Gold Souq Deira | Dubai

The Gold Souq in Deira is one of Dubai's oldest and best-known markets, set in the Al Ras district close to Dubai Creek. More than 300 shops line its lanes. Most of them sell gold jewellery, but you will also find silver shops and dealers in diamonds, pearls and other precious stones among them. The main street is covered and car-free, with wooden lattice gates and roofing, so it stays shaded even on hot days. The day's gold rate is posted around the souq, and it is worth comparing a few shops before buying. The making charge is priced separately from the gold itself, and bargaining over it is normal here. Shops in the souq operate under government regulation. One of the sights is the Najmat Taiba, certified by Guinness World Records as the world's heaviest gold ring, on display at Kanz Jewellers just past the main entrance. The nearest metro station is Al Ras on the Green Line, and from across the Creek you can take an abra, Dubai's traditional water taxi, to the Deira Old Souk abra station. The Spice Souq and Perfume Souq are right next door, and a sign for Murshid Souq stands by Gate 2. Parking nearby is hard to find, so the metro or an abra is the easier way in. Opening hours vary by shop: most are open mornings and evenings, and some close in the early afternoon and on Friday mornings.