Buying gold in Dubai
Dubai is one of the world's great gold markets. Prices are quoted in dirhams per gram by karat, and because the dirham is pegged to the US dollar the Dubai rate moves almost exactly with international spot.
The prices on this page are the UAE's spot-based rate in AED: there is no separate exchange price for Dubai. Taxes and duties are explained on the gold price in UAE page.
The Dubai gold rate
The Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group publishes the official retail rates for 24K, 22K, 21K and 18K several times a day. Shops in the Gold Souk in Deira and the Gold & Diamond Park price from those rates and add a making charge per gram or per piece — the part that is negotiable.
Why gold is cheaper in Dubai than in India
Bullion enters the UAE without import duty, jewellery carries only 5% VAT (refundable to tourists at departure, minus a fee), and the dirham peg means no currency premium. India adds 15% import duty and 3% GST. The comparison box above works out today's gap. Travellers should check India's customs allowance: gold above the duty-free limit is taxed on arrival.
Shopping tips
Ask for the gold weight, karat, rate per gram and making charge separately on the receipt; compare a few shops; and look for the hallmark (916, 875, 750). Promotions are common during the Dubai Shopping Festival.
Tax and duty information last reviewed October 2026. Rules change — confirm with your dealer or tax authority before a large purchase.