Currency and Bargaining

In the United Arab Emirates the dirham is the primary currency used. One dirham is approximately .27 of a US dollar, or in other words, closest to the value of the U.S. quarter. Dirham coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 1000. Traveler’s checks can also be converted to dirham at most major resorts and airports, but are not usually accepted by local vendors. A great part of shopping in Fujairah or any Emirate of the 7 in the United Arab Emirates is the bargaining. Most vendors of both produce and merchandise will negotiate prices and are known to bargain down to approximately a 70percent price reduction.

Street Markets and Fresh Produce

A well known street market called the Masafi Market lies on the Dubai-Fujairah Road just outside of Masafi. This market is well known for its handcrafted rugs, pottery, antiques and souvenirs. It's open daily, but is most well-known for its Friday popularity and is sometimes called the Masafi Friday Market. Here is a location where any traveler can really put his or her bargaining skills to work.

Another Masafi market is the Safeer Market which takes on a more traditional supermarket style and sells a wide range of furniture, perfumes, clothes and fine teas. Not only will you find merchant markets outside Masafi, but nearby there is also a fresh produce market similar to an American farmer's market. Most of the fresh fruit and vegetables at the produce market are grown within the United Arab Emirates.

Shopping Centers

If you’re looking for a large shopping center, the Fujairah Night Souq will fit your needs. This elaborate shopping mall has over 100 shops from more than 15 countries. Among these shops is a wide variety ranging from trendy boutiques to basic chains. At this shopping center less bargaining is possible but the large number of stores allows choices for any shopper’s budget. Fujairah Night Souq partially gets its name from the extensive hours it offers--daily until 2 a.m. A unique characteristic of the Fujairah Night Souq is the small amusement park attached that includes basic fair rides such as the ferris wheel. This is a great place that allows you to kick back and relax after a day of shopping.

Fujairah can meet the needs of any tourist's shopping desires. Its vast variety of shopping from hand-crafted merchandise from merchant street markets to extensive shopping centers such as the Fujairah Night Souq ensure you will find everything you are looking for. You will also have a great time shopping as you experience the local culture of the United Arab Emirates.