Luxury Style

Dubai has built one of the world’s most concentrated and diversified retail landscapes, positioning shopping not as a side attraction but as a central pillar of its economy and global brand.

Retail contributes a significant share to Dubai’s non-oil GDP, supported by a combination of large-scale malls, traditional markets, and a steady flow of international visitors. The city is home to more than 60 shopping malls, including The Dubai Mall - one of the largest malls globally by total area - as well as Mall of the Emirates, which introduced indoor skiing to the retail experience in the Middle East. These complexes function as mixed-use destinations, combining shopping with dining, entertainment, and tourism infrastructure.

Dubai’s appeal as a shopping hub is reinforced by its role as a global trade and logistics center. Its ports, free zones, and air connectivity have enabled international brands to establish regional headquarters and flagship stores in the city. Luxury labels, mass-market retailers, and emerging designers operate side by side, reflecting Dubai’s position at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Alongside modern retail, traditional souks remain active parts of the commercial fabric. The Gold Souk, Textile Souk, and Spice Souk in historic areas such as Deira continue to serve residents and visitors, offering goods that reflect long-standing trading practices. These markets coexist with newer developments, underscoring Dubai’s approach of layering growth onto existing commercial traditions rather than replacing them entirely.

Seasonal retail events have further shaped consumer culture. The Dubai Shopping Festival, launched in 1996, remains one of the city’s most prominent annual events, drawing international visitors with promotions across retail, hospitality, and entertainment sectors. Such initiatives align with broader tourism strategies aimed at sustaining year-round visitor traffic.

Dubai’s retail sector has also adapted quickly to changing consumer behavior. E-commerce adoption has accelerated, while physical stores increasingly emphasize experience, convenience, and integration with digital platforms. Government-led initiatives supporting smart services and cashless payments have reinforced this shift.

Taken together, Dubai’s shopping ecosystem reflects the city’s broader economic strategy: diversification, scale, and connectivity. Retail in Dubai is not simply about consumption, but about positioning the city as a global marketplace - one that continues to evolve with consumer trends while remaining rooted in its trading history.

Photo credits: Wikipedia. Dubai Mall

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

In a city defined by excess and innovation, the arrival of the Rimac Nevera in Dubai marks more than the introduction of a new hypercar—it signals a new era in ultra-luxury mobility. Officially launched in the UAE by Al Habtoor Motors in 2024, the Nevera is the world’s fastest street-legal electric vehicle, and perhaps the most radical redefinition of what speed, power, and sustainability can look like on the desert roads.

With a 1,914 horsepower quad-motor setup and a top speed of 412 km/h (256 mph), the Nevera accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 1.81 seconds. It’s not merely theoretical: the car shattered 23 world performance records in a single day in 2023, including the fastest quarter-mile (8.25 seconds), 0–400–0 km/h (29.94 seconds), and Nürburgring electric lap record (7:05.298). These feats establish Rimac as not just a disruptor, but a leader among high-performance automakers.

But the Nevera’s appeal in Dubai goes beyond raw numbers. Its body is sculpted entirely from carbon fiber, with an adaptive aerodynamic system and a battery pack integrated into its core structure for both efficiency and rigidity. Only 150 units of the Nevera will be built globally, each priced at over $2.1 million. Some models arriving in Dubai have been ordered with bespoke paint schemes, personalized battery tuning, and AI-assisted digital displays—placing the Nevera squarely in the realm of collector-grade engineering.

Dubai’s Al Habtoor Motors, appointed as Rimac’s exclusive UAE distributor, now hosts the region’s first dedicated Rimac showroom. Designed to cater to a new generation of EV-forward collectors, it offers fully digital car configuration, luxury delivery services, and direct support from Rimac’s technical team. Though initial deliveries in the UAE remain limited, interest is rising as high-net-worth buyers increasingly view EV performance as a worthy successor to V12 combustion grandeur.

In 2025, Rimac introduced the Nevera R, a track-focused upgrade with 2,107 hp and upgraded chassis, braking, and aerodynamics—capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 1.66 seconds and topping out at 432 km/h (268 mph). While production remains ultra-limited, the Nevera R represents the brand’s push into circuit culture, even while remaining fully road legal.

