Language 
No results found
What to buy in Dubai: Dubai souvenirs and shopping
Discover what to buy in Dubai, from camel milk chocolate to Arabic lanterns, oud perfume, Arabic attars, carpets, and dates for every budget.
You’ve spent some time admiring skyscrapers, sand-surfing in the desert, and touring Dubai’s world-famous malls. Before your flight home, treat yourself to a few authentic Dubai souvenirs for your home or loved ones.
From luxurious Dubai chocolate with gold topping to fragrant spices from the souk, we’ve put together a guide on what to buy in Dubai and the coolest Dubai souvenirs. Sort out your internet needs in Dubai with Holafly’s unlimited data travel eSIM.
Peace of mind before you fly
Set up your Holafly eSIM before travel and get unlimited data on arrival.
Budget Dubai souvenirs: Under $20 USD
If you’re on a budget, don’t worry. Dubai doesn’t always have to be pure luxury. You can settle for authentic Dubai keepsakes even if your suitcase is full or your credit card needs a break after visiting the Burj Khalifa.
- Camel milk chocolate: Smooth and slightly nutty — this chocolate is not only a delicious souvenir but also a true one-of-a-kind. At brands like Al Nassma, you can get a small pack for 20–40 AED (about $5–10).
- Arabic calligraphy bookmarks: One of the most affordable yet meaningful Dubai souvenirs you can bring home is an Arabic calligraphy bookmark. Costing only 10–20 AED, these slim pieces feature elegant calligraphy, geometric patterns or motifs inspired by Arabian culture. Many are handcrafted, finished with tassels or embossed gold details, giving them a surprisingly premium feel despite their low price.
- Incense holders: These make amazing budget souvenirs and gifts as prices start from AED 15 (~$5+ USD). Containing frankincense or myrrh, these are unique and rich fragrances often used in celebrations and religious ceremonies.
- Arabic lanterns: These are common decor items in Emirati homes and offer a beautiful touch to any area. If you have extra wiggle room in your suitcase and can transport these items safely, these make a wonderful gift, and similar souvenirs are also on our what to buy in Istanbul list. Prices start from AED 30 ($8+ USD), and you can find these at the F-Zone at the Dragon mart, Homes R Us, and Karama Souk.
- Dubai spices: Purchase local spices at the Spice Souk and local supermarkets to transform bland dishes into mouth-watering ones. These can be super affordable Dubai souvenirs and gifts for anyone who loves cooking, with prices from AED 10-25 ($2-6 USD)
Middle-ranged Dubai souvenirs: $20-50 USD
If you’re wondering what to buy in Dubai and have a little more money to spend, the following Dubai souvenirs are a bit more special without breaking the bank.
- Premium dates: Dubai’s premium dates in elegant wooden boxes or gilded packages are in a class of their own. For 80–150 AED (about $20-40+ USD), you can get hand-selected Medjool or Ajwa dates, sometimes filled with nuts, orange peel or even chocolate.
- Handmade soaps: An oriental scented journey. In Dubai’s souks and boutiques, you’ll find beautiful handmade soaps with aromas like rose water, oud or saffron. These luxury soaps, often enriched with essential oils, cost around 75–150 AED (about $20–40+ USD). They come in artful packaging and make your bathroom feel like an Arabian wellness oasis.
- Arabic attars: These are perfume oils prepared from plant sources, known for their strong aromatic fragrances. You can also create a custom scent by mixing and blending different scents with the help of local vendors. Prices for these start at AED 90 ($20+ USD), and you can find them in Perfume Souk in Deira and malls.
- Arabic shoes: Men’s shoes include thread work, while women’s shoes are designed with beads and baubles. Most options are perfect to pair with Western, Eastern, and even fusion wear. Choose a unique design to take home for yourself or anyone who’d love an Arabian touch to their outfit. Prices range from AED 50-100 (~$13-27 USD).
Luxury Dubai souvenirs: $50+ USD
If you want to take home a truly special piece of Dubai and are willing to splurge a little, the following luxury souvenirs are guaranteed to remain memorable.
- Dubai chocolate with gold leaf: While you can find Dubai chocolate dupes on every shelf in every store, this Dubai chocolate isn’t your ordinary standard version. Compared to the original Dubai version, what you get for $2.99 is like riding a bicycle versus a Ferrari. For 200–400 AED (about $50–100+ USD), you can get gift boxes from luxury chocolatiers such as Mirzam or Bateel.
- Oud perfume: These intense, woody-warm perfumes are the signature fragrances of the Arab world. Real oud oil is crafted from the most precious raw materials in perfumery. For about 250 AED (around ~$60 USD), you can get small bottles of this “liquid gold of perfumery.”
- Bakhoor: There’s a distinct aroma found in Dubai’s streets. If you wish to bottle this up and take it home with you as a Dubai souvenir, purchase some Bakhoor. These are agar wood chips burnt to produce a pleasant and rich aroma and are the Middle Eastern alternative to room fresheners and candles. If you’re looking for what to buy in Dubai, this is a great option. Prices range from AED 100-500+ (~$20-100+ USD) and can be found in Perfume Souk in Deira and Spice Souk.
