Dubai, a city celebrated for its mix of modern luxury and traditional Arabian culture, is a paradise for shoppers seeking unique home décor. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s rich heritage or sleek contemporary designs, Dubai offers an array of treasures to enhance your living space. Here’s a guide to 10 home décor items to bring back from Dubai, perfect for adding style and cultural depth to your home.
1. Intricate Arabian Lanterns
Arabian lanterns are a quintessential piece of Middle Eastern décor, known for their intricate designs and colorful stained glass. These lanterns cast warm, vibrant patterns of light and are ideal for creating a cozy and inviting ambiance, whether placed indoors or outdoors.
Where to Find:
- Souk Madinat Jumeirah
- Deira’s Gold and Spice Souks
2. Handcrafted Persian Carpets
Dubai is renowned for its high-quality Persian carpets and rugs, which boast exquisite craftsmanship and intricate patterns. These timeless pieces come in a range of sizes and colors, making them versatile additions to any room. A well-chosen carpet can serve as a stunning centerpiece or add warmth to a smaller space.
Where to Find:
- Deira Carpet Souk
- High-end carpet stores in Dubai Mall
3. Decorative Throw Cushions
Middle Eastern décor often features rich, vibrant textiles, and throw cushions are a great way to incorporate this style into your home. Look for hand-embroidered or woven designs in bold colors and patterns to elevate your sofa, chairs, or bed.
Where to Find:
- Local artisan markets in Alserkal Avenue
- Dubai Design District (d3)
4. Arabic Calligraphy Art
Arabic calligraphy is an art form that beautifully blends culture and design. Framed calligraphy pieces featuring Quranic verses or meaningful quotes can serve as elegant focal points in your home. These artworks often combine tradition with contemporary aesthetics, making them timeless additions.
Where to Find:
- Galleries in DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre)
- Stores in Souk Al Bahar near Burj Khalifa
5. Oud and Incense Burners
Dubai is synonymous with the rich, earthy aroma of oud, a prized Middle Eastern scent. Decorative incense burners, often crafted from brass or ceramic, are functional and stylish. Pair these burners with traditional bakhoor or oud to add a luxurious fragrance to your home.
Where to Find:
- Perfume Souk in Deira
- Arabian Oud stores across Dubai
6. Elegant Arabic Coffee Sets
Arabic coffee, or gahwa, is central to Middle Eastern hospitality, and a beautifully crafted coffee set is a fantastic way to honor this tradition. Sets typically include a dallah (traditional coffee pot) and small cups, often adorned with intricate designs or made from polished metals like gold or silver.
Where to Find:
- Souk Madinat Jumeirah
- Shops in Al-Fahidi Historical District
7. Alabaster Lamps
Alabaster lamps are a perfect blend of elegance and functionality. Their translucent quality allows soft light to shine through, creating a serene atmosphere. These unique pieces can serve as both practical lighting and decorative accents for any room.
Where to Find:
- Boutiques in City Walk
- Dubai Design District
8. Traditional Bedouin Textiles
Bedouin textiles, with their geometric patterns and vibrant colors, are steeped in Arabian history. These versatile fabrics can be used as table runners, wall hangings, or throws, adding a rustic yet chic touch to your décor.
Where to Find:
- The Heritage Village
- Seasonal markets at Global Village
9. Luxurious Scented Candles
Dubai’s affinity for luxurious scents extends to home décor with perfumed candles. These candles, infused with oud, amber, or rose, combine exquisite fragrances with sleek designs, making them perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to any space.
Where to Find:
- Jo Malone and Diptyque stores in Dubai Mall
- Local luxury boutiques in Mall of the Emirates
10. Copper and Brass Accents
Dubai’s souks are filled with beautiful copper and brass home accents, from trays and vases to decorative bowls and teapots. These items, often hand-engraved with intricate designs, add warmth and character to living and dining spaces.
Where to Find:
- Souks at Dubai Mall
- Traditional markets in Old Dubai
Tips for Shopping Home Décor in Dubai
- Negotiate at the Souks: Bargaining is common in traditional markets, so don’t hesitate to ask for a better price.
- Check for Authenticity: Ensure the items you’re buying are handmade or locally sourced, especially for Persian rugs and calligraphy art.
- Plan for Shipping: For larger items like carpets or furniture, ask the retailer about international shipping options. Many stores offer delivery services to make transporting your purchases easier.
- Explore Local Markets: Artisan markets and galleries often feature unique, handcrafted pieces that aren’t available in mainstream stores.
Conclusion
Dubai’s rich culture and contemporary flair make it a top destination for finding unique home décor. From traditional lanterns and handcrafted Persian carpets to luxurious scented candles and calligraphy art, the city offers a wide variety of treasures to suit any style. By incorporating these items into your home, you’ll not only enhance your space but also carry a piece of Dubai’s charm and sophistication with you. Whether you’re decorating a cozy nook or a grand living area, these items will add a touch of elegance and cultural depth to your décor.
