Are you looking to venture into the traditional Abu Dhabi? Prepare to lose yourself in the narrow alleyways and lanes around the souks as you witness the local life and culture here. Read on to find out more!

Abu Dhabi Carpet Souk

You’ll find this carpet souk on Al Mina Road, a fascinating place with over 100 shops stocked with colourful and detailed Afghani and Iranian handmade carpets, machine-made carpets from Turkey, Central Asia, and China. You’ll also find Arabic cushions and upholstery. Don’t feel overwhelmed as the shop keepers will be more than happy to help you out.

Image by Hans Braxmeier from Pixabay

Madinat Zayed Gold Souk

The gold souk is actually a part of the Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, with striking gold jewellery displayed on the windows. These elegant pieces are lined with diamonds and other precious stones – you can even get jewellery customized to suit your taste!

Theodore Scott, Dubai Gold SoukCC BY 2.0

Al-Ain Camel Souk

While you visit the mainland from your base at Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas or any of the other Abu Dhabi luxury hotels, be sure to pay a visit to the camel souk. It is an authentic livestock market, one of the last remaining in the whole of UAE. Do ask for permission before you photograph the camels, however.

ykeiko, Al Ain Camel Souk アルアインらくだ市 – panoramioCC BY-SA 3.0