🌟 Introduction
Before Dubai became known for skyscrapers and luxury, it was famous for something far simpler — spices.
For centuries, merchants crossed deserts and oceans to trade saffron, cardamom, and frankincense along Dubai Creek. The air itself told stories of the East.
Today, walking through the Dubai Spice Souk or modern markets like Waterfront Market feels like stepping into that history. You’ll find rows of color, bowls of aroma, and sellers offering samples with a smile.
Whether you’re a home chef, a foodie traveler, or just someone who loves bringing back meaningful gifts, this guide by Fun Tours Dubai will show you exactly which spices to buy, where to find them, and how to shop smart.
🏺 1. Why Dubai Is a Spice Lover’s Paradise
Dubai’s spice scene reflects its roots as a global trading hub.
Because of its position between India, Iran, Africa, and the Levant, the city became a melting pot of flavor.
Today’s spice markets blend influences from:
- 🇮🇳 India – curry powders, turmeric, cumin
- 🇮🇷 Iran – saffron, dried lime (loomi)
- 🇴🇲 Oman & Yemen – frankincense and myrrh
- 🇸🇾 Levant – za’atar, sumac, Aleppo pepper
Every bag you buy carries centuries of trade and culture — an authentic souvenir you can actually use.
💬 Fun Tours Tip: On our Food Tours in Dubai, guides explain how each spice shaped Emirati cooking — and you’ll smell, taste, and try them firsthand.
🌸 2. The Top 10 Spices You Must Buy in Dubai
🧡 1. Saffron – The Golden Treasure
The world’s most expensive spice, saffron is a must-buy in Dubai.
It’s used in rice dishes like Machboos, desserts, and even coffee.
Look for deep red threads with minimal yellow — a sign of quality.
💡 Tip: Iranian “Super Negin” saffron is prized for aroma and color. Ask vendors for a whiff — the real one smells floral, not grassy.
💚 2. Cardamom – The Emirati Essential
You’ll find cardamom in everything from coffee (Gahwa) to sweets and even perfume.
Green cardamom pods are most common; black cardamom adds smoky depth to meats.
🥄 How locals use it: Crushed into Arabic coffee and sweetened with dates.
🟡 3. Turmeric – The Health Hero
Known as the “golden spice,” turmeric is used for color, flavor, and health.
Dubai’s markets sell both whole dried roots and fine powder — ideal for curries and skincare remedies alike.
🧄 4. Cumin & Coriander – The Everyday Base
Nearly every Emirati and Indian dish starts here.
Cumin adds warmth, coriander adds citrus brightness — together, they create that signature Arabian depth.
🔥 Traveler tip: Buy them whole and grind fresh at home for maximum flavor.
🧅 5. Sumac – The Tangy Secret
A deep red powder made from dried berries, sumac brings a lemony tang to meats, salads, and bread dips.
Perfect if you love Mediterranean or Arabic cuisine.
🍋 6. Dried Lime (Loomi) – The Desert Citrus
Unique to Gulf cooking, loomi adds earthy acidity to rice and stew.
It looks like a small black lime, dried under the desert sun.
Locals often grind it into Machboos — the UAE’s national rice dish.
🧂 7. Baharat – The All-Purpose Arabian Mix
A blend of paprika, pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves — Baharat is the Emirati version of “all-spice.”
It’s perfect for marinating meats or seasoning roasted vegetables.
💡 Fun Tours Tip: Ask vendors for “Dubai Baharat” — every family has its own twist, and sampling differences is part of the fun!
🌿 8. Za’atar – The Herbal Classic
A Middle Eastern mix of thyme, sesame, and sumac, za’atar is used on flatbread (manakish), salads, or as a dip with olive oil.
Its bright, nutty aroma captures the essence of Levantine cuisine that thrives in Dubai.
🪵 9. Cinnamon & Cloves – The Spice of Sweet Memories
Used in tea, desserts, and even perfume, these spices represent warmth and hospitality.
