Most shopping centres or malls in the UAE are much more than shopping destinations, many are well-designed attractive venues with food courts and entertainment areas

The major shopping areas of the city are Al Faheidi Road, Al Rigga Road, Al Karama, Al Satwa's Al Dhiyafah Road and Beniyas Square. The modern shopping malls, located throughout the city, contrast with the sights, sounds and smells of the traditional souks. Bargaining is the norm in the souks and even in shops it is wise to ask for 'the best price', particularly if paying by cash.

A number of huge new malls have opened in recent years. Mall of the Emirates, featuring Harvey Nicholls, Aspreys and Debenhams, has 223,000 square metres of shops and an indoor ski area. 'Downton Dubai' will cover 351,000 square metres when it is completed and Mall of Arabia, which will be located in Dubailand, is destined to be the largest in Dubai.

For years, shopping in Abu Dhabi was overshadowed by the more sophisticated centres in Dubai. In recent years however, magnificent new shopping centres have been built in Abu Dhabi. All the major High St brands eg. Oasis, Next, Laura Ashley as well as international haute couture are well represented.

The city of Dubai is an open port with low import duties and no taxation, and as such offers unbeatable value to the bargain hunter. Even major brand name products, widely available in the city, are often less expensive in Dubai than in their country of origin. Opening hours vary but shops are generally open from 08.00 to 13.00 and from 16.00 to 21.00. Although most shops are open on Friday evenings they close for prayers between 11.30 and 13.30.