Vinyl range
The collection spans more than 5,000 vinyl records and covers far more than metal.
Metal East Records Store
Al Barsha
Metal East Records is an independent record store in Al Barsha where you can browse a wide vinyl selection across metal and other genres, then build a listening setup with turntables and speakers. It also carries music-related merchandise and hosts events supporting Dubai’s local scene.
Reputation Score
4.9
★★★★★
195 ratings
Source: Google Maps
The Good Stuff
Setup help
Staff can connect and test a complete turntable, speaker and amp system before you take it home.
Genre breadth
Despite the name, the shelves include pop, hip-hop, R&B, jazz, soul, rock and other genres.
Used finds
A smaller used section can turn up less obvious records, including older R&B releases.
Helpful service
Reviews describe knowledgeable guidance that answers questions without pushing unnecessary purchases.
Local scene
The shop is also connected to Dubai’s music community through events and support for less frequently seen bands.
Online delivery
An online order reached Sharjah the next day despite difficult weather and road conditions.
Tips for a Better Visit
Check used. Browse the used section as well as new stock; reviewers say it can contain gems at lower rates.
Request demos. If buying a setup, ask to compare turntables and speakers at different quality and price points.
Ask requests. For an album not on the shelves, ask whether the team can accommodate a request.
Shop online. Online and in-store purchases are both reported as smooth, so check the website if visiting is inconvenient.
Look for freebies. If buying several products, check whether a freebie is included with the purchase.
Plan the visit
Practical details
The B1 - Gate # 1 Parking - Gate # 2 Al Barsha 1
Al Barsha First - Al Barsha, Dubai
| Mon | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Tue | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Wed | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Thu | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Fri | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Sat | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Sun | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
Popular Mentions
Cassettes
The collection includes cassette tapes and cassette players, including items associated with the 1980s and 1990s.
Record players
Record players are available alongside vinyl and cassette-related equipment.
Band merch
Merchandise includes music-related clothing and display pieces, with reviewers mentioning bands from Thin Lizzy to Slayer.
Common Concerns
Price variation
One reviewer found the shop pricey, citing around 175AED as the standard cost of a record.
Service inconsistency
One visit involved a rude exchange about returning a vinyl to its section, leaving the customer uncomfortable.
DXB
LOCAL
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The Bottom Line
Metal East Records is a specialist-leaning record shop in Al Barsha, but the name undersells its range. Metal and heavy metal are the strongest draw, yet reviews also mention classic rock, punk, alternative, pop, hip-hop, R&B, jazz, blues and Arabic records. The main browse is vinyl, with a used section for potential finds, plus cassettes and music players.
It is also a useful place to build or improve a listening setup. Customers have bought turntables, speakers and amplifiers here, with staff demonstrating differences between models and helping beginners understand how to use their equipment. One reviewer describes a complete system being connected, tested and sent home ready to plug in.
Another received help reviving an older Hitachi turntable with advice and a spare part. Expect a relaxed, old-school browsing experience where it is easy to spend time digging through shelves. Merchandise includes band and movie items such as posters, badges, stickers and T-shirts.
Prices are not uniformly low: one review puts a standard record at around 175AED, while another notes a used and 25% off section. Service is overwhelmingly described as knowledgeable and considerate, though one review reports an uncomfortable, rude exchange, so the experience may vary by visit.