Dubai’s first in-person rosary auction recorded AED 2 million in sales and deals, with a rare 100-year-old German amber rosary selling for AED 235,000
DUBAI: The UAE’s first in-person rosary auction recorded AED 2 million in sales and deals, attracting collectors and traders from across the Gulf and international markets. Held alongside the inaugural Rosaries in Dubai exhibition from November 6 to 8, 2026, the auction showcased rare prayer beads, antique amber pieces and valuable collectibles. Ali Al-Khalidi, General Manager of the exhibition, confirmed that approximately 13 rosaries were sold, most crafted from amber.
Rare German rosary sells for AED 235,000
The auction’s highest-value sale involved a 100-year-old German amber rosary purchased by an Emirati collector for AED 235,000. Another amber rosary fetched AED 85,000, while a kilogramme of Baltic amber sold for AED 76,000. The event demonstrated growing interest in rare prayer beads, traditionally traded through private collectors and online platforms.
Dubai exhibition attracts 21 countries
The three-day exhibition at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre, brought together more than 86 companies and platforms representing 21 countries. Organisers estimated total exhibition sales at approximately AED 30 million, including rosaries and amber stones.
Visitors also attended live rosary-making demonstrations, while Dubai Central Laboratory provided immediate inspection services to verify authenticity.
Impact to Expect
The successful auction highlights Dubai’s expanding position as a marketplace for rare collectibles, traditional craftsmanship and luxury heritage products. International participation could encourage more specialised exhibitions, connecting regional artisans with global collectors.
The event also underlined the importance of authentication services in strengthening buyer confidence, particularly when dealing with valuable antique materials. By combining cultural heritage with commercial opportunities, the exhibition demonstrated how traditional collectibles can attract investment and generate business activity across international markets.
