About Dubai Gold Souk
Nestled in the heart of Old Dubai's Deira district, the Dubai Gold Souk (also spelled Gold Souq) is one of the world's most spectacular gold markets. With over 380 retailers packed into a labyrinth of covered walkways, it is a dazzling sensory experience — walls glittering with necklaces, towers of bangles, and display cases filled with everything from 24K investment bars to intricate bridal sets.
Established in the early 20th century, this traditional market has grown from a small trading post fueled by Dubai Creek's historic trade routes with India and Iran into a globally recognized luxury hub. Yet despite its modern reputation, the souk retains its old-world soul: narrow arcaded passages, the art of negotiation, and the smell of spices drifting over from the adjacent Spice Souk next door.
Why the Gold Souk is Trusted Globally
Government Regulated
All gold sold in the souk is regulated by the Dubai government. Weight prices are set daily based on the international market rate and are non-negotiable, preventing fraud.
Certified Purity
Every piece carries a hallmark stamp indicating exact karat purity. For high-value purchases, shops issue certificates of authenticity backed by government standards.
Tax-Free Pricing
Dubai levies no import duty on gold. Only jewelry (not bars/coins) carries 5% VAT, which tourists can reclaim at the airport — effectively making it cheaper than most countries.
380+ Retailers
The sheer competition among 380+ shops drives prices down and gives buyers enormous choice — from traditional Khaliji designs to modern international styles.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday – Thursday | 10:00 AM | 10:00 PM | Full operating hours |
| Friday | 4:00 PM | 10:00 PM | Late opening — Friday prayers |
Best Time of Day to Visit
Morning (10–12 PM)
Quietest time, great for browsing without crowds. Ideal for serious buyers who want undivided attention from shopkeepers.
Afternoon (2–4 PM)
Some smaller shops close for a midday break (1–4 PM). Best to avoid this window unless targeting the larger branded stores.
Evening (5–9 PM) ★ Best
Cooler temperatures, most shops open, full atmosphere. The souk truly comes alive in the evening — the golden glow is spectacular.
Gold Prices & Rates Per Gram (2026)
Gold prices in Dubai are set daily based on the international spot price and updated at the start of each trading day. As of February 2026, the approximate rates per gram are:
| Karat | Purity | Approx. Rate / Gram (AED) | VAT | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24K | 99.9% | ~AED 627 | VAT Exempt (bars/coins) | Investment |
| 22K | 91.6% | ~AED 580 | 5% VAT (refundable) | Traditional jewelry & bridal |
| 21K | 87.5% | ~AED 553 | 5% VAT (refundable) | Daily wear |
| 18K | 75% | ~AED 477 | 5% VAT (refundable) | Modern designs, diamonds |
Understanding the Two-Part Price
Gold Rate (Weight Price)
Not NegotiableSet by the international market daily. Calculated as: Weight (grams) × Daily Rate. Every legitimate shop charges the same weight rate — you cannot bargain on this.
Making Charges (Craftsmanship)
Negotiable!Covers labor, design, and artistry. Ranges from AED 10 to AED 500+ per gram depending on design complexity. This is where your bargaining power lies. Some shops in the Gold Centre offer zero making charges.
What to Buy at Dubai Gold Souk
Beyond gold, the souk offers an extraordinary range of jewelry, investment products, and precious stones. Here's your buying guide:
Gold Jewelry
- Arabic necklaces (heavy, intricate Khaliji styles)
- Bridal sets in 22K gold
- Bangles and kadas (Indian & Arabic styles)
- Hoop earrings and chandelier designs
- Customized name necklaces & engraved pieces
- Modern minimalist chains (18K)
Gold Bars & Coins (Investment)
The Gold Souk is an excellent place to buy physical gold for investment. Gold bars and coins in 24K are VAT-exempt and come with certification.
Available weights: 1g, 5g, 10g, 25g, 50g, 100g bars — and various sovereign coin denominations.
Precious Stones
- Diamonds (loose and set)
- Emeralds, Sapphires, Rubies
- Pearls (cultured and natural)
- Semi-precious gemstones
Always ask for a gemstone grading certificate for diamonds and high-value stones.
Other Luxury Items
- High-quality silver jewelry
- Platinum rings and bracelets
- Luxury watches
- Designer jewelry pieces
Bargaining Tips & Tricks
Bargaining is not just allowed at the Dubai Gold Souk — it's expected and respected. The key is knowing what you can and cannot negotiate:
The gold weight rate — set by the international market and regulated by the Dubai government. Every shop charges the same rate per gram.
The making charges — the craftsmanship fee. This is where you can save significantly, especially if buying multiple pieces or paying cash.
7 Expert Bargaining Strategies
- Check gold rates first: Look up the daily rate on Gulf News before entering any shop.
- Visit 3–5 shops: Compare making charges — they vary wildly between stores. The Gold Centre (near the main souk) has many zero-making-charge shops.
- Start low on making charges: Offer 15–20% below the quoted making charge. This is your negotiating room.
- Buy multiple items: Buying a set (necklace + earrings + bracelet) unlocks bulk discounts that aren't available for single pieces.
- Pay cash: Cash typically earns a 3–5% additional discount versus card payments.
- Show willingness to walk: Casually heading for the door often triggers a better final offer.
