Small businesses have been a huge part of building the Abu Dhabi community and supporting local businesses has helped increase focus on local artists and has added to the economy.
Here is a guide to the ultimate list of the capital’s best, niftiest local businesses
THE One is a furniture store that has been transforming living spaces and turning dream homes into reality since it opened its first store in 1996. The brand promises to engage its staff, suppliers, customers and communities in its core purpose of ‘Changing the World Together’ through doing good and it has continuously been doing so by supporting local and international charities and starting various do-good initiatives.
THE One is a furniture store that has been transforming living spaces and turning dream homes into reality since it opened its first store in 1996. The brand promises to engage its staff, suppliers, customers and communities in its core purpose of ‘Changing the World Together’ through doing good and it has continuously been doing so by supporting local and international charities and starting various do-good initiatives.
Feathers Fashion, founded in 2010 by Khalid Basaeed is a luxury brand with deep Arabic culture at its essence. Its products range from leather goods, timepieces, jewellery, fragrances, accessories, sunglasses and shoes, reflecting the rich heritage of the Emirates and Middle Eastern fashion.
Mosaique Boutique, a cultural wonderland is a one-stop shop for modest clothing and home decor items. Located at the Nation Towers, the boutique carries items from designers all around the world. You can pick from a range of colourful chairs, elegant candles, and lush lights here. You can also pick elegant and classic pieces of fashion, jewellery, and even great literature. Mosaique Boutique was started in 2014 by Abu Dhabi-based expat Lama Qaddumi-Shahin, who has a great eye for unusual home decor hunts.
For a taste of traditional Abu Dhabi, the Souk Central Market is a go-to! Located in the centre of the old city, this souk has different barasti stands and houses a mix of high-end boutiques, cafes, and souvenir shops. From local spices to old lamps and home decor, the souk has it all! It is also one of the oldest markets in the city and a great place to discover traditional Gulf architecture.
The Iranian Souk, located directly across from the Dhow Harbour, unlocks a unique door to Arab history. Stalls carry traditional wooden goods, Persian carpets, small items, and rugs. The open-air market offers a wide range of seafood, making it the perfect place to visit after a stroll through the Mina Fish Market.
Lastly, no trip to Abu Dhabi is complete without to the famous Carpet Souk. This souk features over 100 stores selling different kinds of carpets, including Persian rugs, silk rugs, Afghani carpets, and Yemeni mattresses. The souk has shops that make custom, hand-made carpets based on what the customer wants.
These local businesses are a testament to the thriving business community that has been built in Abu Dhabi. From luxury goods to quirky home decor items or a taste of traditional Abu Dhabi, these businesses offer something for everyone.
