Marketplaces in Abu Dhabi range from old markets that have kept the character of Abu Dhabi to newly developed markets with cutting-edge technology. With a variety of marketplaces bursting with unique items that will tempt the shopper in you, you do not want to limit your Abu Dhabi visit to only sightseeing and adventure sports. Carpets with exquisite designs, an incredible variety of dates, the finest Arab and Western gold jewellery, and the latest collections of international clothing brands—whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it at these markets.
Make the most of your evening in Abu Dhabi by visiting the lively souks Al Bawadi and Al Qaws, which are known for their low-cost souvenirs. Al Ain Souq is the finest option for a real Arab-style market experience if you want to go on a shopping binge and stuff your bag without burning a hole in your budget.
At Souk Al Zafarana, you may also walk through streets while the perfume of hundreds of spices tantalises your nostrils. Furthermore, the Gold Souk Abu Dhabi is, of course, the ideal option if you intend to purchase gold. If you would like to experience the Abu Dhabi city tour, select one of the best tour and travel agencies in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The Top 10 Best Street Markets in Abu Dhabi
1) Date Market in Abu Dhabi
Because dates are so important in Arab culture, there is an entire market in Abu Dhabi dedicated to the fruit. Locally known as Mina Dates Market, Abu Dhabi Dates Market is also gaining popularity among travellers looking to purchase this delectable and nutritious fruit at a fair price.
Dates of varying hues, textures, and flavours are available here. Locally grown date varietals like Khlas and Lulu are recommended as less expensive options since they can be purchased for as little as AED 20 per kg. Furthermore, dates imported from Palestine, Oman, and Saudi Arabia are accessible here, albeit most are a little pricey.
2) Abu Dhabi Gold Souk
If you are looking for valuable jewellery in the latest styles, Gold Souk Abu Dhabi is one of the most recommended shopping destinations in Abu Dhabi.
Gold Souk Abu Dhabi, located within Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, is a jewellery market with rows of businesses selling wonderful selections of gold jewels in traditional Arabic and classic Western styles.
From the largest jewellers in the Gulf, such as Damas and Rivoli, to some lesser-known yet superb jewellers, there are stores here.
As you enter the souk, the brilliance of the gold jewellery that demonstrates lavishness and outstanding craftsmanship will blind your eyes.
Whether you want to buy gold for investment purposes or for personal use, you will be spoiled for choice once you begin exploring the collections.
3) Al Zafarana Souk
Souk Al Zafarana is where the Old Souk of Al Ain found a new home; therefore, it is naturally an important marketplace in the neighborhood. Souk Al Zafarana is one of the best markets in Abu Dhabi for learning about Dubai culture due to the wide range of regional products offered.
That is undoubtedly why no culture vulture visiting Abu Dhabi ever overlooks this lively marketplace. This market has it all, from fruits and veggies to traditional clothing and gifts. If you plan on visiting this market, prepare for a sensory overload with the brilliant colours, dazzling items, and unique aromas that create a captivating ambience here. Take home some authentic Arab spices, incense to fill your home with Arabian fragrances, or authentic handicrafts to keep the memories of your days in Abu Dhabi alive.
4) Al Ain Souk
If you have some time to spare for cultural discovery, Al Ain Souq is highly recommended. This is one of the few marketplaces in Abu Dhabi that has managed to retain the authentic feel of a normal outdoor Arab market. Because daily necessities and food are sold here, Al Ain Souk is always crowded with inhabitants. However, there are a lot of foreigners here, soaking in the lovely ambiance of this market, which stands in stark contrast to the city’s air-conditioned, high-end retail malls. If you’re good at haggling, a trip to this market will provide you with an abundance of wonderfully crafted mementos. If you enjoy photography, you should bring your camera because this souk allows you to capture the spirit of the old Abu Dhabi.
5) Carpet Market
The Carpet Souk, one of the greatest Abu Dhabi markets, is a must-see in the city, whether you want to buy something or simply enjoy the sight of brilliant craftsmanship. This market, located on the busy Mina Road, is a famous tourist site. The market contains multiple businesses selling carpets from various African countries. Whether you want complex Persian patterns or an antique tribal item from Pakistan or Afghanistan, this market offers a wide range of options. If you are seeking for carpets, prayer rugs, or mattresses in Abu Dhabi, this is undoubtedly one of the best places to shop in Abu Dhabi.
6) Farmers’ Market in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Farmers’ Market, located in the city’s centre, is one of the greatest places to shop in Abu Dhabi for fresh food. A wide range of organic fruits and vegetables are offered here at moderate prices, making it a favourite destination for locals. However, the market is growing increasingly popular among tourists who want to get a closer look at life in Abu Dhabi, as well as those who don’t mind indulging their taste buds with an English breakfast. Aside from farm-fresh vegetables, this market offers a variety of dining alternatives, including delectable snacks and cool beverages.
7) The Central Market
erected on the site of the historic traditional souk, Abu Dhabi’s first significant trade and commercial hub. Abu Dhabi’s Central Park is one of Abu Dhabi’s busiest markets. Looking at the huge choice of regional and worldwide products shown here, every shopaholic is likely to rejoice and forget about budget constraints. Attar fragrances, antiques, branded clothing, and trendy accessories abound. Furthermore, with a variety of culinary outlets housed within the complex, this location is a pleasure not only for shoppers but also for gastronomes. The structure is attractively built and features an interesting fusion of modern and antique Arab architecture. However, much care has been taken to recreate the ambience and functionality of the old souk.
8) Souks Al Bawadi and Al Qaws
Souk Al Bawadi and Souk Al Qaws are two prominent Abu Dhabi markets in Al Ain, busy with a mix of locals and visitors. These outdoor marketplaces provide everything from regional merchandise to services. Souk Al Bawadi is a prominent goods market with the feel of a heritage market, well known for its almost 50 businesses selling traditional products and souvenirs at low prices. So, if you’re bored and your luggage has a lot of empty space, a trip to this market will help you fill it with the proper products. Souk Al Qaws, on the other side, is a service hub where you can find banks, travel agencies, money exchanges, and so on. These two markets offer a lively atmosphere as well as lovely architecture, making them an ideal location for photography.
9) A Market in Khalifa City
Khalifa City Market is one of those markets in Abu Dhabi that can be counted on to provide a memorable evening for you and your family. This market, located in the heart of Khalifa City A’s luxury residential sector, has a variety of restaurants, cafes, saloons, and supermarkets to meet all of your needs. The market’s tranquil atmosphere makes it a highly recommended option if you want to visit somewhere attractive without having to deal with a lot of people. Enjoy your dinner at one of the restaurants here, and then visit Al Raha Beach, which is nearby; Khalifa City A Market should be on your Abu Dhabi itinerary.
10) Women’s Handicraft Center
The Women’s Handicraft Center is attempting to change that perception. This government-run institution displays textile weaving, spinning, embroidery, basketry, and traditional silver-thread needlework, all of which are regional crafts. Buyers are sure to find amazing homemade presents and souvenirs here—authentic and historic products that can’t be bought anyplace else.
