Is gold losing its lustre with UAE's younger buyers?
For generations, gold has represented more than jewellery for families in the UAE. It serves as a gift, inheritance and, for many women, a future investment. However, younger buyers’ relationship with gold is evolving. Though it remains significant, millennials and Gen Z focus less on quantity and more on wearability. Retailers in the UAE say heavy traditional pieces still have their place,…
Gold has long held significance in the United Arab Emirates, serving as a symbol of jewellery, inheritance, and investment for families. However, the relationship between younger UAE buyers and gold is changing. While it still holds importance, millennials and Generation Z are gravitating towards wearability and design over quantity.
Retailers in the UAE report that traditional heavy pieces remain relevant for special occasions like weddings, but younger customers lean towards lighter, contemporary pieces that suit their wardrobes, budgets, and lifestyles.
Younger UAE citizens like Maha Ali purchase gold occasionally, preferring smaller, lighter pieces for daily wear. For her, gold remains an investment while also being a wearable accessory. Amreen Iqbal, founder of Piece of You in Dubai, has observed a growing trend among younger customers opting for lighter, more versatile pieces that can be layered and styled in various ways. She notes a shift from gold being reserved for special occasions to it becoming an everyday possession.
Lighter chains, rings, bracelets, and pendants are favored by younger buyers because they retain gold's financial and emotional value while being more practical for work, social events, and travel. Amalin Dhanak, managing director of Kanz Jewels, highlights that despite higher gold prices, young customers are purchasing smaller, more affordable pieces. The shift towards lighter-weight jewellery is driven by the desire for a personal, versatile piece that can be worn in different settings without being a burden.
Despite the changing preferences, family and tradition still play a significant role in younger buyers' decisions to purchase gold. Sara A, a student in Dubai, began wearing gold to connect with her family's heritage. Her jewellery has been passed down through generations, symbolizing both family legacy and financial security. Tasmiyah Anwar, another student, prefers 18-karat gold, viewing her pieces as both accessories and investments, hoping to expand her collection as she starts working.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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