Gold Making Charge & Fair Quote Checker UAE
Enter the details of a jeweller’s quote to see a transparent breakdown: metal value at today’s live rate, plus making charge, stones and 5% VAT. It shows the full estimated total, not a judgemental “scam” label.
How to read the result
Compare the metal value against what the jeweller charges for the gold portion. A reasonable making charge sits on top; a large, unexplained gap between the metal value and the quote is worth questioning.
Making charges in the UAE
Charged per gram, as a percentage, or as a flat fee. Machine-made 22K carries the least; hand-finished and stone-set pieces carry more. See our making charges guide.
FAQ
What is a fair making charge on gold in the UAE?
There is no fixed rate, it depends on design and shop. Compare a few quotes and negotiate in the souk.
What counts as a fair making charge
Making charges are quoted three ways in the UAE. Some shops use a percentage of metal value. Others charge a flat fee per gram or per piece.
Plain machine-made chains sit at the low end. Handmade and stone-set bridal work sits far higher. Our making charges guide covers each format.
The same piece at three charge levels
The table below prices one standard purchase at three making-charge levels. It uses the live rate, so the numbers move with the market. The spread at the bottom is what negotiation is worth.
The figures below are for 10 grams of 22K at today's rate, where the gold itself is worth AED 4,699.08. The metal price is identical in every emirate, so the entire gap comes from the making charge.
| Making-charge level | Rate | Making charge | VAT 5% | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Souk, plain machine-made | 8% | 375.93 | 253.75 | 5,328.76 |
| Typical retail | 15% | 704.86 | 270.20 | 5,674.14 |
| Branded or intricate | 25% | 1,174.77 | 293.69 | 6,167.55 |
The gap between the cheapest and dearest scenario on the same piece is AED 838.79, about 16%. That is the amount you are actually negotiating over in Dubai.
Main gold markets in Dubai: Deira Gold Souk, Meena Bazaar, Gold & Diamond Park. Levels realistically reachable there: Souk level upward.
The making-charge levels above are illustrative comparison points, not verified quotes from named shops. The metal value and VAT are calculated from the live rate. The verified premium index below is what we publish only once enough real quotes exist.
Questions worth asking in the shop
- What is the net gold weight, excluding stones and clasps?
- Is the making charge a percentage, a per-gram fee, or a flat amount?
- Does the quoted total already include the 5% VAT?
- What is your buyback policy on this piece?
A shop that answers all four clearly is easy to compare. One that will not break the price down is worth a second look. Check the hallmark before paying either way.