Complete Guide Malabar Gold and Diamonds UAE

When residents and visitors across the UAE search for trusted jewellery, one name consistently comes to the top: Malabar Gold and Diamonds. With its glittering showrooms stretching from Dubai’s Karama neighbourhood to Abu Dhabi’s Mazyad Mall, Malabar Gold has become more than just a retail destination. It is a cultural institution for millions of South Asian expatriates and an increasingly popular choice among Emiratis and international shoppers alike.

Founded in 1993 in Kozhikode, Kerala, India, Malabar Gold has grown into one of the largest jewellery retail groups in the world. The brand operates over 350 showrooms across more than 12 countries, with a particularly strong footprint across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and beyond. In the UAE alone, the chain maintains dozens of showrooms spread across all seven emirates.

Whether you are searching for today’s 22k gold rate at Malabar Gold, looking for a specific showroom address, or curious about the brand’s history and ownership, this complete guide covers it all. It is designed to answer every question a shopper, investor, or first-time visitor would type into Google before stepping through those gold-framed doors.

This article covers the full history of Malabar Gold and Diamonds, what it is best known for, its complete UAE showroom directory, digital services, pricing philosophy, and an honest comparison with its main competitors. Read on for the most comprehensive overview of Malabar Gold in the UAE available online.

The History of Malabar Gold

The story of Malabar Gold and Diamonds begins in 1993 in the port city of Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala, India. The brand was founded by M.P. Ahammed, a visionary entrepreneur who recognised that the gold jewellery retail market in Kerala was fragmented, with consumers having limited access to certified, trustworthy, and standardised gold products.

M.P. Ahammed set out to create a jewellery retail experience grounded in transparency, quality certification, and customer trust. The original concept was straightforward: offer hallmarked gold and certified diamonds at fair prices, inside modern showrooms staffed by trained professionals. This was a significant departure from the traditional bazaar-style jewellery shopping that dominated the market at the time.

 

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 From its single founding showroom in Kozhikode, the brand expanded rapidly across Kerala during the late 1990s and early 2000s. The strong demand from Kerala’s large Non-Resident Indian (NRI) community, particularly from Gulf countries, gave Malabar Gold a natural launchpad for international expansion. Families sending remittances back to Kerala would often visit Malabar Gold showrooms in the Gulf to purchase jewellery for weddings, festivals, and investments.

The brand’s entry into the UAE came in the early 2000s, driven by the large Keralite and broader South Asian diaspora living across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. The UAE showrooms were met with immediate enthusiasm. The familiar brand name, trusted quality, and culturally sensitive designs resonated deeply with NRI communities who had grown up purchasing Malabar Gold back in India.

Key milestones in the brand’s history include its expansion into Saudi Arabia, which gave it access to one of the world’s largest gold retail markets. The brand later expanded into Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States, cementing its position as a truly global jewellery group. Each expansion was accompanied by the same founding promise: BIS-hallmarked gold, certified diamonds, and transparent pricing.

In 2012, Malabar Gold and Diamonds was recognised as one of the top jewellery retail brands in India and the Gulf. By 2020, the group had crossed a significant milestone, reporting annual revenue figures that placed it among the top five jewellery retail chains in the world by turnover. Today, with over 350 showrooms and a growing digital presence, the brand is a dominant force in gold and diamond retail across the GCC and beyond.

What is Malabar Gold and Diamonds Known For?

At its core, Malabar Gold and Diamonds has built its reputation on four pillars: quality assurance, transparent pricing, design diversity, and customer trust. Here is what sets it apart from competitors in the UAE and globally.

