Dubai Gold Prices Stay High as Monthly Plans Gain Popularity

Gold is a constant in the investment world, and Dubai continues to lead conversations when it comes to this precious metal. Currently, Dubai’s gold price remains over Dh370 for a gram of 22K gold (and Dh440+ for 24K gold). However, rather than discouraging shoppers, these near-peak prices are inspiring UAE residents to find smart ways to own gold.

One increasingly popular option among gold enthusiasts in the UAE is monthly installment plans offered by leading jewelers. These plans make gold accessible to a larger audience, offering flexibility and strategic advantages amid fluctuating prices.

Monthly Installments to Beat Rising Gold Prices

Over recent months, more UAE shoppers have signed up for installment plans, paying between Dh1,000–Dh2,000 monthly—but some plans allow payments below Dh1,000 to get started. These plans come with a range of benefits, including the ability for customers to redeem their payments in the form of gold coins, bars, or jewelry over a specific period.

According to a retailer offering the service, “Monthly installment plans are the go-to choice for UAE residents, especially since gold hit $3,500 an ounce. Many shoppers use these plans to ‘delay’ buying gold until prices stabilize.”

Added Incentives

Some jewelers even reward their customers for sticking with their plans. For example, a customer who completes a 12-month cycle might receive one month free as a reward or continue extending payments if desired.

“After 12 months, there’s no obligation to purchase,” explained Mandar Khatoo, a Dubai resident. “You can extend your plan by a year or more. This kind of flexibility is what makes these schemes so attractive.”

Attracting Tourists and Non-Residents

Interestingly, it’s not just UAE residents utilizing installment plans. Regular visitors from overseas are also signing up, often using their Dubai visits to strategically build a gold collection. “Rather than making random gold purchases during visits, they build towards specific pieces over time,” shared a retailer. This trend reflects a more refined shopping approach, where buyers turn into ‘shopper-investors.’

Shopper-Investors and the Growing Demand for Gold

For over a year, reports from the World Gold Council and insights from UAE jewelers have highlighted a shift in how people buy gold. Instead of solely focusing on jewelry, buyers are now investing heavily in gold bars and coins. These options are perceived as safer, more flexible investments, particularly as global gold prices keep climbing.

This shift aligns with data from search engines, as James Campion of eToro noted, “Google searches for ‘Buy Gold’ from UAE-based users have hit a five-year peak. It’s clear that consumer confidence in gold as a safe-haven asset remains strong despite its high price point.”

Gold Outperforms Competing Investments

Gold’s appeal has only grown as the Dubai gold rate surged past significant milestones like Dh300 in October 2024. Within just six months, prices rose by over 30%, outperforming most other investment assets during the same period. It’s no surprise shoppers are doubling down on gold purchases.

“Even with prices at Dh373 for 22K, UAE shopper-investors feel confident they’re making the right financial choice,” Campion added. “The soaring prices reinforce gold’s value as both an asset and an investment in today’s market.”

Why Monthly Plans Work

By spreading payments out over several months, UAE buyers can absorb the cost of gold more easily. It also gives them the opportunity to wait for potentially lower prices, adding both flexibility and control to their purchasing habits.

These plans have essentially removed the barrier to entry for gold ownership during periods of rapid price growth. The structure of these schemes ensures that gold enthusiasts, whether residents or frequent visitors, remain active participants in the global gold market.

What’s Next for Gold Buyers in the UAE?

With the gold rate holding steady and the demand for installment plans growing, UAE gold buyers are creating a new standard for how to invest smartly in precious metals. Whether you’re a first-time buyer looking to ease into gold ownership or a seasoned investor, the flexibility of these schemes makes them an appealing choice.

For those keeping a close eye on prices, installment plans offer a way to secure gold at your pace while waiting for ideal rates. The gold market may remain unpredictable, but for shopper-investors in Dubai, one thing is certain: they’re not waiting to be left behind.