What is 22K gold?
22 karat gold contains 22 parts gold and 2 parts other metals (usually copper and silver), making it about 91.6% pure — which is why it is hallmarked 916. The small amount of alloy makes 22K noticeably harder and more durable than pure 24K gold, while retaining a rich gold colour. That balance of durability and gold content makes 22K the standard for traditional jewellery across much of Asia and the Middle East.
In the UAE, 22K and 21K gold dominate jewellery sales, with 18K used for lighter designer pieces. Dubai's Gold Souk and malls display the official daily rate for each karat, published in dirhams per gram, and negotiate making charges on top.