Dubai has plenty of unique souvenirs that capture its vibrant culture. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re coming back, don’t leave without picking up something special. Here are the top Dubai souvenirs to buy for yourself or your friends.
Best Souvenirs to Buy in Dubai
1. Perfume, Oud, and Boukhour: A Fragrant Memory
Perfume is one of the best souvenirs to bring back from Dubai, especially oud.
Oud is derived from agarwood and is known for its rich, woody scent that lasts a long time. In Dubai, you can find various types of oud, ranging from affordable options to customized, high-end versions.
Boukhour, on the other hand, consists of scented wood chips or incense burned to create a rich, inviting fragrance in homes. This aromatic smoke is commonly used across the Middle East, where it plays a significant role in traditional hospitality practices. Boukhour often blends different oils, such as rose, sandalwood, and oud, making it an attractive and traditional gift choice.
To wear perfume the Arab way, apply it first, then use boukhour to scent yourself and your clothes. This combination will make you smell amazing and remind you of the wonderful scents you enjoyed while in Dubai.
You can find a wide selection of oud and boukhour products at shops in Dubai Mall or Arabian Oud.
Taif al Amarat perfume also offers signature fragrance that will remind you of your trip to Dubai.
2. Day to Day: Affordable Souvenirs
Visit Day to Day for budget-friendly souvenirs that won’t break the bank. This shop is perfect for small trinkets that help you remember your trip or make great gifts for friends and family.
Magnets: You can’t go wrong with fridge magnets! Day to Day offers a variety of designs, from the Burj Khalifa to camels, all at very low prices.
Pins: If you collect souvenirs or know someone who does, you’ll find cheap Dubai-themed pins that make great additions to any collection.
T-shirts: For something to wear, check out T-shirts with Dubai slogans and images, perfect for casual wear or souvenirs.
3. Gold and Jewelry
Dubai is famous for its gold. Many beautiful souvenir pieces of jewelry are available here. One of the top destinations is Dubai Gold Souk, where shops offer everything from tiny gold pendants to detailed bracelets. Many stores provide engraving services for a personal touch, making each piece unique.
4. Dates and Sweets
Dates are available in various varieties, such as Ajwa, Medjool, and Sukkari, each with a unique taste and texture. You can find them in local markets or stores like Bateel, which offers beautifully packaged gift boxes filled with nuts and chocolate-dipped dates.
Middle Eastern sweets like baklava and maamoul make great souvenirs. These treats are perfect for introducing your friends and family to the region’s flavors.
5. Luxurious carpets and textiles:
If you’re looking for a truly unique and high-quality souvenir, consider buying a Persian or Arabian carpet. These beautifully designed carpets are not only a symbol of luxury but also a piece of art to take home. You can find carpets in various styles and sizes at Dubai Textile Souk or specialized carpet shops throughout the city.
In addition to rugs, try pashminas and shawls. Made from high-quality silk or cashmere, they are practical and stylish, adding a touch of Dubai luxury to your wardrobe.
6. Souvenir Sand Bottles:
A particularly iconic souvenir from Dubai is a sand bottle filled with different layers of colored sand. These bottles are often handmade and depict stunning desert scenes, including camels, sunsets, and palm trees.
You can discover these in the souks or personalize one with your name or a unique message. The sand art conveys the vast and beautiful desert areas surrounding the city. This is a perfect way to commemorate your trip to Dubai.
7. Arabic Tea Set and coffee pots (Dallah):
If you want to take a small portion of the hospitality culture of Dubai with you, consider purchasing an Arabic tea set or a traditional coffee pot, both referred to as dallahs. These items are functional and decorative, representing Emirati hospitality’s core- they serve visitors tea and coffee.
To enhance your tea or coffee collection, consider adding some Arabic coffee or saffron tea, popular beverages for sipping in your new set.
Dubai has various options for souvenirs suitable for all. These items will not only recall your journey but also share the magic of Dubai with your friends and loved ones.
