Gold Souk
Being there
Not a mall, but a historic market that has been a part of Dubai since the origin of Dubai itself. Located at the mouth of the creek, it dazzles people by selling gold in large quantities and with little visible security. A must visit for shoppers and sightseers. Most of the gold is 22ct quality and quite expensive - although even here the shopkeepers are prepared to bargain - and the craftsmanship can be remarkably detailed. The gold items are sold by weight with a "making charge" added on top to cover the workmanship. It pays therefore, to go shopping armed with the current gold price and a knowledge of the making charges in order to hone the bargaining process. Many outlets are part of chains that also have branches in malls, so are generally reliable.
The story
Dubai Gold Souk or Gold Souk (Arabic: سوق الذهب), is a traditional market (or souk) in Dubai, UAE. The souk is located in Dubai's commercial business district in Deira, in the locality of Al Ras. The souk consists of over 380 retailers, most of whom are jewelry traders. As of 2020, some of the shops are four decades old, while others are new. The market mainly deals in the sale of gold, platinum, and silver jewelry as well as bullion; loose diamonds and color stones are also sold.
Dubai Gold Souk is bordered to the north by the Dubai Fish and Vegetable Market and the Deira Corniche near Baniyas Square at Sikkat al-Khali Street which is in close proximity to the Deira Bus Stand. On the other side of the Dubai Creek lies Dubai Textile Souk.
As of September 2024, the Souk was soon to be renovated. The Dubai Municipality plans to make Dubai Gold Souk an upbeat tourist destination including the expansion of the latest Dubai Gold District.