Unlike many hypercars on Dubai’s roads—the Nevera brings something rare to the city’s luxury scene: silent dominance. Its zero-emissions powertrain reflects the UAE’s forward-facing clean energy strategy. Its digital intelligence and customizability align with a culture of hyper-personalization. And its exclusivity, engineering, and European provenance place it in direct conversation with the Bugattis and Koenigseggs that came before.

On Sheikh Zayed Road, the Nevera appears less like a car and more like a statement of what’s next. It’s the rare hypercar that does not roar—but instead hums with intent, quietly reshaping the way Dubai thinks about speed, prestige, and the electric future.

Photo credits: Rimac Newsroom

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

On Sheikh Zayed Road few vehicles possess the sovereign presence of a Rolls‑Royce. The Phantom—favored by royals and captains of industry—is not simply a car but a declaration of permanence, power, and profound silence. With its hand-stitched interiors, star-lit ceilings, and “Magic Carpet Ride” suspension, the Phantom delivers a near-silent glide through Dubai’s kinetic sprawl.

Beyond the Phantom, the Cullinan SUV offers a commanding blend of desert-ready all-wheel drive and interior luxury suited to private jet standards. The younger Ghost appeals to a rising class of self-driving billionaires, while now-discontinued models like the Wraith and Dawn remain sought-after among collectors across the UAE.

What truly defines Rolls‑Royce in Dubai, however, is its bespoke philosophy. Nearly 100% of the vehicles sold in the region are customized—some with gold-plated details, silk-embroidered monograms, or even personal art pieces sealed behind glass dashboards. Coachbuilt rarities like the Boat Tail and Droptail exceed AED 100 million and are produced in single-digit quantities.

This appetite led Rolls‑Royce to open its first global Private Office outside Goodwood, right on Sheikh Zayed Road. Here, clients co-design every detail of their car—down to the scent of the leather—with direct access to Rolls‑Royce’s London design studio. In 2023 and 2024, the Middle East ranked among the brand’s top bespoke markets, prompting a £300 million investment into expanding ultra-luxury production.

In Dubai, a Rolls‑Royce is more than a luxury—it is personal architecture on wheels, hand-built with reverence for individuality. On these sunlit roads, to glide in a Phantom is to make no sound—only a lasting impression.

Photo credits: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Dubai

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Amid the architectural spectacle of Downtown Dubai, where every detail is designed to impress, Twice Salon takes a subtler, more refined approach to luxury. Located on the bustling Downtown Boulevard, this multi-level beauty destination blends understated design with expansive service, creating an experience that is both curated and complete.

Inspired by minimalist Pinterest aesthetics, Twice is awash in warm neutrals, soft curves, and gold accents. The atmosphere is polished yet serene—more boutique hotel than conventional salon. The layout is thoughtfully divided: the ground floor caters to hairstyling and nail services in a bright, social setting, while the upper floor offers a more private experience with VIP suites, facial and massage rooms, and even a drinks café tucked into the corner.

What sets Twice apart is its full-day pampering philosophy. Guests can indulge in packages that go beyond beauty treatments to include mocktails, light brunch-style fare, and extended wellness sessions. It’s a modern retreat for those who want their self-care to feel like an occasion, not an errand.

In a district known for extravagance, Twice Salon strikes a balance between quiet sophistication and sensory indulgence. It’s not just where people go to look good—it’s where they go to feel entirely looked after.

Photo credits: Twice Salon Instagram. 

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

In a city where beauty is both routine and ritual, Snob Beauty Salon stands out by offering more than surface-level glamour. With two thoughtfully chosen locations—one in the villa-lined calm of Jumeirah and the other in the fast-growing neighborhood of Arjan—Snob brings together indulgence and practicality under one pastel-toned roof.

True to its name, the salon embraces a bold, feminine aesthetic. Blush pinks, floral accents, and soft lighting create an environment that is both Instagrammable and soothing. But it’s not just about appearances. Snob offers a comprehensive menu of services that includes precision nail care, expert hairstyling, full-body massages, traditional hammam rituals, and advanced body treatments—making it a one-stop destination for beauty and wellness.

