Dubai, widely known as the City of Gold, continues to be a top destination for jewellery lovers from around the world. From intricate gold pieces to dazzling diamonds and vibrant gemstones, the city offers a wide variety of choices for those shopping for weddings, gifts, or personal collections.
Despite global economic uncertainty and soaring precious metal prices, experts say buyers in Dubai can still find good value—if they know what to look for. According to recent data, gold jewellery demand in the UAE dropped by 7.9 tonnes in the first quarter of 2025, marking an 18 percent year-on-year decline. This downturn is largely attributed to record-high gold prices, driven by persistent geopolitical tensions and trade-related concerns.
As of Sunday, 24-karat gold was trading at Dh402.25 per gram, while 22-karat gold stood at Dh372.25 per gram. In such a high-price environment, it becomes even more essential for consumers to make informed decisions. To help shoppers navigate this landscape, jewellers across Dubai have shared 15 key strategies that can lead to smarter, more cost-effective purchases.
Timing your purchase is crucial. Shopping during citywide events like the Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Summer Surprises, Eid, or Valentine’s Day often results in significant discounts and promotional offers. Comparing prices across multiple stores is another simple but effective way to assess differences in price, craftsmanship, and collection variety. Buyers are also advised to request a full price breakdown that includes the gold rate, making charges, and VAT separately—this level of transparency ensures there are no hidden fees.
Monitoring daily gold rates is equally important, as prices fluctuate frequently. A buyer who checks the market rate on the day of their purchase is more likely to strike a fair deal. Additionally, making charges—the fees added for craftsmanship—can vary widely between jewellers, so it’s worth negotiating these charges. Many stores also offer loyalty programs, where returning customers earn rewards or discounts.
Cashback deals and special promotions often appear through partnerships between jewellery stores, malls, and local banks. Using credit cards that provide instant discounts or 0% instalment plans can help shoppers manage larger purchases more easily. Equally important is ensuring that every item purchased comes with valid certification and a clear return or exchange policy.
When buying diamonds, customers should ask for grading reports from reputable institutions such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or IGI (International Gemological Institute). These documents verify the authenticity and quality of the stones. Inquiring about after-sales services, such as lifetime cleaning, repair warranties, or buyback guarantees, can further enhance long-term value and peace of mind.
Tourists should also be aware that they may be eligible for VAT refunds on qualifying purchases, providing an additional cost-saving opportunity. Many jewellery stores offer periodic discounts specifically on making charges, and some extend flat percentage reductions on diamond jewellery as part of promotional campaigns. Finally, shoppers are encouraged to consider bundle offers, as purchasing matching sets or jewellery combinations may come with free gifts or additional value.
By applying these tips, jewellery buyers in Dubai can make confident, well-informed decisions and enjoy a seamless shopping experience—balancing beauty, authenticity, and value in one of the world’s most vibrant gold markets.
Courtesy: Khaleej Times
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
