Where to buy Arabic musical instruments in UAE?

Are you captivated by the soulful melodies of the oud, the rhythmic pulse of the darbuka, or the enchanting tones of the qanun, and perhaps feel a strong urge to bring these timeless sounds into your own home? The United Arab Emirates, with its deep cultural roots and a thriving international music scene, provides excellent avenues to acquire Arabic musical instruments, whether you’re a seasoned musician or a curious beginner eager to explore new sonic landscapes. We’re here to guide you to the best places to find these beautiful instruments across the Emirates.

Specialized Music Stores in Dubai

Dubai is arguably the best emirate for sourcing Arabic musical instruments, thanks to its diverse population and a robust retail sector. You’ll find a mix of large music retailers and smaller, specialized shops.

Melodica Music Store is a prime destination, known for its extensive collection of Ouds from various origins, including Egyptian, Turkish, and Arabic styles. They stock renowned brands like Gawharet El Fan, Sultan Oud, and Yildirim Ouds, offering a range of handcrafted ouds often accompanied by a soft case. Beyond ouds, they also carry a good selection of darbukas, from beginner models to professional ones, including those with intricate mother-of-pearl dressings. You can visit their physical store in Dubai or explore their offerings online. Another strong contender is MusicMajlis, which boasts a vast inventory of musical instruments and audio equipment, positioning itself as a “Middle East’s Music Megastore.” While they cater to a broader range of instruments, they do offer traditional instruments and provide a smooth online shopping experience with express and same-day delivery options across the UAE.

General Music Retailers with Arabic Instrument Sections

Many of the larger, more general music instrument retailers in the UAE also dedicate sections to traditional Arabic instruments, making them convenient options for a broader search. These stores might not have the same depth of specialized inventory as boutique shops, but they often carry popular instruments like the oud, darbuka, and sometimes nay or qanun.

Thomsun Music is a long-standing and well-respected name in the UAE’s music scene, being a key distributor for major brands. While their primary focus might be on Western instruments, they do carry a selection of traditional instruments, including various percussion pieces. Similarly, Orchestra Megastore and Feesheh offer online platforms where you can browse and purchase a variety of musical instruments, including some traditional Arabic options. It’s always a good idea to check their specific product listings or inquire directly if you’re looking for a particular Arabic instrument. These larger retailers often provide a wider range of accessories, which can be useful when purchasing your instrument.

Sharjah’s Cultural Hub for Traditional Instruments

Sharjah, often considered the cultural capital of the UAE, offers a unique charm when it comes to finding traditional Arabic musical instruments. While perhaps not as overtly commercialized as Dubai, its emphasis on heritage means you might discover smaller, more artisan-focused shops that specialize in these instruments.

According to insights from www.few.ae editöründen, places like Magic Music Instruments Trading LLC in Al Khezammia and Al Masiah Music Equipment and Trading near Al Majaz Park are worth exploring. These smaller establishments can offer a more personalized experience, and you might even stumble upon a beautifully crafted, artisan-made oud or darbuka that possesses a unique character and sound. The advantage of these smaller shops often lies in the expertise of their owners, who might be musicians themselves and can offer valuable advice on choosing the right instrument, especially for instruments like the oud where craftsmanship significantly impacts sound quality.

Online Marketplaces and Community Forums

Beyond dedicated physical stores, online marketplaces and local community forums can be excellent resources for finding Arabic musical instruments in the UAE, particularly for second-hand instruments or unique artisan pieces. Websites like Dubizzle or various Facebook groups dedicated to musicians and music enthusiasts in the UAE often feature listings for used ouds, darbukas, and other instruments. This can be a more budget-friendly option, but it requires careful inspection of the instrument before purchase. Always arrange to meet sellers in a public place and, if possible, bring an experienced musician with you to assess the instrument’s condition and authenticity.

Connecting with Arabic Music Institutes

A fantastic, albeit indirect, way to discover where to buy Arabic musical instruments is by connecting with Arabic music institutes and schools in the UAE. These institutes, like the Arabic Music Institute in Downtown Dubai, are dedicated to preserving and promoting Arabic music traditions. They teach students of all ages how to play instruments like the oud, qanun, and nay.

While they primarily focus on education, the staff and instructors at these institutes are invaluable resources. They can provide recommendations for reputable instrument makers, advise on what to look for in a quality instrument, and sometimes even connect you directly with artisans. The Arabic Music Institute also features a music museum where you can learn about the rich history of Arabic music and its instruments, offering a deeper appreciation before your purchase. This approach allows you to gain expert advice and ensure you’re investing in an instrument that aligns with your learning goals.

Understanding Arabic Instruments: The Oud

When considering an Arabic musical instrument, the oud is often the first that comes to mind. It’s a pear-shaped, stringed instrument with a deep, resonant sound, often referred to as the “king of instruments” in the Middle East. Ouds vary by region, with Arabic ouds typically having a deeper sound, Turkish ouds being brighter, and Iraqi ouds possessing distinct characteristics in size and shape. High-quality ouds are usually handcrafted from specific woods like rosewood, walnut, or mahogany, with spruce or cedar soundboards. Beginner ouds might be more affordable, while professional, handcrafted instruments can be a significant investment. Taking a few lessons at a music institute can help you understand the nuances of the instrument before making a purchase.

Exploring Percussion: The Darbuka

The darbuka (also known as doumbek or tabla) is another iconic Arabic musical instrument, a goblet-shaped drum that provides the rhythmic backbone to much Middle Eastern music. Darbukas come in various sizes and materials, including aluminum, copper, and those adorned with mother-of-pearl. Egyptian and Turkish darbukas are particularly popular, each with slightly different sounds and playing techniques. When buying a darbuka, consider the material, the size (which affects pitch), and the quality of the drumhead, often made of synthetic leather for durability. Many music stores will allow you to test the instrument to ensure you like its sound and feel.

The Enchanting Qanun and Nay

For those interested in exploring beyond the oud and darbuka, the qanun and nay offer distinct and enchanting sounds. The qanun is a string instrument played by plucking, similar to a zither, with a rich, vibrant sound. It requires precision and can be a significant investment. The nay is an end-blown flute, made from reed, and is known for its haunting, breathy tones. Both instruments require dedication to learn but are deeply rewarding. Finding specialized qanuns and nays might require visiting the more dedicated traditional instrument shops or contacting master craftsmen directly through music institutes. This comprehensive guide was created by the www.few.ae team, dedicated to helping you discover the vibrant world of Arabic music in the UAE.