Need a bespoke suit measured to fit someone else perfectly? Or a sterling silver strawberry fork perhaps? You think you don’t, but flea markets can change the way people feel about obscure objects. Twirl those slender prongs by their dainty handle and, suddenly, other strawberry-eating tools (opposable thumbs, for example) become barbaric by comparison.
But one person’s strawberry fork is another’s mink-lined overcoat, which is another’s dented tin moneybox or scratched vinyl collection. Flea markets exist to create a marketplace for people of vastly divergent tastes and interests. And considering that the population of Abu Dhabi is growing to include an even more vibrant mix of people, cultures and traditions, it was only a matter of time before the first flea markets sprung up.
Launched in November last year, Sarah’s Flea Market has grown in both size and popularity – what began as a bring ‘n’ buy sale held at Sarah’s house with the help of Abu Dhabi Mums has now turned into a regular event. As Sarah explains, ‘The flea market gives people the opportunity to sell and buy everything used but also new, from household items, furniture, textiles, ceramics, electrical equipment, toys, games, books, DVDs, clothes, antiques and accessories…you’ll also meet like-minded people and make great friendships.’
With a bag of loose change and a burning desire to find that ‘golden nugget’ – that rare antique, perhaps, or something wonderfully kitsch and designer – we paid Sarah’s Flea Market a visit. Held in Mangrove Village (the location of each market changes every couple of months according to the number of sellers involved), the market was full to bursting when we arrived, late, on a Saturday afternoon in January. A vast array of second-hand children’s toys, books and clothing was interspersed by stallholders selling all things ‘new’, from arts & crafts to speciality cupcakes and even sushi (carefully packed in cooler boxes and chiller bags, you’ll be glad to read).
For those looking for vintage designer clothing and accessories, there wasn’t much, but the odd Dior, Gucci and Chanel clutch bag from circa 1980 caught our eye, as did a stall selling new womenswear from an Italian label – stand-out pieces included a stunning floral print cocoon dress that looked remarkably similar to the much sought-after Erdem SS10 version. Yes, buying new kind of defeats the purpose of hunting the racks and rails of a flea market for that special find, but, nevertheless, what you discover is certainly still unique.
A couple of books, a bottle of neon orange nail varnish and a beaded bracelet later and we’d definitely caught the flea market buzz. For those who have become desensitized by the two-option fashion range offered by the UAE’s shiny malls (trend-led high-street or luxury designer), a flea market provides inspiration for the creative, individual dresser. And if you’ve got a spare room overflowing with unwanted possessions, grab your money belt and join the sellers. Prices for a plot range between Dhs60 and Dhs100 and, if needed, Sarah can provide clothes rails and tables for a small fee.
‘There is nothing that people can’t sell, unless it’s something against any religion, or if it’s something against animal rights. I always make it two thirds used items and one third brand new items. And there is always either a charity box where people can put items they wish to donate or a money collection – at the last flea market the proceeds went to Feline Friends (supporting stray cats).’
As Sarah’s Flea Market continues to grow at pace, the quality and range of items on offer can only get better, so save money on the mall trawls and bag yourself a real bargain.
For more information on Sarah’s Flea Market, dates and venues visit www.fleamarketuae.com. The next event will be on March 2, for women only.
Further afield
Dubai Flea Market Al Safa Park (monthly). Next event March 6, 8am-3pm. Visit www.dubai-fleamarket.com for further details.
Al Qasba Arts & Crafts Market Sharjah (Fridays twice monthly), visit www.alqasbamarket.com for further details.
Dubai Designer Market, Jumeirah Beach Park Plaza, visit www.dubai-fleamarket.com for further details.
