Three souks To Try

the Central Market souk at World trade Center

After a fire in 2003 gutted the old, traditional (and somewhat shabby) souk in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the Arabesque- styled World Trade Center Souk was built in its place. While you can still pick up loose spices, handembroidered shawls and Oriental furniture, this shopping centre feels more like a high-end mall than souk to us. Great for tourists or when you need posh traditional gifts to take back home.

World Trade Center Mall, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thur and Fri 10am to 11pm. Tel: (02) 8107814. Taxi: World Trade Center Mall. wtcad.ae

Gold souk, Madinat Zayed Mall

Even if you’re not buying gold, a visit to this mall is a must. Shops here are filled with elaborate and bold Arabic and South Asianinspired designs, so don’t expect subtle or demure. That being said, the gold on offer is remarkable. Shoppers can even trade in their old, worn jewellery and get it melted down and remade into something new. Expect to haggle and come prepared with knowledge of the current market rates.

Madinat Zayed Mall, Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Thur 9am to 10.30pm, Fri 4pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6333311. Taxi: Madinat Zayed Mall. madinatzayed-mall.com

the souk at Qaryat al Beri

While the waterfront setting and five-star hotels surrounding this souk make for expensive shopping, the location is certainly impressive and ideal for taking guests. Using a mixture of Venetian and Arabic architecture, the space sells perfumes and oud, regionally inspired artwork and carpets. While you’re there, be sure to catch a ride on the abra water taxis or dine al fresco and soak up views of the Grand Mosque.

The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri, Bain Al Jessrain, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Thur 10am to 10pm, Fri 3pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 5581670. Taxi: The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri. facebook.com/ qaryatalberi