One of the great things about shopping in Abu Dhabi is that many of the shops offer so much more than the goods they sell - they also offer a unique Arabian experience.
Made from the resin of the agarwood tree, oud was historically a valuable commodity and today is still a sought after luxury item. Various types of oud have different aromas, but all have a strong, deep scent when burned. You can purchase oud as blocks or chips, along with a special burner. Oud oil, however is the result of a complex extraction process, and is popular with Emiratis who use it as a distinctive, long lasting perfume.
The Emirati-owned Yas Perfumes specialises in oud, oud oils and dukhoons, all of which are traditional regional scents used as perfume and incense, with a selection of French blended perfumes as well. Once you have selected a fragrance, browse through the incredible selection of ornate perfume bottles to store it in. There are numerous branches of Yas Perfumes in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, including Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall, Emirates Palace and another in Al Ain Mall.
A private atelier, founded in 2004 in Abu Dhabi, Arjmst
(+971 2 644 1575; +971 55 471 0080) showcases the work of the first
Emirati designer Azza Al Qubaisi. Her work combines the beauty of
nature, deep rooted tradition and the awareness of present and future
issues in her fabulous collections and sculptures. She also draws
attention to many subjects, from the history of pearl diving
(represented in Angel Tears collection), to present environmental
issues represented in the Sustainability collection. Skillful
combinations of diamond, gold, silver and other materials give each
piece of art its identity and character. Find both exclusive one-off
pieces and affordable souvenirs to remember your Abu Dhabi.
The date palm has been a symbol of life and hospitality in the region for centuries, and Bateel Dates
has long been one of the most respected names in the date trade.
Bateel sells every kind of date imaginable, in every form - from the
hard, unripened balah date to the soft, fully ripe tamr. Bateel outlets
are like luxurious delicatessens; not only can you buy a wide range of
dates, but they also sell some fascinating date products such as
juice, Turkish delight, cakes, balsamic vinegar and syrup, all of which
make excellent souvenirs. Find branches of Bateel at the Souk at Qaryat Al Beri, Khalidiyah Mall and Abu Dhabi Mall.