Souks in Abu Dhabi

If you're looking for the authentic cultural experience while shopping in Abu Dhabi, the many souks of Abu Dhabi will give you that. The old souks have had renovations undergone and stock luxury good (Read More)s but many of them still hold on to their tradition and culture. Souks are still the place to go if you want some paraphernalia that is unique and affordable.

Here is the list of 5 Souks in Abu Dhabi

1. Iranian Souk

Iranian Souk

The Iranian Souk is situated right next to the dhow harbour. Since the souk is located right next to the dhow, you even watch the traditional dhows return from the sea. Being here will take you back to the time when traditional wooden dhows were unloaded at the shores and transported by donkeys to various sellers. It has many stalls huddled together selling original and authentic products from Iran and other countries in the region.

2. Carpet Souk

Carpet Souk

The Carpet Souk is the ideal place to shop for carpets when in Abu Dhabi. This place is literally flooded with carpets with almost 100 stores selling Yemeni mattresses, Persian rugs, afghani carpets, silk rugs, handwoven carpets, prayer rugs, wool carpets and other beautiful upholstery goods. While you might find hand made ones a little less on perfection, you can easily switch for the machine made ones. But, the hand made ones are high on craftsmanship and are generally expensive.

3. Souk Central Market

Souk Central Market

This mall is one of the favoured destinations by the locals and residents alike. Definitely check out the souk if you want to experience the traditional Arabic shopping. It is built on the place where the first souk of Abu Dhabi was set up. The stained window class, rich tapestries, wood lattice furnishings give the mall a very antique and elegant look. If you want a peaceful place to shop at, head over to the Souk Central Market. Here you will find traditional artefacts, spices, henna, jewellery, antiques, oils, Arabic perfumes, lamps, clothing accessories, sculptures, paintings, carpets, camel figurines and many local hand crafted products. Spanning three floors of authentic arabic shopping, the central market also has rooftop gardens and cafes. However, this remains mostly shaded and sheltered by the tall buildings around.

4. Souk Al Zafarana

Souk Al Zafarana

The Souk Al Zafarana is a place which reflects true and traditional Emirati culture. Hence it is also a nice place to shop for souvenirs. The place sells beautiful embroidered traditional arabic outfits and textiles, henna, spices, perfumes (oud), spices, incense, dallah (arabian coffee pots), arabian trinkets, traditional handicrafts, carpets, lamps, nuts and a variety of other things. Mubdia Village is a section staffed exclusively by women and only women shoppers are allowed in here. Bargaining is a sure thing here so try haggling as when you can.

Abu Dhabi Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

5. Al Mina Souk

Al Mina Souk

The Al Mina Souk is also one of the most popular souks in Abu Dhabi. It is located near the bridge for Saadiyat Island. It is basically a fish and vegetable souk but you will find a few stalls selling dates and flowers as well. When you visit the market in the morning, it looks so vibrant as all the sellers display their produce systematically on benches and stools. The Al Mina Fish Souk is said to be the oldest and largest fish market in the country where you will find every possible variety of fresh fish. You will get a glimpse of the good old Abu Dhabi here. The carpet souk is situated nearby, so can visit that too in one go.

These souks are the ultimate destinations for getting souvenirs for your loved ones. Apart from that, walking through the streets and alleyways, talking to shop owners and stall owners will let you learn about traditions and cultures of Abu Dhabi.

This post was published by Muhammed Salih

Share this post on social media

Top Hotels In Abu Dhabi

Related Collections

Experiences

Experiences

Abu Dhabi Desert Safari - Arabian Nights Come To Life!

Experiences

Experiences

Sunrise in Abu Dhabi - 4 Places to Catch the Magical Arabian Sunrise

Experiences

Experiences

5 Best Golf Courses in Abu Dhabi That Every Golfer MUST Visit

Experiences

Experiences

Horse Riding in Abu Dhabi - Your Guide to an Equestrian Adventure

Shopping

Shopping

Shopping in Abu Dhabi - What to Buy & 25 Best Places To Shop

Experiences

Experiences

6 Thrilling Rides at Ferrari World to Explore Your Adventurous Side

Backpacking

Backpacking

Fishing in Abu Dhabi - Highlights, Best Places etc

Shopping

Shopping

Malls in Abu Dhabi

Experiences

Experiences

Water Parks in Abu Dhabi

Experiences

Experiences

Theme Parks in Abu Dhabi

Experiences

Experiences

Churches in Abu Dhabi

Beaches & Islands

Beaches & Islands

Abu Dhabi Islands - Plan A Getaway to The Beautiful Islands in Abu Dhabi

Art & Culture

Art & Culture

Culture of Abu Dhabi

Nightlife

Nightlife

Nightlife in Abu Dhabi - 15 Best Nightclubs To Experience Abu Dhabi at Night

Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Vegetarian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi - Where To Eat The Best Veg Food

Transport

Transport

Airports In Abu Dhabi: The Five Main Airports In And Around The City

Wildlife & Nature

Wildlife & Nature

11 Parks in Abu Dhabi to Catch a Breath of Fresh Air!

Transport

Transport

Public Transport in Abu Dhabi - Getting Around This Bustling Emirate

Road Trips

Road Trips

Renting a Car in Abu Dhabi – The Go To Tourist Guide

Architecture

Architecture

Bridges in Abu Dhabi - 5 Stunning Bridges You Will Cross in Abu Dhabi

Travel Tips

Travel Tips

What to Wear in Abu Dhabi - The Prerequisites Before Packing Your Bags

Art & Culture

Art & Culture

21 Amazing Facts About Abu Dhabi That Makes It The Coolest Emirate

Travel Tips

Travel Tips

Top 11 Bars in Abu Dhabi - An Intrinsic Emirati Drinking Guide

Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Food in Abu Dhabi: The Best Emirati Delicacies to Cheer Up Your Taste Buds!

Religious

Religious

Mosques in Abu Dhabi

Sightseeing

Sightseeing

Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi

Beaches & Islands

Beaches & Islands

Best Beaches in Abu Dhabi

Sightseeing

Sightseeing

Zoos in Abu Dhabi

Art & Culture

Art & Culture

Museums in Abu Dhabi

Fairs & Festivals

Fairs & Festivals

Festivals in Abu Dhabi - Famous Feasts of UAE's Second Largest City

Comments on this post

Browse Package Collections

View Packages