Gold has long been a symbol of wealth and security in the UAE. From shoppers at Dubai’s Gold Souk to investors looking for a hedge against inflation, the demand for the yellow metal never slows. Recently, gold prices in the UAE hit a major milestone: 24K gold has crossed AED 450 per gram for the first time in history.
This surge has left both jewellery buyers and investors wondering: what’s next for gold in the UAE? Will it keep rising, or is a correction around the corner? Let’s take a closer look.
Current Gold Prices in the UAE
As of late September 2025, here are the average retail rates across the Emirates:
- 24K gold: AED 452–454 per gram
- 22K gold: AED 417–420 per gram
- 21K gold: AED 399–401 per gram
- 18K gold: AED 342–344 per gram
These prices reflect some of the highest levels ever recorded in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. For perspective, in early 2024, 24K gold was trading near AED 240 per gram. That means prices have nearly doubled in less than two years.
Why Has Gold Crossed AED 450?
- Several factors have combined to push UAE gold prices past this milestone:
1. Global Gold Rally
International gold has surged above $3700 per ounce, supported by strong demand from central banks and a weaker US dollar. Because UAE gold prices are pegged to global markets, local buyers immediately feel these increases.
2. Federal Reserve Rate Expectations
Markets are expecting the US Federal Reserve to begin cutting interest rates in late 2025. Lower rates weaken the dollar and make gold more attractive, which boosts both global and UAE prices.
3. Geopolitical Tensions
Ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, including energy market instability, has increased investor appetite for safe-haven assets like gold.
4. Local Seasonal Demand
The UAE sees spikes in gold buying during festivals, weddings, and tourist seasons. This year, despite higher costs, demand for jewellery and bullion remains strong, adding pressure to already rising prices.
Will Gold Reach AED 480 or Higher?
Now that gold has broken the AED 450 barrier, experts believe the next target could be AED 480 per gram for 24K.
- Bullish scenario: If global gold holds above $3700/oz and the Fed confirms rate cuts, UAE gold could climb toward AED 485–490 per gram in the next few weeks.
- Bearish scenario: A sudden strengthening of the US dollar or easing geopolitical tensions could trigger a pullback, bringing prices closer to AED 430 per gram.
Overall, the momentum remains upward, and many analysts say it’s not a question of if gold reaches AED 480, but when.
What This Means for Jewellery Buyers
For everyday buyers in Dubai and other Emirates, crossing AED 450 has made jewellery shopping more expensive. But the decision to buy now or wait depends on your situation:
- Buying for an event (wedding, gift, festival): Waiting for big drops may not be realistic. It’s safer to purchase now and lock in rates.
- Flexible buyers: Watch for small daily dips of AED 5–10 per gram, which can save you when buying in bulk.
- Consider karat options: 22K and 21K are slightly cheaper alternatives to 24K and are still widely preferred for jewellery in the UAE.
- Always compare shops: Making charges vary between jewellers, so you can save even if the gold price itself doesn’t change.
What Investors Should Know
For investors, this milestone signals that gold is still a powerful hedge. However, a smart approach is essential:
- Buy bars and coins rather than jewellery to avoid high making charges.
- Diversify your portfolio — don’t put all your money in gold. Balance with real estate, stocks, or ETFs.
- Track global indicators like US interest rates, inflation, and central bank buying. These directly impact gold’s next move.
- Think long-term: Gold’s value has held steady across decades. Even if short-term corrections occur, long-term investors generally benefit.
How to Track UAE Gold Prices Daily
Check goldpriceinuae.com for daily updated rates in AED.
Follow the Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group (DGJG): Their official prices are updated multiple times a day.
Use mobile apps: Many jewellers and trading platforms provide live updates.
Read global news: Fed policy announcements, inflation data, and currency shifts often lead gold price movements.
Conclusion
Gold in the UAE has officially crossed AED 450 per gram for 24K, setting a historic record. While this milestone makes gold more expensive for jewellery buyers, it also reinforces its reputation as a reliable investment during uncertain times.
Analysts believe that AED 480 is now the next likely target, especially if global economic conditions continue to favour the precious metal.
For buyers, the best advice is simple: purchase when you need it and shop smartly to reduce costs. For investors, gold remains a strong long-term option, though patience and diversification are key.
Whether you’re buying for beauty or investment, one thing is clear: gold continues to shine in the UAE’s financial landscape.