• BIS Hallmarked and Certified Gold: Every piece of gold jewellery sold at Malabar Gold is hallmarked under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification framework, giving customers assurance of purity.
• GIA-Certified Diamonds: Diamonds are certified by reputable international bodies including the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), ensuring transparency in cut, clarity, colour, and carat weight.
• Design Range: Malabar Gold offers one of the widest collections of gold jewellery designs in the UAE, ranging from traditional South Indian bridal sets and antique-style pieces to contemporary lightweight collections designed for everyday wear.
• Transparent Gold Rates: The chain publishes its daily gold rates prominently in showrooms and on its website, building consumer trust around one of the most price-sensitive categories in retail.
• Malabar Plate: The Karama branch in Dubai, popularly associated with the surrounding food and retail hub known informally as the Malabar Plate area, has become a cultural landmark for South Asian shoppers in Dubai.
• Awards and Recognition: Malabar Gold has received numerous awards including recognition from the World Gold Council and multiple regional retail awards across the GCC.
• Loyalty Program: The brand operates a structured gold savings scheme that allows customers to invest small monthly amounts toward a jewellery purchase, making high-value items more accessible.

The brand’s consistent quality standards and its cultural sensitivity to the tastes of South Asian, Arab, and international customers are what keep millions of shoppers returning year after year.

Specialties and Offerings

Malabar Gold and Diamonds operates as a full-range jewellery retailer. Its product portfolio covers gold, diamonds, silver, platinum, and a variety of gemstone-studded pieces. Here is a detailed breakdown of what shoppers can expect to find.

Gold Jewellery

Gold jewellery remains the flagship category. Malabar Gold offers pieces in 18k, 21k, and 22k gold, catering to buyers across different budgetary and cultural preferences. Collections include bridal sets, necklaces, bangles, rings, earrings, and chains. The brand’s designs draw from South Indian, North Indian, Arab, and contemporary Western aesthetics, making it one of the most diverse gold retailers in the UAE.

Diamond Jewellery

The diamond category has grown significantly in recent years. Malabar Gold offers solitaire rings, diamond pendants, tennis bracelets, and full bridal diamond sets. All diamonds are accompanied by internationally recognised certificates. The brand’s “Ethnix” and “Era” collections cater to younger consumers looking for sleek, modern diamond designs.

Silver and Platinum

A growing range of silver jewellery and platinum bands is available, particularly for couples seeking wedding rings and everyday contemporary pieces.

Antique and Heritage Collections

Malabar Gold’s antique collections replicate traditional temple jewellery styles from South India and are particularly popular during wedding seasons and festivals such as Onam, Diwali, and Eid.

Investment Gold

For customers interested in gold as an investment vehicle, Malabar Gold and Diamonds offers gold coins and bars in various denominations. These are sold at market-linked rates and come with purity certification. The brand’s Gold Savings Scheme is a structured plan that allows customers to deposit monthly installments and redeem the accumulated value toward a jewellery purchase, often with an added bonus month from the brand.

Pricing

Prices are determined by the daily gold rate, the making charge (craftsmanship cost), and any stone or setting charges. Making charges vary by collection and design complexity. Malabar Gold is generally positioned in the mid-to-premium segment. Customers are advised to check the official website or visit a showroom for current rates and making charges, as these fluctuate daily with gold market movements.

All Malabar Gold and Diamonds Showrooms in the UAE

Malabar Gold operates one of the largest jewellery showroom networks in the UAE. The following is a comprehensive listing of known showrooms by emirate. Branch information is subject to change. Visit the official www.malabargoldanddiamonds.com website or contact customer service for the most current list of locations.

Dubai Showrooms

Abu Dhabi Showrooms

Sharjah Showrooms

• Sharjah City Centre Branch | Sharjah City Centre Mall, Al Wahda Street, Sharjah
• Rolla Branch | Rolla Square, Sharjah | Full showroom with bridal collection
• Al Nahda Branch | Al Nahda Area, Sharjah
• Mega Mall Branch | Mega Mall, Airport Road, Sharjah

Ajman Showrooms

• Ajman City Centre Branch | Ajman City Centre Mall, Ajman | Full showroom
• Ajman Downtown Branch | Gold Souk Area, Ajman

Ras Al Khaimah

• RAK Mall Branch | RAK Mall, Ras Al Khaimah | Full showroom
• Manar Mall Branch | Manar Mall, Ras Al Khaimah

Fujairah

• Fujairah City Centre Branch | Fujairah City Centre, Fujairah | Full showroom

Umm Al Quwain

• UAQ Branch | City Road Area, Umm Al Quwain

Important note: Branch information is subject to change. Always verify current addresses, phone numbers, and opening hours on the official Malabar Gold and Diamonds website at www.malabargoldanddiamonds.com or by calling the brand’s UAE customer service line before visiting.

