When it comes to supermarkets in the UAE, there’s no shortage of options. From local chains to international giants, the supermarket landscape in Dubai and the UAE is as diverse as the country itself. Whether you’re a tourist looking for a quick snack or an expat searching for your favourite brands from home, knowing where to shop can make all the difference in your experience.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best supermarkets in Dubai and the UAE, offering you a comprehensive guide to make your grocery shopping experience as enjoyable as possible. So, buckle up and get ready to discover the ins and outs of supermarkets in the UAE!
There are also some other markets such as the Deira Fish Market and the Souks, but we will not talk about these in this article.
Why Supermarkets Matter for Tourists and Expats
Supermarkets are more than just a place to buy groceries; they’re an essential part of daily life for both tourists and expats living in the UAE. Here’s why:
Convenience
When you’re on vacation or living abroad, convenience is key. Supermarkets in the UAE offer a one-stop shop for all your needs, from fresh produce and household items to ready-made meals and snacks. Plus, with many supermarkets open 24/7, you can shop at any time that suits your schedule.
Familiarity
For expats, finding familiar brands and products from home can be a comforting experience. Many supermarkets in Dubai and the UAE stock international products, making it easier for you to find your favourite snacks, ingredients, and household items.
Budget-Friendly Options
Travelling or living abroad can be expensive, but shopping at supermarkets can help you save money. With a wide range of products at various price points, you can find budget-friendly options that won’t break the bank.
Comprehensive List of Large Supermarkets in Dubai and the UAE
To help you navigate the supermarket scene in the UAE, we’ve compiled a list of large supermarket chains that cater to both local and international tastes. These supermarkets offer a wide range of products, ensuring that you’ll find everything you need during your stay in the UAE.
Large Supermarket Chains in the UAE
- Carrefour: As one of the largest supermarket chains in the world, Carrefour is a popular choice for both tourists and expats in the UAE. With a vast selection of local and international products, you’re sure to find everything you need under one roof.
- Lulu Hypermarket: Lulu Hypermarket is a leading retail chain in the UAE, offering a wide range of products at competitive prices. From fresh produce to electronics, Lulu has it all, making it a one-stop shop for all your needs.
- Union Coop: Union Coop is a consumer cooperative in the UAE that operates several hypermarkets across the country. Known for its high-quality products and affordable prices, Union Coop is a favourite among locals and expats alike.
- Spinneys: Spinneys is a well-established supermarket chain in the UAE, known for its premium quality products and excellent customer service. With a focus on fresh produce and imported goods, Spinneys is a great option for those looking for a more upscale shopping experience.
- Choithrams: Choithrams is a popular supermarket chain in the UAE that offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, household items, and ready-made meals. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, Choithrams is a reliable choice for your grocery shopping needs.
- Zoom: Zoom is a convenience store chain in the UAE that offers a wide range of products, including groceries, household items, and ready-made meals. With many locations open 24/7, Zoom is perfect for those late-night snack runs or last-minute grocery shopping.
The open hours of these supermarkets might be affected during Ramadan in the UAE.
International Supermarket Chains Present in the UAE
- Waitrose: Waitrose, a British supermarket chain, has several branches in the UAE, offering a wide range of high-quality products from the UK. If you’re an expat craving a taste of home or a tourist looking for familiar brands, Waitrose is the place to go.
- Spar: Spar is a Dutch supermarket chain with a presence in the UAE. Known for its affordable prices and wide range of products, Spar is a great option for those on a budget.
- Al Maya: Al Maya is an Indian supermarket chain that has expanded its presence in the UAE. With a focus on Indian products and ingredients, Al Maya is the perfect place to find all your favourite Indian spices, snacks, and more.
Affordable Supermarkets in the UAE
When it comes to budget-friendly shopping, knowing where to find the cheapest supermarket in Dubai and the UAE can make a significant difference in your overall expenses. In this section, we’ll explore some of the top affordable supermarket chains and share tips for finding the best deals and discounts.
