ExpatAl

Hi all,

Now I've read up a lot on the culture of haggling in the GCC countries but I'm interested to hear your own experience (and successes!) of haggling, especially in Dubai.

Does it widely differ between products/services? Does wasta make a difference? General tips?

Cheers,
Al

DXBtoDOH

Haggling only in the old souks. And rug shops.

99% of shops operates on a fixed price model like the UK.

This is the UAE. Other GCC countries are a bit more traditional but you still don't see much haggling outside a few places.

ExpatAl

I've heard you can haggle in more places? E.g. when buying a second hand motor, renting (reducing the amount of cheques for the year as one way...) and gym membership

DXBtoDOH

People don't think of those as conventional haggling.

You should have been more upfront. I thought you were talking about going into any random shop and haggling, like in the bazaars and souks. The answer is no.

Cars and rents you are free to ask for a reduction, lowball offer or whatever. No different from the UK.

scrubbedexpat141

Got 15% off in the pro shop at a golf club because I asked...never normally do because expect a flat no....but it worked.

DXBtoDOH

It's worth it to ask for a discount at anything that involves a service. Some shops even in Satwa will offer a 'resident's discount' if you ask but you won't be haggling over the amount of the discount.

Millhouse

Basic rule is, unless in a new Dubai area, try negotiate everything if you think it's worth while. Sometimes there is scope for freebies if not off the price.

Discounts can also be had in mall shops if you ask, not all, but more than you think. Even in some of the pharmacies.

Satwa, Karama etc, it's free game on anything and everything.

Miss Ann Thrope

Always ask for a discount and last price before you pay any significant amount. I've got the amount reduced in places like Sharaf DG, Optical stores in malls even for shoes. Always ask; you'll be surprised how often you get something.

ExpatAl

Thanks for the advice all!