Online Presence and Digital Services

Malabar Gold and Diamonds has invested heavily in its digital presence to serve the growing number of customers who prefer to browse, compare, and even purchase jewellery online before visiting a showroom.

• Official Website: malabargoldanddiamonds.com. The website features the full product catalogue, daily gold rates, showroom locator, and the ability to book an appointment at your nearest branch.
• Mobile App: The Malabar Gold and Diamonds app is available on both iOS and Android. Key features include live gold rate tracking, wishlist creation, Gold Savings Scheme management, and branch locator.
• Online Shopping: Customers can browse and purchase selected jewellery items online through the website. Delivery to UAE addresses is available for online orders, subject to terms and conditions.
• Instagram: @malabargoldanddiamonds. One of the most followed jewellery brands in the region, the account showcases new collections, bridal lookbooks, and promotional campaigns.
• Facebook and TikTok: Active accounts with regular content including design showcases, educational videos on gold certification, and festival promotions.
• Customer Service: Customers can reach Malabar Gold UAE through the branch-specific phone numbers listed above, through the website’s live chat feature, and through WhatsApp for selected services.
• Delivery Platforms: At present, Malabar Gold and Diamonds operates primarily through its own website for online transactions rather than third-party delivery platforms, given the high-value and security-sensitive nature of jewellery retail.

Pricing and Value for Money

One of the most searched queries related to Malabar Gold is around pricing, specifically the today 22k gold rate at Malabar Gold UAE. Here is a practical overview of how the brand’s pricing model works.

• Gold Rate: The price of gold at Malabar Gold is linked to the daily international market rate and is updated every morning in line with the Dubai Gold and Jewellery Group’s published rates. The 22k gold rate at Malabar Gold in the UAE is competitive with other major retailers and is published daily on their website and displayed prominently in all showrooms.
• Making Charges: In addition to the gold rate, customers pay a making charge that covers the craftsmanship involved in creating each piece. Making charges vary by collection. Machine-made chains tend to carry lower making charges than handcrafted bridal sets.
• Diamond Pricing: Diamond jewellery is priced based on the 4Cs (cut, clarity, colour, and carat) in addition to the gold or platinum setting. Certificates from GIA or other recognised bodies accompany each diamond purchase.
• Price Range: Malabar Gold is positioned in the mid-to-premium segment. Simple gold chains or earrings are accessible to budget-conscious buyers, while elaborate bridal sets and diamond collections occupy the premium end of the spectrum.
• Loyalty Schemes: The Gold Savings Scheme allows customers to pay a fixed amount monthly over 11 months, with the brand contributing a bonus amount in the final month toward a jewellery purchase.
• Payment Methods: Malabar Gold UAE accepts cash, all major credit and debit cards, and contactless payment methods including Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.
• Discounts and Promotions: The brand runs seasonal promotions during Eid, Diwali, Onam, and other key festivals, often offering waived making charges or special buyback rates on gold.

For the most current and accurate gold rate, customers should visit the official website or check the Malabar Gold and Diamonds app, where the live UAE gold rate is updated daily.

Who is Malabar Gold and Diamonds Best Suited For?

Malabar Gold and Diamonds serves a broad and diverse customer base in the UAE. Here is a practical breakdown of who benefits most from shopping here.

