Dubai Gold District launches as global gold and jewellery hub
World’s first Gold Street to become a landmark attraction
DUBAI – Dubai has officially unveiled its newest landmark, the Dubai Gold District, a purpose-built destination designed to elevate the city’s position as a global centre for gold and jewellery trade.
Developed by Ithra Dubai, the District consolidates the full spectrum of gold and jewellery activity under one destination, spanning retail, bullion, wholesale trade, and investment. By uniting these activities, Dubai strengthens its status as one of the world’s most trusted and active hubs for gold commerce.
The launch event saw the presence of senior officials including H.E. Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Shaibani, Managing Director of the Investment Corporation of Dubai; Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers; Dr Juma Al Matrooshi, Assistant to the Secretary General of the Dubai Free Zones Council; and Issam Galadari, CEO of Ithra Dubai. They were joined by long-term traders from across the District, marking a key milestone in the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which focuses on enhancing Dubai’s role in global trade and commerce.
Dubai Gold District
The launch of Dubai Gold District also highlights the UAE’s growing influence as a global trading nation for precious metals. In 2024-25, the country exported approximately USD 53.41 billion worth of gold, with major trading partners including Switzerland, the United Kingdom, India, Hong Kong, and Turkiye. These figures position the UAE as the world’s second-largest destination for physical gold trading, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a trusted hub for investors, traders, and global brands.
Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, commented: “The announcement of Dubai Gold District marks a pivotal milestone for global trade, offering investors and market participants unparalleled access to one of the world’s most active gold trading hubs. This initiative firmly strengthens Dubai’s position as a global gateway for gold and jewellery trade, cementing its role in the global trading ecosystem.”
Issam Galadari, CEO of Ithra Dubai, added: “With the launch of Dubai Gold District, we are advancing a significant new chapter in the city’s gold and jewellery landscape. By uniting heritage, scale, and opportunity, the District brings together a diverse ecosystem of traders, investors, retailers, and global brands, serving shoppers and visitors across international markets and key global trade corridors.”
Strategic development
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), a division of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, emphasised the significance of the project for Dubai’s commerce and tourism sectors: “The launch of Dubai Gold District represents a defining moment in our city’s evolution as a global destination for commerce, culture, and tourism. Aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, this transformative development elevates our standing as a leading centre for gold and jewellery trade while creating compelling experiences for residents and international visitors.”
He added that gold has long been a symbol of Dubai’s cultural and commercial heritage. “Through this landmark destination, we not only celebrate that legacy but also reimagine it for a new era shaped by creativity and sustainability,” Al Khaja noted, highlighting the collaboration between public and private sectors in establishing the District.
Home of Gold
As Dubai’s new ‘Home of Gold’, the District brings together over 1,000 retailers, including jewellery, perfumery, cosmetics, and lifestyle brands. Prominent jewellery names include Jawhara Jewellery, Malabar Gold and Diamonds, Al Romaizan, and Tanishq Jewellery. Joyalukkas has announced plans for a 24,000 square foot flagship store, set to be the largest in the Middle East.
The District caters to a global audience, offering an unmatched diversity of buyers, traders, and consumers. In 2025, the District welcomed shoppers from more than 147 nationalities, reflecting Dubai’s position as a truly international marketplace for gold and jewellery.
Tourism and accessibility
Dubai Gold District also contributes significantly to the city’s tourism and retail sectors. The destination is supported by over 1,000 guest rooms across six hotels, providing convenient access for international visitors, buyers, and trade partners. The introduction of Big Bus routes into the District in 2025 further enhanced accessibility, making it a prime destination for tourists seeking gold and jewellery shopping experiences.
Gold Street
One of the District’s standout features is the world’s first Gold Street, a street constructed using gold, designed to become a distinctive attraction for tourists and visitors.
Further phases will reveal additional details, adding to the District’s appeal as a landmark destination.
The Dubai Gold District unites the gold and jewellery value chain, encompassing investment, retail, and wholesale trading in one location.