Why go
The useful choice is between fixed-price mall shopping and the more conversational souk environment. Gold and spice markets around the Creek offer a historic retail setting, while large malls concentrate international brands. Compare like for like rather than assuming the city is uniformly a bargain.
The full story
Dubai’s trading history and modern logistics have made shopping a prominent part of the city’s visitor economy. That does not mean every district offers the same experience. In Deira, the Gold Souk and Spice Souk sit near Dubai Creek and retain the dense, small-shop character of an older market area. In Bur Dubai, Meena Bazaar is associated with South Asian fashion and handicrafts. Large malls offer a different pattern: air-conditioned complexes with international retail and fixed prices. Textiles, electronics and gold are common shopping categories, but specific pricing changes too quickly to make a durable promise. In souks, bargaining is part of the transaction; in malls it generally is not. Decide what you are looking for first, then choose the district that matches it.