• South Asian Expatriates: Families from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka form the core customer base. The brand’s design language, cultural sensitivity during wedding and festival seasons, and reputation back in the subcontinent make it the natural first choice.
• Bridal Shoppers: Malabar Gold’s extensive bridal collections, dedicated bridal consultants, and ability to customise pieces make it one of the top destinations for wedding jewellery shopping in the UAE.
• Gold Investors: Customers who view gold as a savings vehicle or investment benefit from the brand’s transparent daily rates, certified gold coins and bars, and structured savings schemes.
• Budget-Conscious Buyers: While the brand also serves the premium segment, its lightweight jewellery lines and machine-made collections are accessible for shoppers with modest budgets.
• Tourists and Visitors: The UAE is one of the world’s most popular destinations for gold shopping. International visitors, particularly from Europe, America, and other Asian countries, frequently visit Malabar Gold showrooms in Dubai’s Gold Souk and major malls.
• First-Time Gold Buyers: The brand’s transparent certification process, trained sales staff, and clear pricing structure make it approachable for first-time buyers who may be unfamiliar with gold grading and pricing.

Customers who place a very high premium on ultra-luxury or haute couture jewellery may also wish to explore specialised luxury brands.

Malabar Gold and Diamonds vs Competitors in the UAE

The UAE jewellery retail market is competitive. Malabar Gold and Diamonds competes primarily with Joyalukkas, Tanishq, Bhima Jewellers, and Damas. The following table offers a fair, factual comparison across key criteria.

The best choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences, the specific design you are looking for, and which showroom is most conveniently located near you. For a deeper comparison, see [INTERNAL LINK: jewellery retail guide UAE 2025].

Customer Experience and Reputation

Malabar Gold and Diamonds consistently ranks among the highest-rated jewellery retailers in the UAE on platforms including Google Maps, with individual showrooms regularly scoring 4.2 to 4.6 out of 5 based on thousands of customer reviews.

Customers frequently praise the following aspects of their experience:

• Wide product selection with designs catering to every taste and budget
• Knowledgeable and patient sales staff, particularly for bridal jewellery consultations
• Transparent daily gold rates are displayed prominently and consistently
• Reliable certification on all gold and diamond products
• Comfortable and well-maintained showroom environments

Areas where some customers have noted room for improvement include:

• Waiting times during peak periods such as Eid and Diwali, particularly at flagship showrooms in Karama and Deira Gold Souk
• Making charges on certain handcrafted collections being higher than expected
• Occasional inconsistency in after-sales service across different branches

The brand has responded to customer feedback over time by increasing staff levels in high-traffic showrooms, introducing appointment booking systems, and expanding its exchange and buyback policies. Malabar Gold Mazyad Mall has received particular praise in online reviews for its spacious layout and attentive customer service.

Customer reviews are sourced from publicly available platforms, including Google Maps and are subject to change. Emirates Insider recommends checking current reviews before visiting.

Malabar Gold and Diamonds and the Community

Malabar Gold and Diamonds has built a visible commitment to social responsibility both in the UAE and across its global operations.

• Malabar Gold Charitable Trust: The group operates an active charitable trust that funds educational initiatives, healthcare programs, and community welfare projects, primarily in Kerala but also across the GCC.
• Employment: The brand is one of the largest employers in the jewellery retail sector in the UAE, providing direct employment to thousands of staff across its showroom network.
• Emiratisation: The brand participates in UAE Emiratisation programs and has made commitments to increasing its percentage of Emirati employees across management and retail roles.
• Environmental Commitments: Malabar Gold and Diamonds has publicly stated commitments to responsible gold sourcing and has aligned its procurement practices with the Responsible Jewellery Council’s framework to avoid conflict gold.
• Cultural Events: The brand sponsors and participates in cultural events marking Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, Diwali, and other key festivals celebrated by its diverse customer communities in the UAE.

