Gold Souq, Dubai
by hjohnso4
The gold souqs of the Gulf have achieved the weary status of a cliche. Yes, there is lots of Gold. Yes, some of the craftsmanship is unique to the region, but much of it is from India. You will not find much in the way of 'bedouin' jewelry, but you will find many crass, modern designs. You might be amazed by the sheer number of gold shops, but a second glance will pick up the general shabiness of the area, and the fact that few locals seem to be shoppping. A tourist trap with good prices, if gold is your obsession.
Gold Coins - regional 8 gram coins, 21-24 carats, which are likely unavailable outside of the Gulf. A curious example is an 1896 King George VI sovereign. Gold Bars - in many shapes or sizes.Traditional souvenirs - brass and copper coffee pots, vases, plates, etc... Marble chess sets. Waterpipes. Jambias, the traditional knives of the peninsula. Carved and inlaid wooden...