/florencia_viadana_f74k_ZN_Whfps_unsplash_a7c8969447.jpg?size=391.18)
17 Mar 2025
Photo: Florencia Viadana
Hello, vinyl lovers — and those just starting their journey into collecting! Not sure where to buy vinyl in Dubai? No idea which records to pick up? Wishing for a list of record stores with descriptions of what makes each one unique?
Well, we had the same questions. So, we turned to an expert — someone who knows everything about vinyl: Jayesh Veralkar, curator and co-founder of Vinyl Souk, the UAE’s first and only music-focused marketplace. So, here is a curated list of his favourite record stores in Dubai — both physical and online — where you can find something unique.
And before you dive in, Jayesh has some advice: "A record store’s curation largely reflects the owner’s taste in music. So don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations — or just stop by and say hello. These are the local superheroes keeping us well-supplied with great music. Also, keep an eye out for specially curated in-store activations!"
The Flip Side
The Flip Side is known for its excellent selection of electronic gems. Whether you are into ambient, experimental, dub techno, or house — be it minimal, deep, disco, or funk — you are sure to find something to take home and expand your sonic horizons. They also curate regular in-store events, providing a platform for collectors as well as both emerging and established talent.
Location: Alserkal Avenue, Unit 71. Al Quoz 1
/boogie_box_1727082579_3463342156690028652_2983923238_ac77024d7b.jpg?size=415.46)
/flipsidedxb_1718033789_3387435401469049277_2160800560_baacfba2a2.jpg?size=330.49)
/boogie_box_1727082579_3463342156690168432_2983923238_bf79ccb5ae.jpg?size=589.87)
Raw Music Store
For those looking for a wide range of vinyl across all genres, Raw Music Store is a go-to destination. Their shelves are stocked with everything from classic rock to indie and beyond. My favourite part? Their massive collection of used records — I have scored some absolute gems for as little as 20 AED. They also have a synth room called SoundLab, featuring an impressive collection of synthesizers.
Location:
— Unit 8, Al Marabea' St, 14B street crossing — Al Quoz Industrial 1
— Pyramid Centre — Mezzanine Floor — M13 — Umm Hurair Rd
/rawmusicstoreme_1682240311_3087177943271892982_11054011560_72fec6f3df.jpeg?size=311.44)
Metal East Records
Rock & Metal heads, this one is for you! Metal East Records specializes in hard-hitting rock and metal vinyl, offering a fantastic selection for collectors and fans of the heavier genres. Whether you are into thrash, doom, or death metal, this is your ultimate haven. They also have a killer selection of music merch, so you can stock up on more than just records.
Location: Al Barsha 1 — The B1 Mall
/metaleastrecordsstore_1694889372_3193285964248697722_61985115941_f884803199.webp?size=162.15)
/metaleastrecordsstore_1694889372_3193285964517233249_61985115941_2ee3fb4c4d.webp?size=146.81)
/metaleastrecordsstore_1694889372_3193285964517216290_61985115941_ba6d367499.webp?size=133.39)
Cavo.ae
Cavo.ae offers a diverse selection of styles, making it a great destination both online and in-store. They stock a wide range of genres and have an impressive collection of compilations, perfect for discovering new sounds.
/cavo_ae_1737897294_3554062558470498718_19633299563_6a93b48c12.jpg?size=200.41)
/cavo_ae_1741953243_3588086326016530598_19633299563_3927e00c49.jpg?size=373.74)
/cavo_ae_1741953243_3588086326058508871_19633299563_b292a5662e.jpg?size=440.96)
Virgin Megastore
For those hunting for exclusive box sets and limited-edition collector’s items, Virgin Megastore is your best bet. While it leans more toward mainstream retail, it often stocks rare and special vinyl releases, making it a solid stop for collectors.
Location: Various locations
/clem_onojeghuo_p_Te_Z_Ki29_EYE_unsplash_2e5eb10ebb.jpg?size=265.89)
Photo: Clem Onojeghuo
Honeycomb Hi-Fi
Izakaya/speakeasy vibes — you enter through a record shop front. How cool is that? Inside, you will find stylish books and a small but well-curated selection of records.
Location: Pullman Dubai Downtown — Level 2
/honeycombhifi_1731157708_3497526818534423684_50659428904_1065dd9496.jpg?size=152.11)
/honeycombhifi_1731157708_3497526818542870174_50659428904_648cbf10fc.jpg?size=331.09)
/honeycombhifi_1731157708_3497526818534509545_50659428904_0c2ae7be2c.jpg?size=268.08)
Retro House
If you are a fan of timeless classics, Retro House is the online store to check out. As the name suggests, they specialize in evergreen music, offering a meticulously curated selection of albums from all eras. Perfect for anyone feeling nostalgic for vinyl treasures from the past.
The Source Distro
This one is for indie and alternative music fans. The Source Distro is a social-led micro-distributor of indie, shoegaze and, experimental funk & soul music.
/a_c_X_Zf98_F0_VUUM_unsplash_c0f177996c.jpg?size=361.19)
Hi-Fi Showrooms: Dubai Audio, Dr. Head, and Pult Electronics
For the audiophile who wants to hear their favourite records on some of the best equipment, don’t miss out on the hi-fi showrooms Dubai Audio, Raw Vintage Hi-Fi, Dr. Head, and Pult Electronics all offer incredible setups for giving your vinyl a proper spin.
/medium_lucas_gallone_Gvx1c_Xe_S4xw_unsplash_dad243b090.jpg?size=23.99)
/medium_IMG_5485_1_1_378f4ba782.jpeg?size=20.18)
/medium_C1_H9746_1123951a26.jpg?size=88.89)
/medium_DSCF_7740_Web_e1ba881c86.jpg?size=52.62)
/medium_philippmistakopulo_72743_An_above_view_photo_of_an_outdoor_musi_2ad837fd_0729_4eb7_b079_d0055b352a79_1_3_c69bc1d82e.png?size=899.41)
/medium_jens_aber_ff4_YE_Af_O81c_unsplash_5deee212cf.jpg?size=79.47)