Shopping is booming in the UAE, but it’s not just malls that people are flocking to, outdoor markets are attracting shoppers, too.
According to Melanie Beese, general manager at Green Spot Entertainment, which runs the popular Dubai Flea Market, more and more people in the Emirates are opting for a spot of outdoor shopping, especially during the cooler, winter months.
“Outdoor markets [in the UAE] have increased since consumers are enjoying shopping outdoors instead of walking inside malls,” Ms Beese said.
“Shopping in a public park in between the green scenery is a totally different shopping experience compared to malls and retail shops.”
One of the most recent additions to the UAE’s outdoor market scene is a Saturday Market in Al Ain.
Launched two weeks ago and running until March 25, it features local small businesses offering everything from jewellery and accessories to authentic home-grown fashion.
There is also a farmers’ market, which stocks locally sourced fruits and vegetables.
Vendors change weekly. There will also be live entertainment and family friendly activities.
It joins other markets in the emirate, including the popular Al Ain Oasis Souk.
The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan opened the market in the 1950s, and today it’s a hive of activity with dozens of stalls selling clothing, household items and food.
Outdoor markets are by no means a recent addition to the UAE’s retail landscape.
A weekend crafts market has been held on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche for the past 60-plus years. Once selling bric-a-brac and household items, today it sells everything from jewellery and clothes to beauty products and electronics.
Ripe Markets – selling organic skincare, handcrafted leather goods, handmade jewellery and paintings, as well as fresh fruit and vegetables – operate across the Emirates at pop-up venues year-round.
The Covent Garden Market, a Dubai staple, can be found at The Beach JBR, Marina Walk, Marsa Al Seef and Kite Beach. It sells clothing, jewellery, and arts and crafts.
Malls are also cashing in on al-fresco shopping.
Dubai Festival City has launched several outdoor markets, including the popular Vibes by the Bay. Running until May, it boasts a number of street food trucks, a range of stalls, family friendly activities and an aquatic circus experience.
Abu Dhabi’s Deerfield Mall also runs a farmer’s market from time to time.
Flea markets have also enjoyed a boon of late, thanks in large part to the pandemic.
Sharjah’s flea market, which takes place at the Majaz Waterfront, sells a large range of pre-owned items. It is run by the same group managing the Dubai Flea Market, which also have branches in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi.
Flea markets are something Ms Beese expects to see a lot more of in the future.
The Dubai Flea Market is held in Zabeel Park on the first Sunday of every month.
Ms Beese is preparing for the upcoming outdoor market this Sunday February 5, where more than 230 vendors will be participating.
She is expecting more than 6000 visitors to shop at the market during this period.
“It is one of the largest events I have managed.”
The second hand industry got a serious boost since the pandemic, as the demand of used goods is increasing.
“This is not only due to the fact that people are being more conscious about spending, but they are also more aware of a sustainable lifestyle,” Ms Beese concluded.
