Shopping in Timor-Leste? There are several supermarkets in Dili for everyday supplies, but if you want a genuine local experience, two markets stand out as unmissable destinations.
Tais Market
The Tais Market is a uniquely Timorese mercado selling high-quality handmade Tais cloth, traditional jewellery, bags, and handicrafts. It is easy to walk around and chat with stallholders about the pieces on display or find the best souvenir to bring home.
Nobody is pushy here, which makes browsing a pleasure — and you will experience first-hand the famous Timorese friendliness. Prices are significantly lower than at upmarket shopping centres such as Timor Plaza.
What is Tais Cloth?
Tais cloth is a form of traditional weaving created by the women of East Timor. It is an essential part of the nation’s cultural heritage and is used for:
- Ceremonial adornment
- Expressing respect and appreciation towards guests, friends, and relatives
- Home decoration
- Personal apparel
How Tais is Made
The production of Tais follows a time-honoured process:
- Cotton balls are spun into thread
- Plants are used to prepare natural dyes
- The thread is soaked in the natural dye solution
- The thread is oiled to fix the colour
- The Tais is woven on looms, which vary in size depending on the complexity of the design
Traditional Tais are produced in every district of Timor-Leste. Each district has its own unique knowledge of weaving techniques and dyeing recipes, passed down through generations. While some communities now combine synthetic thread and artificial dyes with traditional methods, the core craft remains largely ancestral.
The most visible differences between districts appear in the motifs, patterns, and colour combinations used in each weaving.
Comoro Market
Located on the main road to the airport, the Comoro Market is one of the two major markets in Dili and a true local gem for everyday supplies.
- Location: Main road to Dili International Airport
- Best for: Fresh produce, everyday goods, and an authentic local atmosphere
- Note: Can get muddy during the wet season, but the stalls are well worth the visit
It is not always easy to find on your first visit — if you are unsure whether you are heading in the right direction, simply ask a local, as it is widely known in the area. Do not be put off by the exterior; inside you will find an incredibly vibrant and authentic Timorese market experience.