Dubai
As almost all the emirates operate as open ports with low import duties, goods from around the world appear in the shops and the souks at enticing bargain prices. At times it seems that Dubai is a vast Aladdin's cave crammed with the very latest watches, cameras, camcorders, fashion and textiles, perfumes and cosmetics. There will be plenty to tempt even the least enthusiastic shopper, but don't take the first price you're offered-bargaining is expected. The main thing is to enjoy the experience, for shopping here is something that engages all the senses.
There's no need to settle just for the high-tech and the modern, though. As one might expect given its location and its culture, the UAE is a great place to buy traditional goods from the Middle East. Dubai is known for its excellent prices on Persian carpets. Other popular items include antique silver jewellery, Marie-Therese dollars (until recently an accepted local currency), brass coffee sets, hand-carved wooden dhow models and various ornaments set with turquoise, lapis lazuli and other semi-precious stones.
