New York, London, Paris – these capital cities are often depicted in television and films as beacons to shopping lovers everywhere. Come Christmas time, men and women alike grab their credit cards and head thousands of miles to their shopping destination of choice and stock up on gifts for loved ones (and themselves), only to fly all the way home again with an extra suitcase full of goods. Of course, you could save yourself

the plane fare and shop at your local department store, but the magic of spending a day in the hustle and bustle of Oxford Circus, Fifth Avenue or the Champs-Elysées transforms what would ordinarily seem like a chore into much more fun experience.

Despite these cities being heralded as havens for those who love to raid the rails, Dubai has long been referred to as the shopping capital of the Middle East and thanks to its tax free status, it is fast becoming the most popular holiday destination for shopaholics.

If you have yet to sample the hundreds of stores, malls and markets Dubai has to offer, this winter is the perfect time to book yourself a ticket. Between January 28th and February 28th, the city really pushes the boat out and is host to a huge month long shopping festival, full of bargains and entertainment. The festival is incredibly popular, usually attracting well over 2 million visitors, many of those from abroad.

Where to shop

With over 6000 retail outlets and malls participating in the festival, you will be spoilt for choice. Offering ‘the world’s best brands at the world’s lowest prices’, the Dubai retailers can guarantee unbeatable discounts during this month long event, sometimes of up to 80%.

There are over 40 malls in Dubai, offering over 16 million square feet of indoor shopping. The Dubai Mall, opened last year, is one of the largest malls in the world and contains over 12,000 stores including Debenhams and Bloomingdales, as well as entertainment venues and eateries.

Always incredibly busy during the Shopping Festival is The Mall of the Emirates, offering just about every store you could think of, including Adidas, Harvey Nichols, Boots, River Island, Tommy Hilfiger and Versace. There is also a huge number of cafes and restaurants.

If you are looking for something a little more traditional that you won’t find back at home, check out the Dubai souks. These are street markets, selling anything from jewellery to food and are where you will find the real bargains. Bartering is encouraged here and you are likely to get your hands on some really nice pieces for a fraction of the advertised price, particularly during the Dubai Shopping Festival. You can buy silk, textiles, perfumes, spices and even fish. There is also, of course, plenty of gold on sale, usually priced by weight.

Where To Eat

Not known only for shopping, Dubai is recognised as a culinary paradise. With around 500 restaurants offering cuisine from every corner of the world, there is something for everybody, whatever your favourite dish. Eating in Dubai isn’t cheap, particularly in some of the more renowned restaurants and hotels such as the Ritz-Carlton, The Blue Elephant and the stunning Michelin star winning Ossiano. Gordon Ramsay has even opened a restaurant, Verre, in the Hilton Dubai Creek hotel.

There are of course plenty of restaurants and cafes in the many Dubai malls, with the Mall of the Emirates offering Cafe Havana, Panda Chinese, Papa John’s Pizza and Indian Pavillion to name a few.

If it’s bars you’re after, you are in luck. Dubai has a great night life and there is a huge array of places to drink and dance, such as The Agency Wine Bar at the Emirates Tower Hotel, The Junction, Boudoir and Skyview Bar and 1897. There are lots of members’ only bars and clubs, but entry can be very expensive.

Things to Do for Children

Aside from the luxurious restaurants, designer fashion stores and beautiful bars, Dubai also offers a lot for families. Mall of the Emirates contains Magic Planet, an indoor amusement park which features rides, bowling, pool and bumper cars, so the children will be kept amused for hours.

There is also a huge aquarium, zoo, ice rink, several cinemas, camel riding and SEGA republic, another indoor theme park.

The Dubai Shopping Festival itself offers a lot of family entertainment, too, including fashion shows and fireworks. There are also street performances, raffles, film festivals and special children’s event which will be revealed nearer to the time.

So whether you want to stock up on bargains, enjoy the beautiful restaurants and bars or have a fun filled family holiday, the Dubai Shopping Festival has it all covered. Just remember to leave lots of space in your suitcase on you way over.

Where to stay

If you are attending the Dubai Shopping Festival, be sure to check out the stunning luxury apartments we have on offer in the area.