All that glitters: The insider's guide to gold in Dubai

Whether you're looking for a new addition to your jewellery collection or splashing out on something for a special occasion, Dubai is one of the best destinations in the world for purchasing gold and fine jewellery. From the basics to the trends, here's what to look out for when you're going for gold. 

What is a gold karat?

Karat is the unit used to measure the purity of gold: the higher the karatage, the higher the purity of gold. The highest possible ranking is 24-karat gold, otherwise known as pure gold. It is commonly sold in coins or bars, as the metal is too soft for jewellery.

Visitors often choose to buy the world's most precious metal in the city of gold. When browsing the stores, remember that Dubai jewellers commonly use 22-karat gold for chains, bangles and plain rings, while the more durable 18-karat gold is used for diamond rings and other stone-studded pieces.

What is the price of gold in Dubai?

Dubai is one of the best places in the world to buy gold. As a traded commodity, gold goes through constant price fluctuations, and that price makes up roughly 80 to 90 per cent of the final price. Keen shoppers can consult the Dubai Gold and Jewellery Group website – dubaicityofgold.com – for the daily market rate. With a little research, you'll soon get a good understanding of the metal and its market worth. 

Gold jewellery is then sold according to its weight in Dubai, and a labour charge is added by each store depending on the intricacy of the design. The UAE recently introduced a 5% value added tax (VAT) on purchases, but buying gold in Dubai is still considered to be a great deal cheaper here in comparison to other countries. 

How do I know if I'm getting a good deal?

According to Amina Mohamad Ali from Zaiba Jewels, which specialisese in Arabic, Turkish and Indian jewellery designs made of 22-karat gold, the city's eagle-eyed regulators keep trade both fair and competitive: “Dubai as a destination for gold is synonymous with trust and purity. The industry here is governed by strict regulations and a code of conduct which provides transparency and protection to the buyer.”

Found your perfect piece? In addition to the itemised invoice, remember to request for the digital authentication certificate. Dubai gold dealers are obliged to provide this on request. The certificate specifies the karats, the weight of actual gold in the jewellery, weight of the stones used, and cost of the labour. With this, your new purchase can be authenticated and valued anywhere in the world. 

What gold jewellery will stand the test of time?

In Dubai, designs with a cultural and heritage focus are sourced globally, catering to the expectations of an international customer base. Zaiba Jewels is seeing a resurgence of more traditional and ethnic designs, which stems from a greater appreciation and respect for heritage.

As one of Dubai's oldest family-owned gold retailers, Khushi Jewellers is used to handling requests across continents. “We specialise in polki, bridal, and Indian antique jewellery,” shares Manjari Khatwani. Antiques are one of the most sought-after categories in terms of value and intricate craftsmanship, and are often passed down through generations.

However, the store also stocks increasingly popular lightweight Singaporean, Malaysian and Turkish gold jewellery, designed for everyday wear. “During the Diwali season, customers purchase jewellery for auspicious or festive reasons, and these purchases are usually lightweight pieces,” says Khatwani. 

What are the latest trends in gold jewellery?

There's more demand than ever for gold jewellery of lesser weight. Delicate chains and slimmed down bracelets are replacing heavier rings and thick bangles, which gives customers a chance to select a design that won’t break the bank.

For daily wear, sculpted designs take first-prize using thin, intricate carvings that are eye-catching without being too ostentatious. For example, Dubai-based jewellery brand Damas has struck gold with with its range of nature-inspired Italian designs, while India's Joyalukkas delights with bangles and necklaces reminiscent of architecture, such as geometrically-cut windows. With fewer engravings, Italian brand Damiani employs thin chains and simplified sculpting – the snake a popular motif – for everyday fashion. 

Shop for the latest jewellery collections at the city's best malls or hunt for special souvenirs at Dubai's traditional souks.