Abatera Real Estate

One of the world’s leading cities in innovation and creativity, Dubai is increasingly becoming one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the globe. From traditional to cosmopolitan, Dubai has something for everyone, whether visitors are searching for a cultural experience or are purely indulging in the lavish lifestyle Dubai has to offer. Known to many as the nerve centre of the Gulf, Dubai remains unchallenged in its role as regional entrepot. Renowned for nurturing creativity, Dubai is home to unprecedented imagination and originality, and one look at the Dubai skyline is substantial proof that Dubai is on track to being in a league of its own.

One of the things that make Dubai a great place to go shopping is the fact that it is a duty-free port that low or mostly no duties or tariffs imposed on foreign products. For the bargain hunter it is a field teeming with game so thick that even taking aim is superfluous.

It does not matter how big the brand name or the nature of the products it has to offer. If it can be sold then it will on display somewhere among the numerous shopping centers in Dubai. What is more it will typically be cheaper in Dubai than in the country of its origin.

While the opening time for all shopping centers in Dubai can be different, it usually happens that they will be open from 8:00am to 1:00pm, take a 3-hour break then reopen at 4:00pm and lure shoppers until 9:00pm.

Though most shops are open on Friday, they will close for prayers between 11:30am and 1:30pm.
Some of the major shopping centers in Dubai are located along Al Faheidi Road, Al Rigga Road, Al Karama, Al Satwa's, Al Dhiyafah Road, and Beniyas Square.

It is rather easy to identify these shopping centers because the modernly constructed malls are spread throughout the city and contrast sharply with the traditional souqs (open air markets). Bargaining is expected in the souqs and even in the modernized shops in the malls it is not a breach of manners to ask for the "best price" for any product.

Some popular shopping centers in Dubai are listed below.

The Dubai Mall

Is Dubai's Largest Mall, which was opened in November 2008. It has over 900 shops of brand names from all over the world. It is currently the largest mall in the world. Contains an indoor ice rink and indoor aquarium. It is right next door to the Burj Khalifah, the world's tallest building, and the visitors' entrance to the Burj Khalifah is located at the lower ground floor of the Mall.

Mercato

Mercato, which is Italian for Market, is the only Renaissance-themed shopping mall in the Middle East. It captures Italian, French and Spanish flavors and artistic characteristics playing host to regular fairs and festivals from each country. Mercato provides a unique shopping experience, the best in international entertainment and popular brand names like Virgin Megastore, Top Shop, Mango and Hugo Boss; Mercato is simply The Good Life. Also, Mercato houses a big Spinneys Supermarket, a 7 screen Grand Cinema, a Starbucks, and mouth watering restaurants such as Bella Donna who have a balcony overlooking the sea that cannot be missed.

Town Center Jumeirah

Shopping for an exclusive gift, unique fashion items, beauty and skin care products? Then Town Centre Jumeirah is Just For You. Offering a stress-free shopping environment with a bright, open, and spacious atmosphere, Town Centre Jumeirah is a place to shop, relax and casually dine at a wide selection of eateries like Sumo Sushi, Cafe Ceramique, La Cafette by Carpe Diem and Simply Healthy. Also, Town Centre Jumeirah houses an extensive range of ladies beauty outlets like the Nail Station, Paris Gallery, Kaya Skin Care Clinic, Wax Lounge and SOS Salon.

Mall of the Emirates

It was largest shopping mall outside of North America, until the Dubai Mall opened in 2008. 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. It's attached to a Kempinski hotel, which has restaurants licensed to serve alcohol that are accessible from the mall. Very large Carrefour hypermarket attached, next to the Kempinski Hotel. Arabian/Middle Eastern souvenir shops upstairs.

Ibn Battuta Mall

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 (including three Starbucks), and a multiplex cinema including an Imax. No restaurants serve alcohol. Also has extensive, permanent exhibition of Islamic science, invention and astronomy. Attached (access via outside) is one of Dubai's few second-hand bookshops, House of Prose. Has a Geant supermarket attached.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Includes 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.

Burjuman Centre

Recently opened after expansion, focus is on premium brand stores and luxury boutiques, but high street stores are also available. No restaurants serve alcohol. Walking distance to the Consulate District.

Deira City Centre

This is by far the most popular mall in Dubai and a visit to Dubai is not complete without a visit. Debenhams, Virgin Megastore, Zara and other international high street brands. A multiplex cinema, and many restaurants and cafes. Also has a large "Arabian Treasures" souvenir and traditional textiles area. A new extension includes many more high-end boutiques and upmarket mall restaurants. A big Carrefour hypermarket sell just about everything and is nearly always very busy. There is a Sofitel hotel at one end of the centre, where there are bars and restaurants serving alcohol.

Wafi Mall

Includes Marks & Spencer, Goodies. Focus is almost entirely on luxury brands, jewellery and expensive boutiques. Many upmarket 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.

Emirates Towers Boulevard

Part of the Emirates Tower Hotel complex. The shops here match the hotel, very high class, plus a Starbucks. Lipton cafe has free wifi. Restaurants and bars all serve alcohol. Quite a popular nightlife spot, with bars and nightclubs and it is considered the most expensive mall in Dubai.

Gold & Diamond Park

Sells gold and diamond products. Has none of the character of the more historic gold souq, but is air-conditioned throughout, and easier to reach and park at than the historic souq (which is in the depths of downtown Deira). Can be better value, as it is less "touristy".

Festival City

Has Dubai's only Ikea, since it relocated from City Centre, and a huge Plug-Ins electronic store. Also an ACE Hardware and a amazing mall which has 550 shops.

Dubai Marina Mall

Located on Sheikh Zayed Rd, a mall with Books and Stationery (Borders), mobile telephony (du), photography (Nikon), cards (Hallmark), children toys, nutrition, pharmacy (Boots), supermarket (Waitrose), luxury watches, clothing, Starbucks, Dubai souvenirs, etc.