West Zone Fresh Supermarket: West Zone Fresh Supermarket is a popular choice for budget-conscious shoppers in the UAE. With a wide range of products at competitive prices, West Zone Fresh Supermarket is an excellent option for those looking to save money on their grocery shopping.
Al Madina Hypermarket: Al Madina Hypermarket is another affordable supermarket chain in the UAE, offering a variety of products at low prices. With a focus on fresh produce and household items, Al Madina Hypermarket is a great choice for budget shoppers.
Ramez: Ramez is a discount supermarket chain in the UAE that offers a wide range of products at unbeatable prices. From groceries and household items to electronics and clothing, Ramez is a one-stop shop for all your budget-friendly needs.
Al Adil Trading: Al Adil Trading is an Indian supermarket chain in the UAE that offers a wide range of Indian products at affordable prices. If you’re looking for budget-friendly Indian groceries, Al Adil Trading is the place to go.
Nesto Hypermarket: Nesto Hypermarket is a budget-friendly supermarket chain in the UAE that offers a wide range of products at competitive prices. With a focus on customer satisfaction and value for money, Nesto Hypermarket is a reliable choice for your grocery shopping needs.
Many of these are accessible by the Dubai bus network or the Dubai tram.
Tips for Finding the Best Deals and Discounts in UAE Supermarkets
- Shop during sales: Keep an eye out for sales and promotions at your local supermarkets. Many supermarkets in the UAE offer weekly or monthly promotions on various products, helping you save money on your grocery shopping.
- Use loyalty cards: Many supermarkets in the UAE offer loyalty cards that allow you to earn points on your purchases. These points can be redeemed for discounts or free products, so be sure to sign up for loyalty programs at your favourite supermarkets.
- Compare prices: Before making a purchase, compare prices at different supermarkets to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Many supermarkets in the UAE have online portals where you can check prices and promotions, making it easy to find the best deals.
- Buy in bulk: Purchasing items in bulk can often result in significant savings. Look for bulk discounts on non-perishable items like rice, pasta, and canned goods to save money on your grocery shopping.
- Shop at local markets: While supermarkets offer convenience and a wide range of products, local markets in the UAE often have lower prices on fresh produce and other items. Be sure to explore local markets for budget-friendly shopping options.
Speciality Supermarkets by Cuisine
For those craving a taste of home or looking to explore new cuisines, Dubai and the UAE offer a variety of speciality supermarkets catering to specific culinary preferences. In this section, we’ll dive into some of the top speciality supermarkets in Dubai, organized by cuisine.
Korean Supermarket in Dubai
1004 Gourmet: 1004 Gourmet is a popular Korean supermarket in Dubai that offers a wide range of Korean products, including fresh produce, snacks, and ingredients for your favourite Korean dishes. With a focus on quality and authenticity, 1004 Gourmet is the go-to place for all your Korean grocery needs.
Japanese Supermarket in Dubai
Daiso Japan: Daiso Japan is a Japanese supermarket in Dubai that offers a variety of Japanese products at affordable prices. From snacks and household items to stationery and beauty products, Daiso Japan is a one-stop shop for all things Japanese.
Chinese Supermarket in Dubai
Wenzhou Supermarket: Wenzhou Supermarket is a Chinese supermarket in Dubai that offers a wide range of Chinese products, including fresh produce, snacks, and ingredients for your favourite Chinese dishes. With a focus on quality and authenticity, Wenzhou Supermarket is the go-to place for all your Chinese grocery needs.
Thai Supermarket in Dubai
Royal Thai Supermarket: Royal Thai Supermarket is a Thai supermarket in Dubai that offers a variety of Thai products, including fresh produce, snacks, and ingredients for your favourite Thai dishes. With a focus on quality and authenticity, Royal Thai Supermarket is the go-to place for all your Thai grocery needs.
