One of the oldest markets is the Gold Souk Dubai, where one can buy tax-free gold. Needless to say, Dubai has always been tagged as a shoppers’ paradise. The megapolis is home to famous brands and luxury designers. Hence, fashion and trend lovers unite here to buy their favorite brands’ perfumes, accessories, and jewelry. Yes, of course, the all-jazzy malls are definitely world-famous. But do you know that the age-old souks of Old Dubai are equally famous among the residents and tourists?
Souks in Dubai is not just an ordinary market; these are hidden gems. Therefore, you can expect to get the best-quality items at unbeatable prices. Out of all, one that you must visit is the Deira Gold Souk. It is the world’s largest gold market, featuring approximately 300 gold jewelry shops. Book Tours in Dubai brings you a compiled guide to explore the Gold Market in Dubai.
History of Gold Souk
Dubai’s Gold Souk is a famous gold market in the globe. It is renowned for selling a variety of gold jewelry, precious stones, traditional craftsmanship, etc. However, its significance runs back to the era when it helped Dubai rise in the field of global gold trading.
- Growth and expansion (1940s-1950s)- Dubai’s Gold Souk came into existence in the 1940s. This was the time when Dubai was in the initial phase of getting merchants from India and Iran.
- Furthermore, Deira Creek led to the organic growth of the market due to Dubai Creek, which supported the trade.
- Transformed into a famous gold hub (1960s-1980s)- Dubai Creek Port changed as the prime entry point for gold, which attracted merchants from various regions.
- 1968- Dubai’s Gold Souk became a dedicated market with various small shops operating.
- Besides, Dubai was the first choice for trading as the country had a tax-free trade policy, ideal for gold trading.
- Modern Era (2000s-present) As of today, the Gold Souk Dubai is the home to over 300 retail shops. In addition, you will also find stores of famous jewelry brands.
- Besides, the Dubai government is active and ensures proper quality checks on the gold items sold here. Furthermore, the jewelry items are hallmarked, and DCL regulates the activities.
Things to Do at Gold Souk
Your trip to Dubai won’t be complete without visiting the Deira Gold Souk. The market is worth visiting even if you don’t plan to buy gold jewelry. Deira’s Gold Souk boasts a jaw-dropping collection of priceless gold jewelry and items. Besides, with an option of over 300 shops and hundreds of retailers selling the latest design jewelry, you will literally get lost in the alleys.
There is a reason why the market even got listed in the Guinness Book of World Records (source). After all, the world’s heaviest ring of 64 kg with a stone embedding of 5.1 kg deserves the tag of ‘World Record.’ Furthermore, the best part is that even if it is named Gold Souk, you will find silver, diamond, and platinum jewelry here. In addition, the precious stone jewelry you get here includes rubies, sapphires, emeralds, etc. Hence, you will definitely eye something and even end up buying it as a gift for yourself or as a small souvenir.
There are other miscellaneous items available here. One can explore different types of watches, bracelets, rings, religious scriptures, and figurines. Alternatively, you can buy pure gold coins, gold biscuits, and bars, especially if you want to make an investment for a lifetime.
How to Reach Gold Souk?
By Metro– The closest metro station to the Gold Souk is the Mall of the Emirates. Just a 27 min walk and you will reach the market.
By Private Transfers– You can book optional private transfers from Book Tours in Dubai to reach the Gold Souk.
Best time to Visit
The right time to explore Dubai’s Gold Souk varies on factors like season, time of the day, and crowd levels.
- October to April– Winter and spring are the best seasons to explore the Deira Gold Souk. The weather stays cool with a pleasant breeze, which is perfect for exploring the market.
- Morning (9.30 am to 12 pm) is the best time as the crowd remains less, hassle-free price negotiation, and you can check out the fresh stocks.
- Evening (5 pm to 9.30 pm) is also a great time to visit due to the vibrant atmosphere and all the shops remain open.
Entry Fee
You require no entry fee to visit the Deira Gold Souk in Dubai. It is a market, which means visitors will enjoy free entry and exit.
Nearby Places to Visit
Deira or Old Dubai, is not just limited to the Gold Souk. There are other noteworthy nearby landmarks as well that you can visit. Hence, listed below are a few of them.
- Spice Souk – Another famous souk in Old Dubai is Spice Souk. You will find varities of spices, herbs, dried fruits, etc. If you are looking for authentic Arabian spices, then this is the place for you.
- Perfume Souk – The Perfume Souk is a specialized market that sells traditional Arabian perfumes, oud, and essential oils.
- Dubai Creek – A picturesque waterway to spend a couple of hours amidst its calmness and the pleasing old-world charm everywhere. Also, don’t forget to try the Dhow Cruise Creek activity here.
- Al Fahidi Historical District – It is a heritage site that features vintage-style wind-tower houses, art galleries, and museums.
Final Words
That’s pretty much about Dubai’s Gold Souk. Our comprehensive guide includes almost all the significant highlights of the market that every visitor would love. Hence, plan your visit with Book Tours in Dubai to explore such local markets in Dubai. Check out the market, bargain, and get some latest design jewelry items and souvenirs for you and your loved ones at the best price!
