SHOPPING IN RAS AL KHAIMAH
In the past, trading was one of the central economic forces of the region. The town of Julfar, the predecessor of Ras Al Khaimah, was an important supplier of foodstuff, pottery, pearls and other valuable items to the neighbouring countries and settlements. Till this day, commerce is a vivid and important part of the local economy, although it does not play such as important part as in the past. Nevertheless, shopping is a winner in the new category, meaning Ras Al Khaimah’s national hobby. Fuelled by modernization and development, crowds rush through the doors of department stores and shopping malls especially on weekends. Old souqs of Ras Al Khaimah are popular mainly with the locals and tourists.
While not as overwhelming as Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah is clearly headed in the same direction. Whether you want to browse for some traditional goods in souqs or find modern type of items in modern shopping malls, Ras Al Khaimah will deliver. Read more about shopping possibilites in Ras Al Khaimah in the sections on the left.
HOW TO PAY?
Cash is always welcome and in smaller shops, it is the only means of payment. Bigger shops, supermarkets and well-known retailers accept all major credit cards.
OPENING HOURS
In general, shops in Ras Al Khaimah are open from Saturday to Thursday from around 9am or 10am till 1pm or 1.30pm, and then from 4.30pm or 5pm until 10pm or 11pm. On Friday mornings commercial activities are muted and shops usually open from around 4.30pm and close at about 11pm. However, some shops may have their own opening hours, and a few supermarkets and shops are open throughout the day. In the Ramadan month, the opening times change and they vary from shop to shop, but usually all shops are open only after dusk.
BARGAINING
Most shops in Ras Al Khaimah have a fixed price policy. Places where you may try to negotiate a better price are the RAK Old Souq, smaller shops in Al Nakheel, Masafi Market, and vegetable and fish markets. Your deal depends on your bargaining skills and the time you have; but do not expect a significant discount, as the times where you could reach half the asking price are over.
