 Dubai has been called the " shopping capital of the Middle East " . Dubai alone has more than 70 shopping centres , including the world 's largest shopping centre , Dubai Mall . Dubai is also known for the traditional souk districts located on either side of its creek . Traditionally , dhows from East Asia , China , Sri Lanka , and India would discharge their cargo and the goods would be bargained over in the souks adjacent to the docks . Dubai Creek played a vital role in sustaining the life of the community in the city and was the resource which originally drove the economic boom in Dubai . As of September 2013 , Dubai creek has been proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Many boutiques and jewellery stores are also found in the city . Dubai is also referred to as " the City of Gold " as the Gold Souk in Deira houses nearly 250 gold retail shops . 
