Gold bars emerged as the most in-demand gold product in 2025, as soaring prices and global economic uncertainty pushed consumers toward safer, more investment-driven options. Industry professionals confirm a noticeable shift in buying behavior, with bullion purchases far outpacing demand for traditional gold jewelry.

As global market forecasts point to the possibility of gold prices exceeding $5,000 per ounce in 2026, traders and consumers alike are showing strong confidence in gold as a long-term investment and wealth protection tool.

Gold Prices Soar Year Over Year

According to local pricing data, gold saw a dramatic increase between late December 2024 and the same period in 2025:

• On December 27, 2024, the price of 24K gold stood at AED 318 per gram
• By December 27, 2025, it had reached AED 546.25 per gram
• That’s a sharp increase of AED 228.25 per gram

The strong price performance, coupled with global inflation concerns and economic volatility, has led more consumers to favor bullion over ornamental gold for its investment value.

Industry Experts Highlight Bullion Boom

Jay Dakkan, Director of Dakkan Gold & Jewelry Trading, stated that 2025 brought unprecedented price hikes that had a direct impact on consumption patterns. Gold bars, he said, became the go-to option for buyers focused on savings and wealth preservation.

“We saw a clear spike in demand for bullion. Despite the high prices, Dubai’s gold market remained vibrant, largely thanks to a strong tourism season and rising consumer spending,” Dakkan explained.
“We expect prices to exceed $5,000 per ounce globally in 2026, based on current market indicators.”

Echoing this trend, Ali Mutiy, Director at Mutiyola Gold & Jewelry, described 2025 as the strongest year for bullion demand in over five years, as investor trust in gold deepened.

“With the way global trends are moving, we believe gold could reach around $5,150 per ounce in 2026,” he noted.
“This outlook is already encouraging more local buyers to turn to gold bars as a reliable investment option.”

Bullion Sales Surge 50% Over Previous Year

According to industry leaders, 2025 was a breakout year for gold bar sales, which grew by up to 50% compared to 2024.

Dileep Dakkan, Director at Hayat Gold & Jewelry Trading, confirmed the shift:

“We witnessed exceptional price growth throughout the year, which naturally boosted interest in bullion over traditional gold jewelry,” he said.
“We expect this pattern to continue into 2026, with global demand pushing gold prices even higher.”

Tourism and New Gold Options Support Demand

Dubai’s strong tourism sector played a major role in sustaining demand across all gold categories despite the steep price hikes. Visitors from around the world continued to shop for gold in the city, known globally for its competitive pricing, variety, and trustworthiness in the gold trade.

Additionally, the introduction of 14K gold into the Dubai market provided buyers and importers with more flexible pricing options, expanding opportunities for both local and export-oriented businesses.

Looking Ahead: Gold Still Shines Bright

As 2026 begins, all signs point to a continued rise in investment-driven gold demand. While traditional gold jewelry remains popular for personal and cultural use, gold bars are increasingly seen as a strategic financial asset.