Gold Souk is a must-visit place for everyone who visits Dubai. Even if you don’t intend to buy any jewellery, it is still worth spending a few hours here.
It’s a great experience of Dubai’s culture and its old world charm. Haggling is a must here as prices are not regulated.
What to Expect
Whether you’re in the market for eye-catching jewelry or simply curious to see what all the fuss is about, Gold Souk is an essential stop. With long lines of market stalls and stores, you’ll be treated to a kaleidoscope of jewelry designs crafted with varying carats of gold. The gold used here is scrupulously regulated by the government, so you can rest assured that what you’re purchasing is genuine.
When you visit the Gold Souk, make sure to shop around and compare prices. Most stores have two prices posted: the price for the gold based on weight and the negotiated price for craftsmanship. It’s also a good idea to check the international gold rate before your trip so you know how much to expect in terms of pricing.
Tip: Stick to the official shops and avoid shopping at street stalls. The latter often sell fake pieces and don’t fall under the same regulations as the stores in the Gold Souk.
The easiest way to get to the Gold Souk is by taking a taxi from the city center. If you’re traveling as part of a group, consider booking a guided tour that will include transportation to and from the souk. You can find many different tours on TripAdvisor. Also, remember to bring cash because the Gold Souk does not accept credit cards.
Tips for Shopping
You must remember that gold jewellery at the Souk isn’t as cheap as it might seem. You can expect to pay the actual retail price plus making charges. Therefore, it is a good idea to shop around. The more stores you visit, the higher the chances are of finding a great deal.
Another tip for shopping at the Gold Souk is to always check the purity of the gold you’re buying. This can be done by asking what carat the pieces are and having them weighed on a scale. It’s also a good idea to stick with the stores at the Gold Souk instead of buying from street vendors, as they don’t fall under the same quality monitoring that the shops do.
It’s also a good idea to visit the Gold Souk during the week as it tends to be less crowded. Additionally, the temperatures are cooler at night so you’ll be able to comfortably browse the stalls.
It’s also a good idea to come during the Dubai Shopping Festival as it’s the best time to buy the latest designs and jewellery pieces. The market is full of fresh merchandise and it’s an excellent way to get your hands on something that’s a little more modern than the traditional, Indian-style designs. It’s also a good idea because the prices are much cheaper at this time.
Parking
The Gold Souk is located in the Deira area of Dubai which is referred to as the heart of the city and one of the oldest areas where traders used to sell their goods. The new Gold Souk Extension is just across the street from the old souk, retaining its charm and cultural characteristics while offering shoppers and visitors an elevated experience with shaded walkways, superior facilities including workshops and co-working spaces, covered parking, restaurants, a waterfront promenade, and hotels.
Parking is a bit of an issue in this area because it gets very busy. However, there are several parking buildings nearby. In addition, you can always use Moovit for hassle free parking.
If you want to get the best prices for your jewellery, try to visit around 2.30 p.m onwards because that is when the shops start getting less crowded. You can then park easily for the rest of your time at the souk. The gap usually lasts for about 30 minutes after which it starts to get busier.
The nearest Metro stations to the Gold Souk are Al Ras and Gold Souq Metro Station which are both on the Green Line. If you prefer to take a bus, you can use service 8 which goes directly to the Gold Souk Bus Station. There are also a few taxis available that can be easily found near the market.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Dubai, a visit to the Gold Souk is an absolute must. Located in the city’s Deira district, this renowned tourist spot is home to more than 300 retailers offering travelers everything and anything related to gold and jewellery. Visitors can expect to be tempted by a wide variety of jewellery made from gold, diamonds and precious stones – but the best part is that all the products are sold by the gram.
The gold at this market is of the highest quality and the shops are very well organized, so shoppers do not have to worry about being fooled by fake goods or paying for a product that is lower in value than what they expected. The shops also have stands available that provide information on the current market value of gold and help buyers calculate their buying power.
The best time to visit the Gold Souk is from November to March when the weather is cooler. Visiting the Gold Souk is an experience in itself even if you don’t intend to buy anything, so it is worth taking the time to stroll around the area and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Afterwards, enjoy some local street food or hop on a bus to find one of the many dining options in the area ranging from upscale establishments to casual cafes.