Behind ornate baskets stuffed with dried hibiscus, red roses, yas leaves, chamomile and frankincense lays Wadi A’z Zafran, or the valley of saffron. This Iranian-owned spice and herb shop stands out amongst its more kitsch neighbors at the Central Souk with ingredients from across the Middle East and North Africa spilling out into the hallway.

Set inside the modern souk, the shop is a taste of ancient Persian tradition. Waleed, the owner, arranged the shop to reflect centuries of tradition, selling everything from sweets to nuts, herbs and spices. Today, its products range globally from its specialty loose Moroccan green tea and dates from Saudi Arabia and Iran, to oils for face and hair care from Pakistan.

The highlight is its selection of various grades of Iranian saffron, arguably the best and most pure saffron in the world. Displayed in intricate glass vases, it paints the register area a beautiful deep red.

Saffron has been in use for over 3,000 years in both Mediterranean cuisine and medicine. Due to its color and taste, the spice is a key ingredient in many dishes, staining rice and chicken a vibrant yellow. Throughout the region, saffron was used in the treatment of 90 illnesses including fevers, measles, kidney and liver diseases as well as an antidepressant. Today, it is the most expensive spice on the market and desired by top chefs across the globe.

For Sama’s resident chefs, saffron from Wadi A’z Zafran is sure to add flavor and depth to dishes. Due to sanctions, Iranian saffron is not available in the United States and many Western countries, so students can take advantage of its availability in Abu Dhabi to try new recipes and experiment with the region’s flavors.

By Nicole López Del Carril/The Gazelle

The store’s starter cooking kit includes twelve local spices for 35 dirhams and can be complemented with a packet of saffron as well as dried vanilla beans, perfect for adding to teas, baked goods and custards.

For students less inclined to cook, the store’s Iranian sweets — namely the rose Turkish delight and nuggets with fruit and cardamom — are worth the trip. Those looking for a healthy snack for studying can ruffle through the wide variety of nuts including cashews, walnuts and various plain and salted almonds.

All palettes will surely find a treasure at Wadi A’z Zafran. As saffron is a natural antidepressant, the Valley of Saffron is a great escape from studies and worries.