Free Guide Abu Dhabi City
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Abu Dhabi has historically been on many ancient trade routes, so it is perhaps fitting that Abu Dhabi is a shopping centre of excellence.
It is now a top destination for shoppers of all types, from bargain hunters to those who have everything, and souvenir collectors to antique hunters, Abu Dhabi has a shop, mall or market stall to suite.
Shopaholics will be delighted to learn that the shops stay open late here, so there is plenty of time to see everything during your stay.
Common items to leave in tourists' luggage are gold, spices, carpets and antiques. To make life easier many shops can arrange to ship your items home for you, which will save you from trying to convince the check in desk that you're not really over your weight limit.
If you are after discounted international brands, then head for one of the enormous shopping malls. Don't worry about the weather, as these are all fully air-conditioned for your comfort. As well as international stores, there are the kinds of everyday shops that you would expect to see at your local shopping centre.
However you can still experience the traditional Arabian shopping experience at one of the traditional markets, or souks. All your senses will be overloaded as you walk through these lively stalls. There are many bargains to be found in souks, but if the price is too good to be true, then is probably is!
While at a souk you can practise the old art of bartering. It is the expected way of doing business, so to start offer half the seller's asking price. Then keep bargaining until you come to a mutually acceptable price. Don't be shy as you will not offend as long as you are not rude.
Although the large malls have long opening hours, the souks close at 19:00, and have a three hour break between 13:00 and 16:00. They are also closed on Friday mornings.
So next time you're looking for that special gift, think about taking a trip to Abu Dhabi.
