A Souq is a boutique, flea market, supermarket, department store, open air reception, circus, sideshow, all at the same time, and very much a part of Arabian culture.
Sharjah is foremost in applying the best modern architectural ideas in the designs of the new Souqs. The older Souqs have been renovated in the traditional style to enhance their attraction for residents and tourists - a great experience !
Enjoy the ethnic setting of an Arabian market where the pleasure of the search and the ritual of the purchase are as important as the treasure itself
Anyone, who plans to stay in the UAE for a while, should definitely embark on several adventure trips to the Emirate's Souqs.
Here are some general rules that might help make your shopping enjoyable.
The golden rule is to buy what you like when you see it and to make sure you know what it is you are buying. Inquire to find out its origin and what it is made from.
Be patient, look for the right shape, size and color - be it carpet, piece of furniture, carving, brass, copper etc. to perfect a scheme for your ideal living space. Remember you may eventually ship it home, so think about size and shipping cost.
Bargain - it is often difficult to tell the difference between yesterday's treasure and today's reproduction, especially when the seller insists that anything over fifty years old is 'antique'. The system demands comparative shopping before discussing the price. Some bargaining is expected, as it is a traditional custom.
Sharjah Souqs:
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