The Mina Port Zayed is one of the jewels of Abu Dhabi for tourists, locals and expatriates. With a number of attractions, there is likely enough for you to do for an entire day. The Mina port will give you a true Arabic experience, so enjoy the hospitality and the bargaining.
The Carpet Souk
I believe this is one of the lesser known areas in the port, mostly because it’s difficult to get into the car park area. Located at the corner of Al Mina Street and 14th street, the only entrance requires a U-turn on 14th when coming from downtown. Here you will find about 100 stores selling carpets, prayer rugs, fabrics and upholstered cushions from around the region.
Enter any of these shops and you can bet there is a smiling shop owner ready to sell you whatever it is you desire. Serious buyers can expect the shop owners to unroll every carpet in their store on your quest to find the perfect carpet. It’s likely they will also retrieve carpets from other stores around the souk. Once a decision is made, then the bargaining can begin. Expect to spend a good bit of time driving the price down and expect to pay about 1/3 the owner’s first price.
Vegetables & Fruits Market
Located on the right hand side of 20th Street at the port (you’ll see signs), the Vegetable & Fruit Market holds some great values. There are a number of stalls selling fruits and vegetables wholesale as well as a few stalls selling produce to consumers. Here you will find the freshest fruits and vegetables at the lowest prices in town. For the best value and variety check out the covered market located in the back left corner, it’s covered with a blue and white striped tent.
Making your way towards the dates and dried fruits section should be a must when visiting the port. Here you will find piles and trays of the finest Middle Eastern dates from around the region. There are also small shops inside that offer figs, dates, date syrup and a selection of other dryed goods. Don’t be surprised if you are offered samples and perhaps even a tea while you sample. Take your time and try everything before you buy. These goods will be much cheaper and of higher quality then those sold in the local stores and remember the more you buy the cheaper they get.
Plant Souk
It’s not likely that many tourist will be purchasing plants in Abu Dhabi but they may want to check out what grows in the region. For residents, the plant souk is the place to buy indoor and outdoor plants, pots and soil wholesale. Located on the left hand side of 20th at the first roundabout.
The stock changes throughout the year but you can usually find citrus trees, cacti, flowers as well as hearty dessert plants great for your garden or patio. Make sure your getting the best price and try to buy from the same owner consistently, as the prices get better with multiple visits.
Iranian Souk
Located next to the plant souk, this eclectic souk is filled with goods from Iran and other countries in the region. Goods are carried on traditional wooden dhows across the Persian Sea by small merchants. Goods here range from wood for camp fires to lawn chairs to large pots for cooking. It is another great experience to walk in the narrow corridors searching for hidden gems and deals. Often a trip to the Iranian Souk results in purchasing items you didn’t know you needed.
The Fish Market
Every morning dhows from around the region bring their fresh catches to the Mina Fish Market in Abu Dhabi. Located near the marina, follow the signs and the smell, after a turn around at the first roundabout on 20th street you will find it on the right. At the market you will find countless stalls selling all kinds of sea creatures including Shrimp, Prawns, Crabs, Clams, Tuna, Hammour, Skate, Cuddle fish, and even Shark. If your looking for a regional fish, you will find it at the Mina Fish Market.
It’s recommended that if you plan on eating or purchasing fish that you do so early in the day, say before noon. Once you have purchased you fish or seafood, you can take it to any of the eager fish cleaners for scaling, gutting and filleting. It’s also possible to have your fish cooked right in the market and is a great meal alternative to an expensive restaurant. Just locate one of the small stands and they can prepare your fish however you would like, grilled, fried, seared, etc. There are few other places where you can have fish cleaned and cooked at their peak freshness and you’re encouraged to enjoy a fresh fish lunch for a fraction of the cost.
Tip: Finding your way around the port can be confusing but there are many signs to guide you. Remember that as an active government port, taking pictures in this area can attract unwanted attention. When taking photos stay away from sweeping landscapes as you may take photos of sensitive things. Always ask permission when taking pictures of people or their shops. Enoy!
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