Its dual-location strategy allows Snob to serve a broad demographic, from longtime residents in the heart of Jumeirah to newer communities in Arjan. Across both branches, the focus remains consistent: attentive service, relaxing interiors, and a seamless blend of traditional and modern treatments.

Snob Beauty Salon may exude playful elegance, but behind the soft hues lies a serious commitment to quality—a reflection of Dubai’s evolving beauty scene, where atmosphere and expertise are expected to go hand in hand.

Photo credits: Snob Beauty Salon Instagram. 

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

In a city where beauty trends move quickly and new salons appear just as fast, few names command the enduring loyalty of Dubai’s residents quite like Sisters Beauty Lounge. With multiple locations across the city—including in Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Jumeirah Beach Residence—the brand has become a fixture of the local beauty landscape, prized for its reliability, efficiency, and range of services.

Founded in 2004, Sisters has steadily expanded its presence while maintaining a strong commitment to quality. Its sleek, modern interiors—tailored to each location—offer a calm, professional environment, whether you're stopping in for a quick manicure or a full day of treatments. Across all branches, clients find the same polished service: expert hairstyling, meticulous nail care, lash and brow enhancements, and an array of body treatments designed for both relaxation and results.

Part of Sisters’ success lies in its strategic accessibility. Situated in Dubai’s most frequented commercial and retail hubs, the lounges cater to busy professionals, mall-goers, and hotel guests alike. Corporate partnerships and loyalty programs further cement its role as a go-to for those seeking consistent excellence without the guesswork.

In a beauty scene that thrives on novelty, Sisters Beauty Lounge is not just a salon—it’s a dependable part of their personal routine.

Photo credits: Sisters Beauty Lounge. 

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Along the sunlit curve of Dubai Marina’s promenade, Pose Salon offers more than just beauty services—it presents a polished fusion of technical expertise and contemporary luxury. Nestled among cafes and high-rise residences, this recently renovated salon has become a destination for discerning clients seeking cutting-edge hair treatments with a view.

Inside, the ambiance is sleek and modern. The space has been outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment, reflecting Pose’s commitment to high-performance beauty. Clean lines, minimalist décor, and natural light create a setting that feels as current as the city itself—tailored for both comfort and social media.

Pose is best known for its precision in hair styling, coloring, and treatments, but it also sets itself apart with Hush, its in-house brand of premium hair extensions. Developed to meet the salon’s own standards for quality and blendability, Hush represents Pose’s deeper investment in innovation and craftsmanship.

Whether for a blowout before a night at the Marina or a transformative hair overhaul, Pose Salon delivers with professionalism and style. It’s a space where technique meets atmosphere—proof that beauty in Dubai is as much about experience as it is about outcome.

Photo credits: Pose Salon Instagram. 

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

In a city that prizes refinement and service, Pastels Salon has long stood as a standard-bearer of luxury beauty in Dubai. With two prominent locations—one along the quiet, villa-lined streets of Jumeirah, the other inside the opulent Ritz-Carlton Hotel on Jumeirah Beach Residence—Pastels has built its reputation on consistency, expertise, and a distinct sense of grandeur.

From the moment clients arrive, the experience is seamless. Valet parking greets visitors at both branches, a small but telling detail in a city where ease is part of the luxury equation. Inside, the salons evoke the atmosphere of a private members’ club—tasteful, immaculate, and quietly regal. Whether you’re seated in a styling chair or reclining in a treatment room, the setting feels designed to elevate even the most routine beauty service.

Founded in 2004, Pastels is especially known for its hairstyling and color work, with a loyal clientele that spans residents and international visitors alike. The salons also offer an extensive menu of beauty treatments, including precision manicures, customized facials, and lash extensions, each carried out by well-trained staff with an eye for detail and discretion.

But beyond the services, it is the salon's ethos—treating every guest as royalty—that has cemented its place in Dubai’s high-end beauty culture. In a city of constant reinvention, Pastels has earned its staying power not through trend-chasing, but through quietly impeccable service.

Photo credits: Pastels Salon.

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

In the sleek heart of Dubai’s Business Bay, where mirrored towers and busy thoroughfares define the skyline, Beige Beauty Salon offers a rare kind of stillness. Tucked inside the Ubora Tower, this boutique salon has quickly established itself as a sanctuary of calm—one that speaks the language of subtlety rather than spectacle.