Key Facts and Statistics

1. 350+ showrooms globally: As of 2024, Malabar Gold and Diamonds operates over 350 showrooms across more than 12 countries. (Source: Malabar Gold and Diamonds Official Website, 2024)
2. Top 6 jewellery retail chain globally: Malabar Gold and Diamonds is consistently ranked among the top six largest jewellery retail chains in the world by annual turnover. (Source: World Gold Council Industry Report, 2023)
3. USD 6+ billion annual revenue: The group reported revenues exceeding USD 6 billion in its most recent full financial year, making it one of the highest-revenue jewellery groups in the world. (Source: Forbes Middle East, 2024)
4. UAE gold market size: The UAE’s gold and jewellery retail market is valued at over USD 10 billion annually, making it one of the largest gold trading hubs in the world. (Source: Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, 2023)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the owner of Malabar Gold and Diamonds?

Malabar Gold and Diamonds was founded by and is owned by M.P. Ahammed, a Kerala-born entrepreneur. He serves as the Chairman of the Malabar Gold and Diamonds Group. The company is a privately held family-run business headquartered in Kozhikode, Kerala, India.

How many showrooms does Malabar Gold have in the world?

As of 2024, Malabar Gold and Diamonds operates over 350 showrooms across more than 12 countries. These include India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

How to invest in Malabar Gold?

Customers can invest in gold through Malabar Gold and Diamonds by purchasing gold coins or bars, which are sold at market-linked rates with purity certificates. The brand also offers a Gold Savings Scheme, where customers deposit a fixed amount monthly and redeem the value toward a jewellery purchase. Visit any Malabar Gold showroom in the UAE or the official website for current investment gold options and rates.

Who is the CEO of Malabar Gold and Diamonds?

The day-to-day leadership of Malabar Gold and Diamonds is managed by its Chairman, M.P. Ahammed, alongside a board of senior executives. Shamlal Ahammed serves as the Managing Director of International Operations, overseeing the GCC and global showroom network. For the most current executive information, visit the official website.

Bhima or Malabar Gold: which is better?

Both Bhima Jewellers and Malabar Gold and Diamonds are well-respected brands with loyal customer bases. Bhima is a Kerala heritage brand with over a century of history, known for traditional craftsmanship and strong customer relationships in Kerala. Malabar Gold is a larger international chain with more showrooms, a wider design range, and stronger international reach. The better choice depends on your location, the design you prefer, and the level of service you value. Both offer hallmarked gold and certified diamonds.

Malabar Gold vs Tanishq: which is better?

Malabar Gold and Tanishq are both highly trusted jewellery brands but serve somewhat different customer profiles. Tanishq, owned by the Tata Group, is particularly popular among North Indian customers and is known for its contemporary designs, strong branding, and reliable certification.

Malabar Gold has a stronger presence in the GCC and South India, a wider international showroom network, and is particularly popular for bridal jewellery. Both are excellent choices. The best option depends on your preferred design aesthetic and which showroom is nearest to you.

How to make a payment at Malabar Gold online?

Malabar Gold and Diamonds accepts online payments through its official website at www.malabargoldanddiamonds.com. Payment options typically include major credit and debit cards, net banking, and digital wallets. For in-showroom purchases in the UAE, the brand accepts cash, all major cards, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay. For the most current payment options on online orders, visit the website directly or contact customer service.

Conclusion

Malabar Gold and Diamonds has earned its place as the UAE’s most trusted and widely recognised jewellery retail group through three decades of consistent quality, transparent pricing, and a genuine understanding of what its customers want. From its origins in a single showroom in Kozhikode to a global network of over 350 showrooms, the brand’s founding principles have remained constant: sell certified gold honestly, design pieces that resonate culturally, and give every customer a reason to return.

In the UAE specifically, Malabar Gold has become more than a jewellery retailer. For millions of South Asian families, it is the place where wedding sets are purchased, where gold is saved for the future, and where generations of shoppers have found designs that carry both cultural meaning and investment value. Whether you are searching for today’s 22k gold rate at Malabar Gold UAE, planning a bridal jewellery purchase, or simply want to visit the nearest showroom, the brand delivers a consistently strong shopping experience across all its UAE locations.