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Best things to buy in Abu Dhabi

While Abu Dhabi is renowned for its rich cultural experiences and endless things to keep you busy, it also stands out as an exceptional shopping destination. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, with an eye for quality, the capital offers just the right mix of tradition, luxury and value. This is your go-to guide to the best things to buy in Abu Dhabi, from gold and electronics to gourmet treats and cultural must-haves. Wallets ready?

Why is Abu Dhabi a great shopping destination?

With tax-free prices and access to local, regional and global brands from Adidas to Reiss, shopping in Abu Dhabi is an experience that you don’t want to miss. Wondering what to buy in Abu Dhabi?  From statement pieces, your favourite brands or just the essentials, you’ll be spoilt for choice on brands, budgets and personal preferences.

Luxury finds

Looking for the best luxury items to buy in Abu Dhabi? Here are some that are worth adding to your list:

  • Gold: You’ll find a range of gold brands in Abu Dhabi offering a wide selection of designs, quality and budgets, be it 24-karat or 18-karat gold. Visit Madinat Zayed Gold Centre or reputable jewellery brands like Damas in malls.
  • Designer fashion: Need to get your hands on the latest styles from Louis Vuitton or Chanel? Major malls, like Yas Mall, offer high-end fashion brands for the shopaholic.
  • Perfume: The selection of perfumes in Abu Dhabi will knock you off your senses! You’ll find everything from Arabic oud to high-end international brands like Fenty, Dior and YSL.

Traditional & cultural items

What to buy & souvenirsThese traditional and cultural items are sure to make you reminisce about your time in Abu Dhabi - and are ideal as gifts and souvenirs too:

  • Oud & Arabic perfumes: Oud is deeply rooted in Emirati culture and comes in many forms—perfume oils, sprays, and even incense chips.
  • Abayas & modest fashion: Whether traditional or fashion-forward, abayas in Abu Dhabi are beautifully tailored and available in luxury or affordable styles.
  • Arabic coffee sets: A staple of Emirati hospitality, traditional dallah pots and ornate coffee cups make stylish additions to any home, along with Arabic coffee powder.

Gourmet delights

For foodies, Abu Dhabi’s supermarkets and food sections in local souks offer a mesmerising and delicious selection that are essential buys:

  • Premium dates: Known for its delicious local and regional dates, almond or pistachio-filled dates and chocolate-covered ones, in particular, are must-haves! Brands like Bateel offer beautifully packaged options, which also make for perfect souvenirs.
  • Camel milk chocolate: Creamy, rich, and locally produced—camel milk chocolate is a unique treat you can’t easily find elsewhere.
  • Spices: As you explore the alleyways of a souk, the whiff of spices from around the world will draw you into a colourful, aromatic store. Here you'll find spices from Asia to Africa, a testament to Abu Dhabi's historical role as a key trading hub. Grab a few spices to take home.

Gourmet delights

  • Electronics: Need to upgrade your phone, laptop or camera? Known for its competitive rates and tax-free shopping, Abu Dhabi’s stores offer every kind of electronic you’d imagine. Try to grab one during a sale for great deals and discounts. Just ensure international warranty coverage before you purchase.
  • Gaming consoles: From hand-held consoles to the latest PlayStation devices, get your favourite one along with a few games. There’s also a range of accessories for your electronics.

Where to shop in Abu Dhabi?

  • Malls & Souks: Luxury malls like The Galleria, Yas Mall, and Marina Mall are home to top-tier brands, vast selections, and frequent promotions. Souks, such as Souk Al Bawadi or Souk Qaryat Al Beri, are ideal for browsing traditional goods, handcrafted items, and niche finds.
  • Abu Dhabi airport duty-free: Looking for last-minute grabs, a souvenir, or wondering what to buy in Abu Dhabi duty-free? Well, anything you want! It's well-stocked with perfumes, electronics, chocolates, and premium skincare at excellent prices. Look for deals and discounts to make the most of your buck.

Tips for shoppers in Abu Dhabi

  • Look out for sales. In Abu Dhabi, these are a shopper's dream - especially during Abu Dhabi’s winter and summer season or Ramadan and Eid sales, which offer major discounts and deals.
  • As a tourist, you can claim a 5% refund at certain stores and designated counters at the airport.
  • When buying gold, perfumes or electronics, ask for certificates of authenticity and buy from trusted vendors only.

Read these before you go

Must-visit popular malls

Your souvenir list

Shop on your layover

Essential info

Before you fly

Getting a visa
What to pack
Travelling to Abu Dhabi
Back

FAQ's

Arabic coffee, carpets, spices, gold, dates, electronics and the latest fashion items are some of the most popular things to buy in Abu Dhabi.

Some souvenirs and traditional items like incense, oud and dates are some of the affordable items to buy in Abu Dhabi. Visit a local souq for good deals.

While Dubai and Abu Dhabi have certain similarities with what they have on offer for shoppers, usually find that malls in Abu Dhabi have a more relaxed ambience.