When you say ‘Dubai’ the words 'authentic city' do not spring to mind immediately. Some call the city modern and new, full of opportunities, others call it fake. Opinions are divided but one thing is certain: the average Dubaian loves brands and gadgets. Clothing, shoes, bags: if there’s Gucci, Prada or D & G to name but a few, it’s just perfect. But there is one problem: the average resident cannot afford these brands nor or example the newest iPad.
No worries, Dubai has 'Fake City’. No, that's not a pet name for Dubai, but a neighbourhood where you can buy ‘real’ fake stuff. If you're wandering around in the Karama district, you'll soon be approached by salesmen. One will ask you if you want to buy a Rolex watch, the other whether you are looking for a beautiful Burberry bag. Just follow the vendor: trough an alley, into a building, trough a door, another door... And then suddenly you may find yourself standing in a room full of bags. Or a room full of watches and suitcases. Whatever brand you are looking for, it's there. For a fraction of the price of the original. And, according to experienced Karama shopaholics, the quality is quite good.
Of course this is illegal and the police come over to arrest vendors and seize counterfeit goods on a regular basis. But hey, there’s always tomorrow. When the vendors will be waiting for the next customer.
