Discover Abu Dhabi through its Souks

Abu Dhabi’s souks, translating to markets, offer visitors a deeper glimpse into the UAE’s role as a trade and commercial hub. Whether it’s fresh spices, fruits, carpets, or handcrafted goods, there is something for everyone in these buzzing marketplaces.

For Guest Relations Manager Fabienne Krug, it offers a connection to the character of his city. “In Abu Dhabi, you can find everything in our souks. There is a rich history with influences from around the world that is evident when you visit these markets. It is something that every visitor should see and experience.”

Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Souk
A kaleidoscope of color, the fruit and vegetable market in Mina Zayed Port has everything from beautiful coconuts from Sri Lanka, banas from India, to local UAE produce. However, most importantly, you can find a limitless variety of dates from around the Middle East, including medjool, fard, khalass, barhi that vary in sweetness, color, and price. Be sure to sample them all before you buy!

Mina Zayed Fish Souk
Mina Zayed’s Fish Souk is a must visit. First of all, there’s an incredible bounty of seafood fresh from Arabian waters. More importantly, it’s worth visiting for the playful banter with the warm and welcoming fishermen, as you haggle for prawns, calamari, and red snapper. Once you’ve selected your favorites, be sure to bring them to one of the many restaurants, who can sear, fry, or grill it to perfection for a reasonable price.

Abu Dhabi Carpet Souk
With limitless options, the carpet souk on Al Mina Road is a labyrinth of more than one-hundred shops. It has a wealth of handmade carpets with a variety of designs from Turkey, China, and Central Asia that can be purchased for a reasonable price, if you haggle well enough with the colorful shopkeepers.

Souk Al Zafarana
Take a day-trip to neighboring city Al Ain to enjoy a glimpse of authentic Emirati culture at Souk Al Zafarana. This souk has everything from delicately-embroidered abayas, henna, oud, dallah, and much more. This trip can be combined with other amazing sights including the Al Ain Oasis and Jebel Hafeet.

If you are searching for something special, be sure to ask our concierge team at concierge.abudhabi@fourseasons.com, who can give you all the insider tips and tricks.