“Happiness is not in money, but in shopping.”
Dubai is truly a shopper’s paradise with a plethora of options offering almost everything—you name it, and you get it. People from various parts of the globe get their Dubai visa, hop on a plane, and flock here to shop for gold, diamonds, perfumes, shoes, luxury items, electronics, designer labels, carpets, and spices. You can either venture out to its large, opulent shopping malls or visit the local places; either way, you are sure to be captivated by the delightful aura of this hotspot. For shopping at the malls, you must visit them between 10 am and 10 pm, but you can’t bargain here; the prices remain fixed. The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is the most happening event where you can avail yourself of unbelievable discounts.
For the ultimate guide to shopping in Dubai, we take you through popular shopping spots that you should visit when you are in Dubai:
1. Dubai Shopping Festival:
The Dubai Shopping Festival is one of the largest and longest-running festivals for shopping in the world. Below are the details about the festival to enjoy your shopping experience.
- Best Transportation Option: Metro is the best option to navigate Dubai during DSF 2024, as the major malls like Dubai Mall, etc., are on their routes. If you are looking for convenience, then taxis are your best choice.
- Discounts: Unbeatable discounts of up to 75% on top brands, raffles for gold, cars, and cash prizes.
- USP: The world’s largest shopping festival with fireworks, live concerts, and exclusive deals.
- Local vs. Tourist Favourite: For international travellers, this is a tourist magnet because of its unbeatable deals and entertainment.
- Best Time to Visit: This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Dubai Shopping Festival. DSF 2024 will be held from 6th December, 2024, to 12th January, 2025. During the DSF 2024, the best time to visit is early mornings or weekdays for smaller crowds. Weekends are lively but packed.
2. Dubai Mall: A Shopper's Dream
Dubai Mall is situated at the heart of Dubai and is just 15-20 minutes from the airport. With thousands of stores, this place offers a premium place for shopping.
- Best Transportation Option: Metro
- Discounts: Seasonal sales offer discounts up to 50% with deals during the Dubai Shopping Festival being the most rewarding.
- USP: This is the world’s largest mall with attractions like the Dubai Aquarium, VR Park, and Fashion Avenue.
- Local vs Tourist Favorite: Tourist favorite for luxury and variety.
- Best Time to Visit: Visit weekdays before 5 PM to avoid crowds.
3. Mall of the Emirates:
![Mall_of_the_Emirates[1].jpg](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcms-in.musafir.com%2Fuploads%2FMall_of_the_Emirates_1_091117baa5.jpg&w=2048&q=75)
- Best Transportation Option: Metro or taxi for a smooth journey.
- Discounts: Luxury brands have occasional sales, while mid-range stores offer 25%-50% off during the Dubai Shopping Festival.
- USP: The only mall in the world with an indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai, with a blend of high-end and budget-friendly stores.
- Local vs. Tourist Favourite: Locals visit this mall for its unique attractions, while for tourists, the wow factor is its mix of retail and entertainment.
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings or early afternoons during weekdays.
4. Ibn Battuta Mall
![Ibn_Battuta_Mall[1].jpg](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcms-in.musafir.com%2Fuploads%2FIbn_Battuta_Mall_1_89d9737f57.jpg&w=2048&q=75)
- Best Transportation Option: Metro is the most economical option.
- Discounts: Great deals on mid-range brands and unique souvenirs too.
- USP: Themed courts inspired by different countries.
- Local vs. Tourist Favourite: Locals love this place for budget-friendly shopping, and tourists are drawn to its cultural uniqueness.
- Best Time to Visit: Early evenings during weekdays.
5. Deira City Centre
- Best Transportation Option: Metro for quick access.
- Discounts: You can get the best deals here for electronics.
- USP: Deira City Centre is one of Dubai’s oldest malls with a mix of affordable and mid-range shopping.
- Local vs. Tourist Favourite: This is popular among locals for its familiarity and affordability.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning hours for minimal crowds.
6. Mirdif City Centre
![Mirdif_City_Center[1].jpg](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcms-in.musafir.com%2Fuploads%2FMirdif_City_Center_1_d62627dfb8.jpg&w=2048&q=75)
- Best Transportation Option: Taxi or a mix of metro and short taxi rides.
- Discounts: Seasonal sales and offers.
- USP: Unique attractions like iFly (indoor skydiving) and eco-conscious shopping.
- Local vs. Tourist Favourite: A local hotspot for its relaxed atmosphere and entertainment.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons when the mall is quieter.
7. Dubai Festival City Mall (DFC)
![Dubai_Festival_City_Mall[1].jpg](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcms-in.musafir.com%2Fuploads%2FDubai_Festival_City_Mall_1_a922d17e2f.jpg&w=2048&q=75)
- Best Transportation Option: Taxi for quick access.
- Discounts: Offers excellent deals at IKEA.
- USP: USP is the Imagine Show, a must-see light and water spectacle.
- Local vs. Tourist Favourite: Locals enjoy IKEA, and tourists love the waterfront vibe.
- Best Time to Visit: Visit during sunset to enjoy both shopping and the outdoor ambience.
To know more about the shopping in Dubai, please visit below: