of the city, but also among local residents.