Guide to Dubai Markets

Dubai markets will make a perfect weekend outings

Whether you’re after vintage finds or new pieces from emerging designers, these markets make perfect weekend outings

Visitors to Dubai may be surprised to know that the city’s retail offerings extend well beyond the glitzy, larger-than-life malls. Dubai is experiencing a market boom, with a plethora of homegrown events that generate a sense of community and showcase local produce and wares. Here are the markets to lock in your calendar:

Ripe Market: Zabeel Park and Al Barsha Park

Yes, the premise of this market is largely around organic produce grown by local farmers, but it is well worth stopping by Ripe Market on Friday mornings at Zabeel Park, or Saturday evenings at Al Barsha Park, for the many local designer stalls, selling everything from one-of-a-kind costume jewellery, to handmade T-shirts, bags and prints.

Dubai Flea Market: Various locations across Dubai

Whoever says you can’t find second-hand goods in Dubai has clearly never visited the Dubai Flea Market. Held in various locations through the month including Zabeel Park and Ibn Battuta Mall, this market is ideal for seasoned market goers. There is a strict second-hand policy here, with stalls of furniture, textiles, ceramics, clothes, crafts and antiques. There is a lot to take in, but determined patience and strong bargaining skills are sure to mean you leave with some great treasures.

Market of Everything: The Archive, Safa Park

As the name suggests, the Market of Everything is where you’ll find second-hand goods, designer wares and all manner of bric-a-brac you could think of. Many stalls, great food and a healthy dose of live music combine for a great day out in Safa Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring along some second-hand goods of their own to sell or trade with local vendors.

Urban Market: Alserkal Avenue

Launching in December 2014, Urban Market is one of the newer kids on the block, but is a great event for lovers of markets and creativity. Browse the many stalls of handmade arts and crafts and fashion, before stopping by one of the many food trucks and settling in for some dinner and live music in Alserkal Avenue. As a bonus, many of the venue’s galleries are open later, so you can go take in some art while you are there.

Prime Market: Beach Park Plaza

If your idea of retail therapy involves high-end designer labels, then make a bee-line for Prime Market at Beach Park Plaza in Jumeirah. Held every second Saturday of the month, this market is strictly for lovers of luxury, with pre-loved designer handbags, shoes and other accessories. Dotted in between are stalls of emerging local designers, so it’s a great place to spot the next big name in local couture.