Founded by skincare specialist Aneta Pszczolkowska, a veteran in the field with more than 15 years of experience, Beige Beauty Salon sets itself apart with a minimalist philosophy rooted in expertise. The focus here is clear: results-driven skincare delivered in an environment that feels more like a modern spa suite than a traditional salon.

Pszczolkowska’s approach is clinical yet warm, offering treatments such as micro-needling, light chemical peels, and bespoke facials tailored to individual skin concerns. Each service is carefully calibrated to target long-term skin health, rather than short-term fixes—an approach that has resonated with Dubai’s increasingly wellness-savvy clientele.

The interior mirrors the ethos of the brand: neutral tones, soft lighting, and a sense of refined quiet that is both rare and intentional. Clients frequently note the salon’s immaculate presentation, along with its knowledgeable, discreet staff who prioritize comfort and professionalism at every step.

In a city known for its maximalism, Beige Beauty Salon is an ode to restraint—where beauty is pursued with care, science, and sophistication. For those seeking more than just a quick glow-up, it offers something far more valuable: trust.

Photo credits: Beige Beauty Salon.

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Nestled within The Wings in Arjan, Dubai, 91 Beauty Salon offers more than just a routine beauty appointment—it delivers a distinctly British take on precision grooming in a space that merges style with substance. Owned and operated by British professionals with extensive training in the UK’s exacting beauty standards, the salon brings a level of rigor and refinement that sets it apart in the city’s crowded self-care landscape.

The moment one steps into 91 Beauty Salon, it’s clear this is not a typical neighborhood establishment. The interior, bathed in white and deep blue tones, is purposefully curated to evoke a serene yet sophisticated ambiance. Full-length mirrors line the salon’s perimeter, while a faux cherry blossom tree—a whimsical centerpiece—adds a touch of elegance and Instagram-ready charm. It’s a setting designed as much for comfort as for aesthetics, and it resonates with a clientele increasingly drawn to experiential environments.

But design is only part of the story. The salon has quickly earned a reputation for its technical expertise, particularly in advanced hair treatments such as balayage and hair extensions. Using premium-grade products and techniques developed in the UK, stylists at 91 take a tailored approach to each client, ensuring that services are not just trendy, but also healthy for the hair and scalp.

Beyond hair, the salon provides a full spectrum of beauty services, including lash extensions, brow shaping, manicures, pedicures, and waxing. Each treatment is delivered with attention to hygiene and detail, reflecting the high standards of British certification. In a region where regulatory oversight can vary, 91’s commitment to UK-based training offers both peace of mind and a mark of distinction.

In a city where beauty salons are as ubiquitous as coffee shops, 91 Beauty Salon stands out not through flash, but through quiet confidence and consistent excellence. For residents of Arjan, Al Barsha, and beyond, it offers a reliable, elevated destination where modern aesthetics meet professional integrity.

Photo credits: 91 Beauty Salon.

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

In the rarefied skies above the Arabian Peninsula, a new definition of luxury is ascending. With 8,755 private jet movements recorded in 2024 alone, Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) has firmly established itself as the nexus of elite aviation in the Middle East, according to Gulf Business.

Dubai’s ultra-high-net-worth travelers are no longer content with first class. Their mode of choice: custom-outfitted Gulfstreams, Bombardier Globals, and the occasional converted Airbus, complete with in-flight private chefs, spa treatments, and even pet suites for purebred companions.

Jet operators like Jetex and ExecuJet cater to these clientele with bespoke services, including interiors adorned with Italian leather, silk bedding, and gold-plated fixtures. Some clients request customized aircraft with personal branding, private bedrooms, and entertainment lounges that rival five-star hotels.

Dubai's strategic location - a crossroads between Europe, Asia, and Africa - has made it a favored base for international jet-setters. The demand for individualized airborne experiences is reshaping global aviation trends, pushing manufacturers and service providers to redefine what personalized air travel means in a post-commercial age.

As with much of life in Dubai, the skies are not the limit - they’re just the beginning.

Photo credits: Jetex. 

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.