Make your way along the narrow alleyways of the Gold Souk to be dazzled by the endless quantities of gold, platinum and diamonds that fill the shop windows. You can be sure that all of the gold is at least 18 carat, with most between 21 and 24 carat. Apart from stunning precious metal jewellery, you’ll also find ingots for investment, along with all varieties of precious stones and pearls.
If you are planning to buy gold, make sure you check the daily papers for the latest world prices, as it is sold strictly by weight. The prices of individual pieces of jewellery are not normally displayed, so once you know the current rate for gold, make sure you flex your bargaining muscles to haggle for the best deal. You can usually get an additional discount on the agreed price if you pay cash.
There are plenty of opportunities to get a real bargain, as the Gold Souk is known to charge some of the lowest gold prices in the world. This attracts visitors from all over the world looking for exquisite jewellery, investment opportunities or even to trade in old gold for new.
Should you not be tempted to part with any money, the Gould Souk is still a beautiful place to visit in its own right. Go there in the evening when the temperature is cooler, and you’ll find that the atmosphere is particularly lively. Once the street and shop lights are turned on, this expanse of gold and precious gems almost seems to glow.
You’ll find the Gold Souk in Deira, the commercial district. Avoid travelling by car as nearby parking spaces are almost impossible to find. Take a taxi, bus or the metro, or if you are coming from Bur Dubai journey across Dubai Creek in a traditional abra water taxi.
The Gold Souk is open every day. Most jewellery shops open at 10 am and close at around 10 pm, but do note that they are also shut between 1 pm and 4 pm. On Fridays they open from 4 pm.
