The vibrant desert Emirate of Dubai has in recent years consolidated its status as a major visitor destination. One of its principal attractions is without doubt Dubai’s sensational shopping opportunities which include everything from electronics to designer clothes and watches. In addition to splendid air-conditioned modern shopping malls and specialist boutiques you will also find a number of souks, or traditional marketplaces in this captivating city.

Dubai’s mesmeric souks offer a shopping experience which is very different from the shopping opportunities to be found anywhere else in the world. In fact many visitors from the world over come to Dubai primarily to shop at these amazing marketplaces. Each souk specialises in a particular commodity; for example you will find souks offering gold, textiles, spices, fish, meat, electronics, perfume and vegetables. All of these marketplaces are located in the bustling commercial area of Deira.

Of these exotic marketplaces perhaps the most popular and esteemed is the splendid Gold Souk. At this at times bewilderingly animated market you will find a vast array of shops, an amazing variety of merchandise and very reasonably priced products. The Gold Souk has existed since the early 1940s when merchants and traders from Iran and India set up their stalls within this locality.

Today this spectacular bazaar has evolved into the ultimate attraction for lovers of jewellery. At every window you will see a multitude of necklaces, bracelets, rings, emeralds, diamonds, sapphires, rubies and much more creating a fabulous environment. This souk looks even more breathtaking in the evening and night hours framed against the desert sky.

According to fairly accurate estimates it is thought that about ten tonnes of gold may be found at any one instance within the souk. Since gold is primarily sold according to weight, it will make sense to ascertain the current price of the commodity before making any purchases. The other point to keep in mind is that it is vital to barter hard to obtain attractive prices and this process is essential and expected here.

If you will be visiting the Emirate and are selecting UAE hotels a discerning choice would be the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East. These convenient Middle East hotels offer attractive accommodation with courteous hospitality.