Ask any shopaholic who has been to Abu Dhabi, and they are bound to tell you that it’s a place to shop till you drop… before refuelling and resting, so you can keep shopping some more! Here’s a sneak peek at some of the key places to enjoy retail therapy.

First, Choose Accommodation
Of course, before you head off on your shopping spree, find an ideal place to stay. Choose CBD properties like Oaks Liwa Executive Suites Abu Dhabi, which are within easy reach of top retail hubs like Abu Dhabi Mall, around a 10-minute walk away. You can stay at spacious suites complete with a fully equipped kitchenette and enjoy access to an outdoor pool and sauna when you want to unwind after a long day of shopping.

Popular Malls
Those at CBD-based hotel apartments in Abu Dhabi can head to Abu Dhabi Mall, home to more than 200 stores, including fashion brands like H&M and Zara. On Yas Island, you get the Yas Mall with lots of shops, an Apple store and a well-known luxury department store, Tryano. Fashionistas will love Avenue at Etihad Towers, where designer brands such as Bulgari, Versace and Givenchy all vie for your attention! Don’t forget The Galleria Al Maryah Island and World Trade Centre Mall, too.

Other Retail Hubs
If you are on the lookout for home furnishings, head to the Liwa Centre, where you will find offerings from names like Home Box and Home Centre. Those looking to add some “bling” to their collection should definitely visit the Madinat Zayed Gold Centre, while over at the Hamdan Centre, you will find leather goods and bespoke jewellery. Meanwhile, if you are staying in an apartment with a kitchen, the Grand Emirates Market is a good place to buy groceries and meat.

Image by Danor Aharon from Pixabay

Lively Markets
Apart from modern malls, there are traditional souks as well. For the best of both worlds, visit the Abu Dhabi Central Market (at the World Trade Centre), which offers a souk-like setting to buy spices, Arabic coffee pots, handicrafts, textiles, jewellery and more. For something more traditional, head out of the city to Al Ain Souk, featuring locally sourced goods and crafts. While here, also visit Souk Al Bawadi (great for carpets) and Al Ain Central Market, which has a livestock section and even a camel market!