Unique Souvenirs From Dubai (Updated List)
It’s no secret that Dubai is among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Apart from its renowned hotels, it comes with spectacular cities, vibrant cultures, huge modern infrastructure, and a turbulent history. We learned this first-hand during our visit, but our best experience was shopping for souvenirs.
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On the way back home, we had an abundance of options regarding what to bring with us. The best part is you can find these souvenirs in places such as the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, and traditional markets. We have summarized the best ten in no order to ease your work when you visit this magical land and want to take souvenirs with you.
- Burj Khalifa
This record-breaking seven-star hotel is breathtaking, and you can take it as a souvenir in miniature form. You can find the miniature towers of this hotel in various outlets. In addition, there are other Burj Khalifa souvenirs, such as keychains, mugs, and shirts. You can buy and take these to your loved ones as gifts or display them in your home.
These souvenirs are the best way to remember this oasis of magnificence. However, note that the price of this merchandise can be high if you buy it from inside the tower. You should buy it from vendors in other places at a pocket-friendly price.
- Handmade Persian Rugs
Dubai has a long history of interacting with Persians, and it’s evident in the handmade rugs that are available in souvenir stores. You can find these rugs in different sizes and color combinations. These rugs are best for oriental antique interior décor. With the varying sizes, you can buy one to use in your house or gift it to a family member or friend.
These rugs are of different types and are designed with mythology which you should know for a better understanding of their history. There are the Qashqai rugs inspired by nomads, which are the most famous due to their unique patterns and vivid colors. The hexagons in their center, surrounded by animals and plants, are distinctive features.
The Tabriz comes in beautiful designs of hunting patterns, Persian gardens, and arabesques. The other types include Qom, Kashan, Isfahan, and Kerman rugs, each with distinctive patterns and rich history that the vendors can elaborate on if you ask.
- Ceramic Products
These gorgeous ceramic products are must-haves. You will find them in most souvenir shops in Dubai. Originating from Turkey and Iran, the bowls, coasters, and plates are artistically painted with elaborate and unique designs. You can use these bowls as decorations or to aesthetically store fragrance, soap, and aromatic oils.
The design of these ceramic products will blind you to the cost. However, fret not because it’s worth it. They are durable, and you are assured of having memories long after you have left Dubai.
- Arab Slippers and Sandals
This footwear comes in different colors and sizes, making another perfect souvenir from this Arabian Peninsula. The slippers are traditionally curly-toed, designed for men, and the flat-tipped ones are made for women. You can find unique ones with threadwork and beads.
There are also leather sandals locally known as “madas sharqi” and have Saudi Arabian origins. They have oversized openings where the big toe fits. The sandals are unique because of their comfort despite their bulky appearance. It would be best to get a pair or two.
- Aladdin’s Lamp
Dubai has souvenir lamps inspired by Aladdin’s tale. They are also known as magic lamps and you can buy them as souvenirs. The lamps can hold 12 hours of kerosene; you can use them to light your cabin or give them to a friend.
Note that you should take the necessary precautions when using it. In winter, it will help to put kerosene at room temperature.
- Inanimate Camels
These amazing animals are a beauty to behold and the best representation of this country. Their adaptability to the desert climate makes riding on them a memorable experience. And what better than having them as a souvenir? You can find inanimate camels in several souvenir shops in Dubai. You can buy them for decoration back home.
Note that, like other souvenirs, it will be best to buy them from local markets instead of the mall. Doing so will save you from the high cost.
- Hookah
Instead of vapes and other sophisticated e-cigarettes, there is hookah in Dubai. These are water pipes used to smoke shisha, a specially made tobacco you can find in different flavors like cherry, mint, apple, and coconut. They come single or multi-stemmed, and you can buy these pipes as souvenirs. If you can’t find a real hookah bulky, there is the option of mini hookahs that you can use to decorate.
- Arabic Coffee Pot
You can also buy dallah, an Arabic coffee pot made of brass. You will find this attractive set in souvenir stores, and you can buy them for decoration. Although they are used to prepare coffee, the types sold in these shops can’t withstand heat; hence not suitable for preparing any hot beverage. These pots symbolize a welcome and can serve the same purpose in your house.
- Flowered Scarves and Shawls
Last, but not least are the flowered scarves and shawls. These pieces of clothing are traditional and are still used in these regions. Some are symbolic, while some are normal, and the natives use them to complement their costumes or keep warm. These beautiful pieces are also unique souvenirs that you can find in most Dubai shops.
Conclusion
Visiting Dubai is a memorable event you must cherish, and souvenirs are the best way to do it. Fortunately, there are many things to buy. Many souvenirs come in different forms and have a rich history; it would be best to buy some and share them with family members or friends. However, make a point of asking for details of their meaning and how to use them.
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