They’re often part of Arabic coffee blends — the smell alone will remind you of Dubai mornings.
💫 10. Frankincense & Myrrh – Fragrance of the Emirates
Not edible but worth mentioning — these ancient resins are burned for their soothing scent.
A perfect cultural souvenir from old Arabian trade.
🏙️ 3. Best Places to Buy Spices in Dubai
🕌 A. Dubai Spice Souk – The Heritage Hub
Located in Deira near Dubai Creek, this traditional souk is the city’s spice heart.
Vendors stand behind mounds of color — reds, yellows, purples — inviting you to smell before you buy.
💬 Fun Tours Tip: Visit with a guide who speaks Arabic or Urdu — they’ll help you get fair prices and authentic quality.
📍 Location: Al Ras, Deira
🕓 Best Time: Early morning or evening
🏖️ B. Waterfront Market – Modern Comfort
For air-conditioned comfort and fresh produce alongside spices, the Waterfront Market in Deira is ideal.
Prices are fixed, and hygiene standards are excellent — perfect for families or first-time visitors.
📍 Location: Corniche Deira
🛒 What to Buy: Spices, nuts, dates, honey
🌍 C. Global Village & Ripe Market – Seasonal Finds
During Dubai’s winter (October–April), pop-up markets like Global Village and Ripe Market sell regional spice mixes, organic blends, and handmade herbal gifts.
It’s a fun, open-air alternative to traditional souks.
💰 4. How to Shop Smart at the Spice Souk
- Smell before you buy — real spices are fragrant and rich, not dusty.
- Avoid pre-mixed bags — choose whole spices and ask sellers to grind them fresh.
- Negotiate gently — smile, ask for the “local price,” and you’ll often get discounts.
- Carry cash (AED) — small vendors may not accept cards.
- Ask for airtight packaging for export — vendors are used to preparing for travelers.
💡 Extra tip: Don’t rush — part of the magic is talking to the sellers. Many have traded spices for generations and will happily share recipes or stories.
✈️ 5. Taking Spices Home — Travel Tips
- Pack them in sealed plastic or vacuum bags.
- Keep powders under 100g per bag for easier customs checks.
- Avoid liquids like rose water in carry-on luggage.
- Label your purchases to remember each one’s use later.
Most countries allow dried spices, but double-check local import rules to avoid surprises.
🌶️ 6. Bringing Dubai’s Flavors to Your Kitchen
When you return home, recreate the taste of Dubai with your spice haul:
- Use saffron and loomi in rice or soup.
- Sprinkle za’atar on salads or pita.
- Mix baharat with olive oil for grilled meats.
- Brew Arabic coffee with cardamom and a touch of cloves.
💬 Want inspiration? Read our Top 5 Local Dishes to Try in Dubai — each one features these same authentic spices.
🌟 7. Why Explore with Fun Tours Dubai
For over two decades, Fun Tours Dubai has helped travelers experience the city’s flavors beyond restaurants — from souks and spice bazaars to rooftop dining and cultural kitchens.
With 160,000+ tours completed and 30,000+ five-star reviews, we’re trusted by guests from over 80 countries.
Our Food Markets & Souks Tour combines sightseeing with storytelling — guided by locals who know every scent, spice, and smile in the market.
📞 +971 50 190 2213 | ✉️ info@funtoursdubai.com | WhatsApp Us
🔗 Related Experiences
- Food Tours in Dubai
- Food Markets & Souks in Dubai
- Top 5 Local Dishes to Try in Dubai
- Dubai City Tour
🏜️ About Fun Tours Dubai
Since 2003, Fun Tours Dubai has connected travelers with the real UAE — through adventure, taste, and storytelling.
From the desert’s silence to the souk’s scent, we make every journey personal, authentic, and unforgettable.
With 24,859+ verified reviews on GetYourGuide, we’re proud to remain one of Dubai’s most trusted and loved local tour operators.
