From the Arabic for 'market'. In Dubai: the Gold Souk (Deira, open-air, 300+ shops), the Spice Souk (aromatic, Deira), and various 'souks' that are really malls (Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Mall of the Emirates' ski slope area). The Deira souks are real; the rest are architectural conceits. Both have their uses.