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Shopping in Dubai is always duty free, so it’s no wonder malls are popping up all over this city. Because of the heat, most shopping takes place indoors. Those seeking a more authentic Middle Eastern shopping experience should head to Deira, where you can shop in a number of traditional souks.
S*uce (pronounced Sauce) The folks behind S*uce are arguably this city’s coolest shop purveyors. With a superb selection of groundbreaking local and international fashion designers, this hip boutique is the perfect spot to pick up unique duds. Jumeirah; The Village Mall, Jumeirah Beach Rd.; 011-971-4-344-7270; www.shopatsauce.com
Harvey Nichols This is the largest Harvey Nichols branch outside the UK. The marble bedecked complex has a luminous selection of the world’s finest fashion labels, in addition to the Almaz restaurant by London’s famed chef Mourad ‘Momo’ Mazouz. Sheikh Zayed Road; Mall of the Emirates; 011-971-4-409-8888; www.harveynichols.com
Five Green This concept store/gallery plays host to cutting-edge art exhibits, innovative performances, and some of the city's most fashionable clothing lines. Come with a fat wallet and some time on your hands. Garden Home, Oud Metha Rd.; 011-971-4-336-4100; www.fivegreen.com
Mall of the Emirates This palatial 2.4-million-square-foot mall is Dubai’s largest and best shopping complex, complete with an indoor amusement park, ski resort, and hotel. Sheikh Zayed Road; Al Barsha; 011-971-4-409 9000; www.malloftheemirates.com
Traffic The first design gallery of its kind in the Middle East, Traffic sells handpicked objets d’art and furnishings from international designers and regional talent. They also host special events and lectures from regional artists and designers. Dubai; Saratoga Bldg.; 011-971-4-341-8494; www.viatraffic.org
Gold Souk Narrow alleyways lined with gold merchants stretch on for miles in Dubai’s traditional gold souk (market). Go here for jewelry – there isn’t a style or color that can’t be found here. Be prepared to bargain and never settle on the asking price. Deira; Gold Souk; www.dubaigoldsouk.com
