Dubai Gold Souk — The Complete Guide (2026)
The Dubai Gold Souk in Deira is the largest gold market in the world, housing over 380 jewelers and gold dealers in one iconic location. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned buyer, this guide covers everything you need to know — from opening times to bargaining secrets, price expectations to what you can legally take home.
Dubai Gold Souk Timings (Opening Hours)
| Day | Morning | Afternoon/Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday – Thursday | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Friday | 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM only | Closed in morning |
Most shops close for afternoon prayer between 1–4 PM. Confirm timings with individual shops as hours can vary slightly during Ramadan and UAE public holidays.
Where is the Dubai Gold Souk?
The Gold Souk is located in Deira, Old Dubai, near the Dubai Creek. The nearest metro station is Al Ras Metro Station (Green Line). From Dubai Mall or Downtown Dubai, take the metro to Union Station, then switch to the Green Line. A taxi from Dubai Marina takes approximately 25–30 minutes.
Address: Gold Souk, Sikkat Al Khail Street, Deira, Dubai, UAE
What to Buy at Dubai Gold Souk
- 22K Gold Jewelry: Rings, bangles, necklaces, earrings, chains — the specialty of the souk
- 24K Gold Bars & Coins: Available at larger dealers — always ask for DMCC certification
- 18K White & Rose Gold: Popular for diamond-set jewelry and modern designs
- Gold Watches: Several dealers stock gold-cased luxury watches
Bargaining Tips for Dubai Gold Souk
The gold rate itself is fixed by the Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group and cannot be negotiated. However, you can and should negotiate the makting (making) charge. Here’s how:
- Know today’s gold rate per gram before you enter (use our live table above)
- Ask the jeweler to separate the gold weight, gold rate, and makting charge
- Makting charges of AED 5–10/gram are typical — push for the lower end
- Compare prices across at least 3 shops for the same piece
- Buying more than one item or paying cash can sometimes get you a small discount on makting
- Be polite but firm — walking away often brings the price down
Gold Souk vs Mall Gold Shops — Which is Better?
The Gold Souk almost always offers lower makting charges and better overall prices than mall jewelers. Mall shops have higher rents which translate to higher markups. For the same 22K chain, you might pay AED 30–50 more per gram at a mall jewelry store versus a Gold Souk dealer. The trade-off is convenience and air-conditioning — the souk experience is more atmospheric but requires more time.
How to Check if Dubai Gold is Genuine
All gold sold in Dubai must be hallmarked by the Dubai Central Laboratory. Look for the DCC (Dubai Central Laboratory) stamp and the karat marking (22K, 18K, 916, etc.) on every piece. If a dealer cannot show hallmarked jewelry, do not purchase. Reputable Gold Souk dealers will always provide a receipt showing the gold weight, karat, rate, and makting charge separately.