Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and culinary traditions, making it a paradise for spice lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned chef, a food enthusiast, or simply someone looking to bring home some authentic Middle Eastern flavors, Dubai offers a vast array of spice markets and specialty stores. From the historic Spice Souk to modern gourmet shops, here’s your ultimate guide to buying spices in Dubai.
The Dubai spice souk: A must-visit for authentic spices
One of the most famous places to buy spices in Dubai is the Dubai Spice Souk, located in the Deira district. This traditional market has been a cornerstone of the city’s spice trade for decades, attracting locals and tourists alike.
For a truly immersive experience, consider arriving at the Spice Souk by boat. Traditional abras, small wooden boats, offer a scenic and budget-friendly way to cross Dubai Creek, giving you a glimpse of the city’s old trading routes before stepping into the vibrant marketplace.
What you’ll find at the spice souk
The Dubai Spice Souk is a vibrant and aromatic marketplace where you can find:
✔ ️ Saffron – High-quality Iranian saffron at competitive prices.
✔ ️ Cardamom – Essential for Arabic coffee and desserts.
✔ ️Sumac – A tangy spice used in Middle Eastern salads and marinades.
✔ ️Za’atar – A flavorful mix of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac.
✔ ️ Turmeric, Cinnamon, Cloves – Commonly used in Indian and Arabic dishes.
Tips for buying at the Spice Souk
Bargain with the vendors – Prices are often negotiable, so don’t be afraid to haggle.
Buy in bulk – You can get better deals if you purchase larger quantities.
Ask for freshness – Fresh spices have a stronger aroma and color.
Location: Al Ras, Deira, Dubai
Opening hours: 10 AM – 10 PM (Friday timings may vary)
Supermarkets with high-quality spices
If you prefer a more modern shopping experience, Dubai’s supermarkets offer an excellent selection of high-quality spices from around the world.
Best Supermarkets for Buying Spices
✔ ️ Carrefour – A reliable option for purchasing both local and international spice brands.
✔ ️ Spinneys – Offers premium-quality spices, perfect for gourmet cooking.
✔ ️Lulu hypermarket – Great for Indian, Middle Eastern, and African spices at reasonable prices.
✔ ️ Waitrose – Stocks organic and specialty spices for health-conscious buyers.
Why Choose supermarkets?
Conveniently located in shopping malls.
Pre-packaged spices with clear labeling.
Often have organic and gluten-free options.
Available at: Major shopping malls and standalone stores across Dubai.
Bateel: Premium spices and dates
For those who appreciate luxury, Bateel is a high-end store that specializes in gourmet spices, nuts, and dates. Known for its elegant packaging and top-tier quality, Bateel is a great option if you’re looking for a unique spice gift or high-end saffron.
✔ ️Best for: Premium-quality saffron, spice blends, and Middle Eastern flavors.
Location: Multiple outlets across Dubai, including The Dubai Mall.
Organic and specialty spice stores
If you prefer organic or rare spices, Dubai has several specialty stores that cater to specific dietary preferences and gourmet needs.
Best organic & specialty spice shops
✔ ️ Organic foods & café – Perfect for organic, non-GMO spices and herbs.
✔ ️ The spice & tea exchange – Offers rare and unique spice blends.
✔ ️ Jones the grocer – Stocks gourmet and specialty spices.
Where to find them? These stores are typically located in malls like The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.
Indian and Asian spice markets
Since Dubai has a large Indian and Asian community, there are several markets dedicated to Indian, Pakistani, and Asian spices.
Best Indian spice markets in Dubai
Al Adil Supermarket – Specializes in Indian herbs, masalas, and condiments.
Choithrams – Stocks authentic South Asian spice brands.
Mina Bazaar – A great place for Indian spices, lentils, and cooking essentials.
Best Areas: Bur Dubai, Karama, Al Fahidi
Online spice shopping in Dubai
If you don’t have time to visit physical stores, Dubai offers plenty of online shopping options where you can order high-quality spices and have them delivered to your doorstep. Whether you’re a local or a visitor exploring the city, online spice shopping allows you to save time and enjoy more of Dubai’s attractions, from luxury malls to scenic drives in the desert.
For those looking to explore Dubai in style, renting a car is a great option. If you’re searching for a cheap sports car rental in Dubai, you’ll find plenty of affordable options to cruise around the city while experiencing its vibrant markets and gourmet shops.
Best online stores for buying spices
Amazon UAE – Wide selection of international and local spices.
Instashop – Convenient for quick spice deliveries.
Spinneys & carrefour online – Great for grocery shopping with doorstep delivery.
Website: Available through respective retailer websites and mobile apps.
Spice souvenirs: What to bring home from Dubai?
If you’re visiting Dubai and want to bring home a taste of the Middle East, here are some spice souvenirs worth considering:
Saffron – The most prized and expensive spice, ideal for teas, rice dishes, and desserts.
Arabic Spice Mix (Baharat) – A flavorful mix perfect for meat dishes.
Dried Rose Petals – Used in desserts and teas.
Frankincense & Myrrh – Often used for aromatic and therapeutic purposes.
Camel’s Milk Chocolate with Spices – A unique blend of chocolate infused with cardamom and saffron.
Packing tip: Ensure that your spices are well-sealed and follow airline regulations for carrying food items.
Dubai is a haven for spice lovers, offering everything from traditional souks to modern specialty stores. Whether you prefer the vibrant markets of Deira or the premium selections of high-end gourmet stores, you’ll find an incredible variety of fresh and exotic spices.
Before making a purchase, consider your preferences:
Looking for authenticity? Head to the Dubai Spice Souk.
Prefer convenience? Try supermarkets like Carrefour or Lulu.
Want premium quality? Check out Bateel and specialty gourmet stores.
Shopping online? Amazon UAE and Instashop have you covered.
For a perfect day in Dubai, pair your spice shopping experience with an evening visit to the Dubai Fountain show. If you’re wondering about the time of Dubai Fountain show, performances take place daily in the evening, offering a mesmerizing spectacle of water, music, and lights near the iconic Burj Khalifa.
No matter where you choose to buy your spices, Dubai promises a flavorful shopping experience like no other!
