It should come as no surprise that Abu Dhabi, the cosmopolitan capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a terrific shopping destination. Although it is not as big a shopping destination as Dubai, it is slowly getting there. From traditional open air markets and souks to upscale shopping malls, the emirate has them all. With so many different places to choose from, there is bound to be something for everybody.

Shopaholics, window shoppers, and bargain hunters will be more than satisfied with the myriad of options available in this emirate. Traditional open air markets, called souks, can be found in several places and shopping at one can be an interesting experience even if one does not purchase anything. The local souks not only give foreigners a taste of Emirati culture, it also helps them brush up on their bargaining skills.

The major souks include the Fish Souk, located in Mina Zayed, near the port area; the Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Souk, a bustling place full of colour; the Al Ain Souk, which may not seem like much next to the modern souks but is still a great place to explore; and the Carpet Souk, which sells all varieties of carpets.

Those looking for a bit more modern experience can try some of the emirate’s shopping malls. The Abu Dhabi Mall is a good place to start. It is one of the first malls to be built in the emirate. The Marina Mall is another popular shopping point. Tourists may also enjoy visiting the Dalma Mall, the Khalidiyah Mall, and the Al Wahda Mall.

As the emirate is large in size, navigating it can be tricky unless one has conveniently located accommodation. Tourists looking for luxury accommodation Abu Dhabi with a central location can try Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi. It is a conveniently located hotel in Abu Dhabi that gives guests easy access to the leisure and financial hubs. Although it is situated just a few minutes from the heart of the city, it occupies an untouched cocoon of tranquillity. When they want to, guests will have no trouble leaving the city behind.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+