When purchasing physical gold in Dubai, understanding the karat measurement system is essential for evaluating purity, market valuation, and investment suitability. Karat (often abbreviated as "K" or "kt") measures the ratio of pure gold to other alloy metals out of 24 parts.
1. 24 Karat Gold (99.9% to 99.99% Purity • Millesimal Fineness 999.9)
24K Gold represents the pinnacle of elemental purity. It contains no alloy metals and is the standard for institutional bullion cast bars, minted ingots, and international spot trading.
- Millesimal Fineness: .9999 ("Four Nines Fine") or .9990.
- Characteristics: Rich, deep yellow metallic luster with natural malleability.
- UAE Tax Status: 0% VAT Zero-Rated under UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) investment precious metals rules (fineness ≥ 99%).
- Best For: Pure physical wealth preservation, vault storage, and live spot liquidity.
2. 22 Karat Gold (91.67% Purity • Millesimal Fineness 916.7)
22K Gold contains 22 parts pure gold and 2 parts copper/silver/zinc alloys. Widely popular across the Middle East, South Asia, and the UK for high-grade legal tender coins (such as the British Full Sovereign) and premium heritage jewellery.
- Millesimal Fineness: 916.7.
- Characteristics: Highly lustrous with increased scratch resistance compared to 24K.
- Best For: Traditional sovereign bullion coins and wearable high-value jewellery.
3. 21 Karat Gold (87.5% Purity • Millesimal Fineness 875)
21K Gold is the iconic traditional gold standard across Dubai, the GCC, and Egypt. It balances rich yellow coloration with structural durability for daily wear and heirloom collections.
- Millesimal Fineness: 875.
- Characteristics: Stronger structural integrity while retaining unmistakable golden warmth.
4. 18 Karat Gold (75.0% Purity • Millesimal Fineness 750)
18K Gold consists of 18 parts pure gold (75%) and 6 parts reinforcing metals. It is the premier choice worldwide for fine diamond jewelry mounting, luxury watches, and intricate crafted designs that require exceptional hardness.
- Millesimal Fineness: 750.
- Characteristics: Available in Yellow Gold, White Gold, and Rose Gold.