Visa launches smart shopping guide

'Dubai attracts visitors from far and wide looking to take advantage of tax free shopping, advantageous exchange rates and year long promotions. This year Visa wants to help visitors enjoy shopping in Dubai even more by providing helpful tips and advice on how to shop smartly and avoid 'after sales regret',' said Stephen Coakley, Marketing Communications Manager for Visa International in the Middle East.

Visa's guide to smart shopping:


• Do keep all receipts as proof of purchase - what looked in perfect condition in the fitting rooms may not always be after closer inspection.

• Don't give in to impulse shopping - avoid shopping when you are tired, when you are hungry or when you need an emotional boost.

• Do your homework on future purchases - just because an item is reduced doesn't mean its good value unless it fits all your requirements.

• Don't wander through department stores aimlessly; that way you'll avoid the temptation to buy items out of your financial reach

• Do use a debit card instead of cash. This way you can keep a list of where you are making all your purchases by checking your monthly bank statement, instead of having to rely on your memory to know where you have spent your money.

• Don't forget to ask yourself 'Do I really need this?'

• Do carry a Visa card. It is the most widely accepted payment card in the world with over 24 million merchants taking Visa payments

'Shopping holidays to Dubai are a great way of combining a well deserved getaway with the opportunity to update your wardrobe or stock up on some unique items you can only find in Dubai. Using your Visa card is a convenient and flexible way to pay. With a credit card, the consumer has the choice to pay back the full amount or to pay back in monthly installments, helping them to manage their day-to-day cash flow. However, shoppers should bear in mind that they should stay within their credit limits and manage their spending, not to mention their baggage allowance,' concluded Stephen Coakley.