What’s On has details about the best online shops, marketplaces and handicraft goods in the UAE, including Ideyna.com and Little Majlis. 

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Ideyna.com

A UAE version of Etsy, this online marketplace sees artists, crafters and makers based in the country sell a variety of handmade goods. From art, homewares, clothing and toys – items are unique and one-of-a-kind. From kitsch (R2-D2 inspired shoes, anyone?) to the exquisite (hand-painted abayas), you can find a bit of everything here.
ideyna.com

ideyna

Art’Mia Handicraft Market

Organised by French expats and artisans Marie Cousergue and Anne Mittou, this bi-annual handicraft market features more than 60 exhibitors selling ceramics, soaps, jewellery, accessories and more. The market is typically hosted in the Fotouh Al Khair Centre (the Marks & Spencer building) and proceeds are donated to the Special Care Centre. The next edition is in November.
artmia.collectif@gmail.com

Little Majlis

Custom, quirky and handmade products are available from this online shopping platform. Featuring a selection of Gulf-based small brands and designers, there is clothing, soaps, furniture and more for sale. Some of the Abu Dhabi-based merchants on the site include children’s fashion brand Tutubug, upcycled home accessories from Birds & Dandelions and organic toiletries from Love My Skincare.
littlemajlis.com

Little Majlis

La Loupe

This Abu Dhabi-based fashion collective hosts one-day pop-up shops in the capital. It works with more than 50 local brands (Bait Zait skincare, India Circus textiles and Pearlesque jewellers) – so you can pick up leather goods, food and fashion.
facebook.com/laloupeauh

Sheraton Flea Market

Shop for treasures and trinkets on the cheap at this rummage sale hosted by Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel And Resort. All funds from exhibitors currently go to support an impoverished Sri Lankan children’s home. The next edition of this flea market is tentatively scheduled for September.
sheratonabudhabihotel.com

THREE SHOPS TO TRY

Al Khaznah Tannery

Check out this online boutique where you can buy locally sourced and made camel leather handbags. What’s On is a fan of the hair-on leathers, which is a bit like a blanket and a purse in one, but there are also more traditional styles available.
alkhaznahboutique.com

Sougha

Pick up a phone cover, tablet case or bag by Emirati artisans as part of an entrepreneurial initiative. The social initiative is employing women as well as preserving traditional weaving methods. Sold in various locations including World Trade Center Souk.
sougha.ae

Khaadi

This ready-made Pakistani fashion brand in Al Wahda Mall stocks traditional and on-trend South Asian outfits for women. In addition to seasonal tunics, the shop stocks embroidered material, leggings, dresses, scarves and patchwork handbags.
khaadi.com