Dubai is indeed a dream destination for shopping. Giant modern shopping malls offer everything, from electronic devices to handmade carpets. And you will see traditional Arab suites. This is an attractive combination of old and new. The mixture of eastern and western fashion, in the heart of the Middle East. And you may see and hear loud salesman in the street. It is specific and different from the rest of the world. Shopping functions under some rules. Before coming to Dubai, you should follow these tips:
Select your travel time with care
If possible, make sure to avoid the weekend (which applies here on Friday and Saturday). Locals and citizens of neighbor Middle East countries come to the market. Thus, shopping malls are overcrowded. Dubai hosts two major shopping festivals, offering great discounts. There are many entertainment activities. The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) begins in the first week of January and lasts for a month. Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) begins in the first week of August and lasts until mid – September.
Pay attention to religious rules
The United Arab Emirates is an Islamic country. Thus Muslim holidays can affect the working hours of sales facilities. Friday serves for prayer and rest, and many smaller shops do not work on Fridays. In the course of Ramadan, Muslims do not drink and eat during the day. So neither you will be able to eat and drink in public places. Restaurants and cafes in shopping malls are open only in the evening. At the end of the Ramadan for two long weekends, most shops offer special discounts.
Dressing
The local population is very tolerant of different attitudes and beliefs. But while you are in this country, you must respect their cultural and religious rules. This means modest eating in public places (including shopping malls and restaurants). Cover your shoulders and knees if you are women. Do not wear shorts if you are a man. Muslims do not like spills of tenderness. Drunkenness or rudeness in public places is not tolerated.
You can find many fashion styles in shopping malls. From big-name luxury brands to sports and street lines.
Pricing
Although you are in the Middle East, in the country of the salesman, there is no pricing in shopping malls. Point. Outside the discount season, prices may be quite high for European standards. In small private shops, they expect to bargain. You should negotiate cheaper prices. Always start at a higher price, it is a strategy. It might be a real challenge. And entertainment. You learn another “skill”.
Orientation
Although Dubai is not so big, it is not made for pedestrians. The shopping centers spreading all over the city. In such a structure you cannot walk between them. So, take a cab. Taxi is easily accessible in Dubai. There is also a subway with stations in the immediate vicinity of several major shopping centers. (Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, BurJuman and Deira City Center). By the end of the year, tram lines will be opened. The idea is to link Dubai marina (the Marina Mall, The Beach and other colorful shopping destinations) with the Burj Al Arab Hotel and the Mall of Emirates. Come to Dubai for relaxing and fun!
