Best Places to Buy Handmade Crafts in Dubai
Best Places to Buy Handmade Crafts in Dubai. While Dubai is often recognized for luxury malls and modern skyscrapers, the city also has a vibrant and deeply rooted artisanal culture. For East African tourists from Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and beyond, shopping for handmade crafts in Dubai offers a unique way to bring home something truly authentic and culturally rich.
From handwoven carpets to pottery, jewelry, and intricate textiles, Dubai’s craft markets are ideal for those seeking personalized souvenirs or home décor with a story behind them. Mandari Travel is here to guide you to the best places to buy handmade crafts in Dubai.
1. Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Al Fahidi is one of Dubai’s oldest districts and an ideal starting point for craft lovers. Wander through the narrow alleyways and discover art galleries, pottery shops, and handmade souvenirs crafted by local and regional artisans. Many of the shops also allow you to watch the artists at work.
What to Buy:
- Handmade pottery
- Calligraphy art
- Traditional incense burners
- Camel bone carvings
Location: Bur Dubai (near Dubai Creek)
2. Dubai Souk Al Bahar
Located next to Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa, Souk Al Bahar combines a modern shopping experience with traditional Arabic design. Here, you’ll find shops that sell luxurious handmade items, from Arabesque lanterns to embroidered textiles and framed mosaic artwork.
What to Buy:
- Handmade home décor
- Local artisan jewelry
- Arab-style lamps
This is a perfect stop for Tanzanian travelers looking for high-quality handmade gifts with a contemporary twist.
3. Global Village (Seasonal)
If you’re visiting Dubai between October and April, Global Village is a must-visit destination. It features pavilions from over 75 countries, including the UAE, selling handmade crafts, clothing, and art. It’s like shopping across the world in one place.
What to Buy:
- Emirati traditional crafts
- African-inspired Arabic art
- Handmade leather goods
The best part? You can bargain here, making it budget-friendly for shoppers.
4. The Dubai Mall – Arabian Treasures Shops
Even in Dubai’s most famous mall, there are niche corners like Arabian Treasures, where you can find beautiful handcrafted souvenirs. These include jewelry, perfume bottles, henna kits, and woven baskets, all made using local methods.
What to Buy:
- Intricately designed trinket boxes
- Handmade oud containers
- Traditional tea sets
5. Ripe Market (Weekend Market)
Ripe Market is a weekend market that rotates locations (often in parks or public spaces). It’s popular among local independent artists and crafters. Expect to find unique handmade fashion, woodwork, soaps, candles, and eco-friendly items.
Perfect for: Tanzanian tourists looking for gifts that support small businesses and artisans.
Let Mandari Travel Guide Your Craft Shopping Tour
Mandari Travel can help you plan a personalized shopping tour to explore Dubai’s top spots for handmade crafts. Whether you’re looking for authentic gifts, home décor, or souvenirs, we’ll take you where the quality is high and the experience unforgettable.
Email: info@mandaritravel.com
Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811
Fill out the form below to request a quote and get your Dubai artisan shopping experience started today!
