SHOPPING

Dubai, a shopaholic’s dream. One of the greatest attractions for visitors to Dubai is it superb shopping facilities. As Dubai has very low import duties and no taxation to speak of, the city can offer some unbeatable bargains. Like any other city you do have to shop around for them and why not in the huge malls. Nearly all the major brands, not forgetting the designer labels, are readily available. The modern shopping malls are conveniently located throughout Dubai and provide at times an opulence with their marble floors and stained glass domes. No matter if you are looking for French fashion, Japanese electronics, Italian suits or footwear then Dubai’s Malls are your answer. It is hard to keep up with the all the new malls opening

Some of the malls and souks worth a mention are:

Dubai Mall - The largest shopping mall in the world. It has everything you would want. A massive aquarium (why not book a dive to feed the sharks), ice skating rink, Sega world, cinemas, top end designer shops, largest indoor gold market in the world, the list is endless. Of course it is next to the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa, so why not take a trip to the 124th floor, something not to be missed

Mall of the Emirates - This was the  largest shopping mall outside of North America until the Dubai Mall opened. It has 200+ shops, cinemas, plus the Ski Centre. Has many international high street chains as well as luxury brand stores, including Harvey Nichols. Many restaurants and cafes, though cafes tend to be much more crowded than at other malls. Very large Carrefour hypermarket attached. Arabian/Middle Eastern souvenir shops upstairs. Multiplex cinema and The Kempinski Hotel are attached to this mall.

Ibn Battuta Mall - Jebel Ali - Areas themed around six countries (China, India, Persia, Egypt, Tunisia and the Andalusia.) Wide range of shops, although fewer high class brands. Has various restaurants and cafes and a multiplex cinema including an Imax. No restaurants serve alcohol. Also has permanent exhibition of Islamic science, invention and astronomy. Has a Geant hypermarket attached. There is a complimentary shuttle service from one end of the mall to the other. Yes it is that long. Even if you are not a shopper this is well worth a visit.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah - Jumeirah Road, - 75 shops, numerous bars, restaurants and cafes, a nightclub, theatre. More expensive and targeted directly at tourists than other, general malls where residents go. Most bars and restaurants are licensed for alcohol. Nice to wander through as it has been designed to resemble a "traditional" souq, but with the modern comforts of air conditioning. Lots of souvenir-type shops. Really, not one to be missed.

Burjuman Centre - Khalifa Bin Zayed Road, - Recently opened after expansion, focus is on premium brand designer stores and luxury boutiques, but high street stores are also available.

Deira City Centre - This is a popular mall in Dubai and houses Debenhams, Virgin Megastore, Zara and other international high street brands. It houses a multiplex cinema, and many restaurants and cafes. Also has a large "Arabian Treasures" souvenir and traditional textiles area. Big Carrefour hypermarket attached

Wafi Mall - Marks & Spencer, Goodies. Focus is almost entirely on luxury brands, jewellery and expensive boutiques. Many up market restaurants and bars, many of which are licensed (have alcohol available). A luxury spa is attached to the complex. The Egypt-themed architecture, which includes quite beautiful stained-glass pyramids, is worth seeing. Near the new Raffles Hotel which is worth a visit for afternoon tea.

Festival City – Not long opened and has Ikea, Marks and Spencers, Panda hypermarket as well as hundreds of other stores and restaurants. Linked to the new Intercontinental Hotel. There is a canal running past this mall with small dhows or abras to take you from one location to another.

Mercato Mall - Jumeirah Beach Road. The only Renaissance-themed shopping mall in the Middle East. Cinemas, Virgin Megastore, high street brands such as Next, Top Shop. Also has a Spinneys supermarket attached. Limited number of restaurants.

Malls not your thing and looking for something more traditional? Then take a visit to one of the many souk (markets). Souk, or suk, shopping can be very entertaining as well as profitable as bargaining is always expected. The variety of goods available is the winding alley-ways is bewildering. The souks are set in areas of what they sell, such as the textile souk, gold souk, spice souk and so on.

Gold Souk - Not a mall, but a historic market that has been a part of Dubai since the origin of Dubai itself. Located at the mouth of the creek, it dazzles people by selling gold in large quantities and with no security. A must visit for shoppers and sightseers.

Spice Souk - As above, not a mall, but a historic market . Located at the mouth of the creek, it is not far from the Gold Souk, but has sadly declined a bit in recent years as supermarkets take over the spice trade. A must visit for shoppers and sightseers. Lots of souvenirs are also available. Both the Spice Souk and the Gold Souq are a rather hot and sweaty experience with limited air-conditioning, so wear appropriately cool, loose clothing if visiting in mid summer. Individual shops are air conditioned.

For a very different shopping experience why not visit Karama. You will find an open air shopping area with lots of small shops, all with their goods spilling on to the pavements. This is great area to buy anything from “copy” designer watches, cloths handbags or just souvenirs.

Haggling is a must with the vendors and never, ever take the first price.