- Handwoven mini rug: A small, hand-crafted Persian or Arabian rug is a work of art for eternity. For 300+ AED (from about ~$75 USD), you can find quality pieces in compact dimensions. In the carpet souk or in malls, you’ll find different patterns and materials.
- Gold jewellery: Dubai’s legendary Gold Souk is a must for every visitor. For 250+ AED (from about ~$60 USD), you can already find delicate gold pieces with Arabic patterns or calligraphy. Prices are based on weight and the daily gold rate. However, one advantage is that in Dubai, gold is often cheaper than in the USA, and you can negotiate the price. A valuable souvenir that not only looks beautiful, but can also be an investment.
How to haggle in Dubai for beginners
In Dubai, the rule is: if you don’t haggle, you pay too much! Especially in the Gold Souk and in traditional markets, you can easily knock 20–30 % off the starting price.
Start with offering half of the listed price, act a little shocked, and take a few steps away. The vendor will likely call you back. Practice your “that’s my final offer” look in front of the mirror, and don’t forget: a smile and a few Arabic words open many doors.
Haggling is part of the cultural experience, so don’t be afraid to play along! For planning every part of your trip, explore our complete Dubai travel guide.
Beware of persistent perfume sellers ⚠️
In the souks and shopping districts of Dubai, sooner or later, you’ll be hounded by enthusiastic perfume sellers. With shouts like “Special price, my friend!” and free fragrance samples, they’ll try to lure you into their shops.
What starts as a free sample can quickly turn into a persistent sales pitch. The offered fragrances are often imitators of well-known brands.
Our tip: give a friendly but firm “La shukran” (No thank you) and walk on. Or treat yourself to a real oud perfume from a reputable seller.
Legend of the real Dubai chocolate🍫
With an abundance of Dubai chocolate dupes, one does become obsessed with finding the archetype. Did you know that FIX Dessert Chocolatier was the creator of the original Dubai chocolate bar?
This chocolatier is single-handedly responsible for the universal Dubai chocolate craze, and the good news is that you can still get to savor the original version. The only way to get your hands on the original Dubai chocolate is through Careem, and ordering at 2 PM and 5 PM. You can also purchase FIX Dessert Chocolatier’s Dubai chocolate at Dubai Airport Terminal 3. For more information and updates, follow FIX Dessert Chocolatier’s Instagram account.
The best places to shop for Dubai souvenirs
Dubai is famous for being a shopper’s paradise. That said, there are a couple of places where you can find the best deals, unique souvenirs, and connect with the rich artistic heritage of the region. Here’s where to find your favourite souvenirs:
- Spice Souk: A paradise for authentic spice blends and sets.
- Gold Souk: Here you can find the best jewellery, often at more affordable prices than back home. Don’t forget to haggle for the best prices.
- Souk Madinat: A more modern souk with traditional flair offering tea glasses, lanterns and camel figurines in a lovely atmosphere. Great for first-time buyers!
- Dubai Mall: For high-end gold-leaf chocolate, premium dates and designer products — this world’s largest mall has it all.
- Karama Market: The “insider tip” for bargain hunters. Here you’ll find affordable souvenirs of all kinds, ideal if you want to shop without spending too much.
Top tip: If you’re not sure how to dress in souks, here’s a guide on how to dress in Dubai.
What to declare at US customs after shopping in Dubai
When flying home to the States after shopping in Dubai, it’s crucial to know what you must declare at US customs to avoid delays or penalties.
As a traveler, you can bring back up to $800 USD worth of goods duty-free into the US. If you go past this amount, you must declare the full value. You’ll need to declare any expensive items such as gold jewellery, luxury watches, designer bags, or electronics purchased in Dubai.
Regarding food, most fresh fruits, vegetables, meat products and dairy items are not allowed into the US. Packaged items (such as snacks, dates, spices, and chocolates) are typically fine, but they must be declared on your customs form.
Top tip: Keep receipts in your carry-on bag to ensure the process is smooth and stress-free if the US Customs and Border Protection officers ask any questions.
Stay connected during your Dubai shopping
When thinking about what to buy in Dubai, one non-negotiable aspect is staying connected during your shopping spree. With Holafly’s eSIM for Dubai, you can get fast, reliable, and unlimited data from the moment you land, as opposed to opting for a local Dubai SIM card.
Choose an eSIM plan based on your trip’s dates, download the Holafly app, and set up your eSIM profile. The entire process takes between five and ten minutes, and once it’s done, you’ll have instant access to local networks in Dubai. No paperwork, roaming fees, or stress, and all you need is an eSIM-compatible phone.
Having unlimited mobile internet in Dubai is the easiest way to navigate souks, compare prices, find the best places to shop and stay in touch with family back home.
Match your Dubai eSIM to your vacation
Choose a plan lasting between 1 and 90 days so you never pay for days or data you don't use.
Disclaimer: The data in this article is accurate as of December 10, 2025, and is subject to change.
Plans that may interest you
Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!
