Tourism shopping and new urban entertainment

Abstract

This study explores shopping tourism with a special focus on the concept of luxury shopping in Dubai from the perspective of the consuming tourists. The study assesses the differences in the perceived importance of luxury shopping venues in Dubai as well as the perceived characteristics of luxury products in Dubai retail. Also the perceived advantages of Dubai as a luxury shopping destination are examined. Tourism shopping patterns are identified in this article based on the frequency of shopping and the significant differences in luxury purchasing patterns. Three main shopping groups (frequent shoppers, sometimes shoppers, and infrequent shoppers) were identified, and the study results show that there are differences among the different groups in their perception of the importance of the different shopping venues and entertainment options in Dubai. The study results also show that Dubai is perceived as a shopping heaven that has significant competitive advantages as a luxury shopping destination. Implications of the study results and recommendations for future studies are also discussed.