- Ask about zero-making-charge promotions: During Ramadan, DSF (Dubai Shopping Festival), and DSS (Dubai Summer Surprises), many shops waive making charges entirely.
Is Gold Cheaper in Dubai than India?
This is one of the most common questions from Indian visitors — and the answer is a clear yes, for several reasons:
Why Dubai Gold is Cheaper
- No import duty on gold in Dubai
- Only 5% VAT (reclaimed at airport by tourists)
- High competition among 380+ retailers
- Direct sourcing from global bullion markets
- Lower making charges (often negotiable to zero)
The Price Difference
Gold in Dubai is typically AED 3,000–3,500 cheaper per 10 grams compared to India (approximately ₹70,000–80,000 in savings per 10g).
Actual savings depend on the daily rate and Indian customs duty applicable on gold imports.
VAT Refund for Tourists
One of Dubai's best-kept shopping secrets — tourists can claim back the full 5% VAT paid on jewelry purchases at Dubai International Airport before departing the UAE.
Buy jewelry — ensure the shop provides a tax-free shopping tag/receipt
Validate your tag at the red kiosk before check-in at the airport
Visit Planet Tax Free counter after security for your cash/card refund
Receive 5% back minus a small processing fee (AED 4.80 per tag)
How to Get to Dubai Gold Souk
By Metro (Recommended)
Green Line to Al Ras or Gold Souq Station — both are a 5-minute walk to the souk entrance. This is the cheapest and most reliable option.
Gold Souq Station is the closest and named directly after the market.
By Taxi / RTA Cab
From Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa area): ~20 minutes, AED 35–45.
Ask for "Gold Souk, Deira" — all taxi drivers know it. Uber and Careem also service this area.
By Abra (Water Taxi) — Most Scenic
Take a traditional wooden Abra from the Bur Dubai abra station, crossing Dubai Creek to Deira — just AED 1 per person. A 5-minute journey with spectacular views.
Abras run continuously from ~7 AM to midnight.
By Bus
Routes 8, C9, and C28 stop near the Gold Souk. Check the RTA Journey Planner app for exact stops and timings.
Requires a Nol card for payment.
Best Shops at Dubai Gold Souk
With 380+ retailers, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are the most reputable names:
Damas
Regional ChainThe most recognized name in Middle East jewelry. Trusted for quality, wide variety of gold, diamond and platinum pieces in both traditional and modern designs. Excellent for first-time buyers.
Joyalukkas
Indian DesignsHugely popular with Indian visitors. Exceptional range of 22K traditional Indian designs, bridal sets, and modern styles. Reliable quality and good after-sales service.
Al Haramain Jewelry
24K SpecialistKnown for exquisite 24K gold pieces and exclusive one-of-a-kind designs. A top choice for investment-grade gold jewelry.
Kanz Jewels
World RecordHome to the Najmat Taiba — the world's heaviest gold ring (63 kg, Guinness World Record). Worth visiting even just to see this incredible piece.
Khazana Jewelry
22K SpecialistSpecializes in 22K gold with designs in various styles from modern to traditional. Popular with South Asian visitors seeking intricate craftsmanship.
Liali Jewelry
ContemporaryGreat collection of elegant, contemporary, and stylish jewelry in 18K. Popular among tourists who prefer modern minimalist designs over traditional Arabic styles.
Combine Your Visit with Old Dubai Sights
The Gold Souk's prime location in Deira puts you walking distance from some of Dubai's most authentic experiences:
Spice Souk
Right next to the Gold Souk — a fragrant covered market selling saffron, cardamom, frankincense, rose water, and traditional herbal remedies. A sensory feast and great for souvenir shopping.
Dubai Creek Abra Ride
Board a traditional wooden Abra at the Deira Old Souk Abra Station for AED 1. Cross the creek to Bur Dubai for stunning views of the city's contrasting old and new skylines.
Textile Souk (Bur Dubai)
Across the Creek — explore a colorful covered market for pashminas, silks, linen, and traditional fabrics at excellent prices. Perfect for picking up souvenirs and custom-made garments.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Dubai's most atmospheric heritage area — wind-tower houses, boutique art galleries, the Dubai Museum, and a cluster of excellent traditional cafes. A 5-minute Abra ride from the Gold Souk.
- Start at the Gold Souk (morning — quietest time for browsing)
- Walk 5 minutes to the Spice Souk
- Take an Abra (AED 1) across Dubai Creek to Bur Dubai
- Explore Textile Souk for gifts and fabrics
- Walk to Al Fahidi for heritage lanes, art, and a traditional lunch
Shopping Safety Tips
- Always check the hallmark stamp on every piece for purity (18K, 22K, 24K)
- Get a detailed receipt showing item weight, purity level, gold rate, making charges, and VAT separately
- Avoid shops without visible price tags or those that refuse to show the weight on a scale
- Use official scales — every legitimate shop weighs pieces in front of you. If they don't, walk away
- For investment purchases (bars/coins), request the certificate of authenticity — it should come standard
- Keep valuables secure in busy areas — use a cross-body bag and keep your wallet safely stored
- Visit multiple shops before committing — prices for making charges vary significantly
Visit Gold Souk with an Expert Guide
Include a guided Old Dubai walking tour in your itinerary — Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Creek Abra ride & Al Fahidi Heritage Area. Hotel pickup included.
Book Old Dubai Tour