So you’ve met “The One” and want to pop the question, but aren’t sure where the best places are to buy an engagement ring in Abu Dhabi.
Purchasing a piece of finger bling in the capital can be a lot cheaper than in other parts of the world (as much as half the price than in the UK, we’re reliably told) and the most obvious places to begin your search for that supreme sparkler would surely be the Abu Dhabi’s Gold Souk.
But that isn’t your only option, because there are plenty of jewellers – both local and international – with stores dotted around Abu Dhabi who will offer you the ring of your dreams. Here are a few of the places that have really caught our eye…
Bvlgari
The Bvlgari story started way back in 1884 when the Greek silversmith Sotirios Bulgari moved to Rome and opened his first shop. Now one of the most instantly recognisable jewellery and luxury goods brands in the world, Bvlgari definitely knows how to fill its clientele with amore. Its range of engagement rings vary from the traditionally stunning to marvellous modern-day classics. Yes, these guys don’t sell their wares cheaply, but all that tax-free living must have done your bank balance some good, right? And who knows, maybe the brand will give you a discount on a honeymoon at one of its five-star resorts?
For the most romantic movies to watch click here.
Four Abu Dhabi locations including Etihad Towers: open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri 3pm-11pm. bulgari.com/en-ae (call 02 681 8828).
Damas Jewellery
Damas can trace its roots to 1907, beginning life as a small goldsmith operation up the road in Dubai. After opening its first shop in our neighbour’s Gold Souk in 1959, it began expanding its diamond-cutting operation in the 1970s, producing wonderful wedding bands and engagement rings that remain its forte to this day. As well as its own cracking collections, Damas stocks international brands such as Djula, Fope and Fabergé. With 16 stores across the capital, an expert helping hand will never be far away.
For more about getting married in Abu Dhabi click here.
Various locations including Mazyad Mall: open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri 10am-11pm. damasjewellery.com (800 32627).
Jawhara Jewellery
Having founded the Damas dynasty, the Abdullah family decided to sell up and create a new venture, Jawhara Jewellery, in 2014. Led by three brothers from the fourth generation of the clan’s jewellers, it is one of the fastest-growing Emirati brands going with more than 185 outlets across the region. Jawhara retains the Abdullahs’ high standards, bringing both traditional design alongside more innovative creations that have helped it build up a huge customer base. Its Forevermark engagement rings are a particular highlight of its extensive collection, making those diamonds really dance in the light.
For top date night ideas under Dhs500 click here.
At 13 locations across Abu Dhabi, including Hamdan Street: open daily 10am-9m. jawharajewellery.com (050 752 8012).
Joyalukkas
Another businessman to follow in the footsteps of his father, Alukkas Joy began on the path to a $2 billion fortune with his first jewellery shop that he opened in Abu Dhabi in 1987. Not many jewellers have been given official royal recognition here in the UAE, but Joyalukkas is the proud owner of a Dubai Quality Appreciation Award from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. That seal of approval has helped the company become one of the most trusted in the industry. And when it comes to picking out the perfect engagement ring, Joyalukkas has all the expertise to ensure it’s a massive “yes” from the woman that melts your heart.
For picture-perfect engagement and romantic spots in the UAE click here.
Various locations including Shabia, Musaffah: open Sat-Wed 10am-10.30pm, Fri 10am-noon, 2.30pm-10.30pm. eshop.joyalukkas.com (04 252 2900).
Sarky Jewelry
Founded in 1955 by the visionary George Sarky and now run by his son Joe and wife Riwa, Sarky is a diamond expert and the business goes the extra mile to make the woman in your life feel super special. The stand-out feature is they offer patrons the chance to buy exclusive one-piece-only designs, meaning you will never rock up to a club wearing the same rocks as all the other ladies. Riwa has certainly given the brand that woman’s touch, her ethos being that fine jewellery should be admired and not hidden away in a box. A favourite of Lebanese pop singers Cyrine Abdelnour and Yara, clear your throat, pull out your Sarky sparkler and say those special words…
For top staycation ideas click here.
Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. Marina Mall, instagram.com/sarkyjewelry/?hl=en (02 626 2333).
Tiffany & Co
It’s amazing to think this giant of the jewellery world actually began life primarily as a stationery shop with a few “fancy goods” that would bring the big bucks in (the company sold for a whopping $15.8 billion earlier this year). Worn worldwide by movie stars and royalty, Tiffany & Co is widely regarded as one of the finest diamond purveyors on the planet – so much so that it even has its own setting. Quality this high doesn’t come cheap, but we actually can’t think of any of our female friends who could possibly snub a sparkler from Tiffany’s. Bust out that famous blue box and she’ll surely accept.
For all about Abu Dhabi shopping click here.
Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. Marina Mall and The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, tiffany.co.uk/ (02 681 4477/02 692 9000).
Love all things weddings? Say Yes to the Dress Arabia is casting brides for its new UAE show. Click here for more.
