Discovering the Secrets of Satwa

A Newbie To The Desert, Polly Checks Out The Secrets Of Satwa

Having lived in Dubai for under a year, I’m still finding my feet – and shelling out cash hand over fist for EVERYTHING! If you want a bargain go to Satwa, seasoned ex-pats say. But I’ve driven past a couple of times and seen nothing more than mobile phone shop and crowds. Then, after yet another mama-in-the-know told me to check it out, I decided to give it another chance. This is what I found:

Read More: The Sassy Mama Mini Guide To Satwa 

Carpets

Whether you want to buy, fix or clean one, Satwa is THE place to go when it comes to carpets (after an unfortunate dog-related incident we had ours made as good as new at Al Madaen carpet trading 04-3454488). But Satwa is also home to top-notch haberdasheries for ribbons, sequins, buttons and a host of other kids craft and costume-related bits and pieces. Organised mamas are already stocking up on National Day dress up items there.

Flowers

Al Hudaiba Street is unofficially known as ‘Plant Street’ (clue’s in the title, mamas!) for anyone looking to get green-fingered at a fraction of the cost of anywhere else in Dubai. There are some amazing little florists (I liked Eden Flowers 056 4017957) although the focus is on flowers rather than arrangements so if you’re looking for neatly tied bouquets, go somewhere else.

Tailors

Dream girl (04 349 5445) is the go-to for well-dressed mamas, but tailors, like the clothes they make, are a matter of personal taste and everyone has their own favourite Satwa seamstress.

Food

And of course, you can’t go to Satwa without visiting Dubai institution Ravi’s (04 331 5353). It’s not fancy – you won’t find silverware (or even glassware – it’s polystyrene cups all the way). What you will find is decent Pakistani and Indian curry (the butter chicken’s our favourite) and a whole meal for under 100 AED. Leaving you more money to spend on the rest of Satwa’s secrets. Yummy!