Iranian Supermarket in Dubai
Iranian Supermarket: Iranian supermarket is an Iranian supermarket in Dubai that offers a wide range of Iranian products, including fresh produce, snacks, and ingredients for your favourite Iranian dishes. With a focus on quality and authenticity, the Iranian supermarket is the go-to place for all your Iranian grocery needs.
Russian Supermarket in Dubai
Yas Supermarket: Yas Supermarket is a Russian supermarket in Dubai that offers a variety of Russian products, including fresh produce, snacks, and ingredients for your favourite Russian dishes. With a focus on quality and authenticity, Yas Supermarket is the go-to place for all your Russian grocery needs.
Philippine Supermarket in Dubai
West Zone Fresh Supermarket: West Zone Fresh Supermarket is a Philippine supermarket in Dubai that offers a variety of Philippine products, including fresh produce, snacks, and ingredients for your favourite Filipino dishes. With a focus on quality and authenticity, West Zone Fresh Supermarket is the go-to place for all your Filipino grocery needs.
Popular Local Supermarkets
In addition to the speciality supermarkets mentioned above, there are several popular local supermarkets in Dubai that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. In this section, we’ll explore some of the top local supermarkets in Dubai, offering you a comprehensive guide to make your grocery shopping experience as enjoyable as possible.
West Zone Fresh Supermarket in Dubai
West Zone Fresh Supermarket is another popular local supermarket in Dubai that offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, dairy, and household items. With a focus on quality and freshness, West Zone Fresh Supermarket is a great option for those looking for high-quality products at affordable prices.
Madina Supermarket in Dubai
Madina Supermarket is a well-known local supermarket in Dubai that offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, and household items. With multiple locations across the city, Madina Supermarket is known for its competitive prices and excellent customer service.
Nesto Supermarket in Dubai
Nesto Supermarket is a popular local supermarket chain in Dubai that offers a variety of products, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, and household items. With multiple locations across the city, Nesto Supermarket is known for its competitive prices and excellent customer service.
Talal Supermarket in Dubai
Talal Supermarket is a local supermarket in Dubai that offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, and household items. With a focus on quality and affordability, Talal Supermarket is a great option for those looking for high-quality products at reasonable prices.
Supermarkets in Key Locations
When it comes to key locations in Dubai, such as Dubai Marina and Dubai Mall, you’ll find a variety of supermarkets to cater to your needs. In this section, we’ll explore the best supermarkets in these popular areas.
Supermarkets in Dubai Marina
1. Carrefour Market: Carrefour Market is a popular supermarket in Dubai Marina, offering a wide range of products, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, and household items. With a focus on quality and affordability, Carrefour Market is a great option for those living or visiting the Dubai Marina area.
2. Spinneys: Spinneys is another well-known supermarket in Dubai Marina, offering a variety of high-quality products, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, and household items. With a focus on customer service and convenience, Spinneys is a popular choice for residents and tourists alike.
3. Waitrose: Waitrose is a British supermarket chain with a location in Dubai Marina. Known for its high-quality products and excellent customer service, Waitrose is a popular choice for expats and tourists looking for familiar brands from home.
Supermarkets in Dubai Mall
While there isn’t a full-fledged supermarket within the Dubai Mall itself, there are several smaller grocery stores and convenience stores available to cater to your needs. Some of these include:
1. Marks & Spencer Food Hall: Located within the Dubai Mall, the Marks & Spencer Food Hall offers a variety of high-quality food products, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, and bakery items. This is an excellent option for those looking for familiar British brands or a quick snack while shopping.
2. Waitrose: Dubai Mall also offers a large Waitrose. This British supermarket can be found in the basement of Dubai Mall, close to where you would normally wait for a taxi.
3. Zoom Convenience Store: Zoom is a popular convenience store chain in Dubai, with a location near the Dubai Mall. Offering a variety of snacks, beverages, and basic grocery items, Zoom is perfect for those looking for a quick and convenient shopping experience. The Zoom convenience store can be found at the taxi rank. Simply walk outside and turn right. I always went here when looking for a bottle of water or a snack – especially when I did not want to pay a premium for the drinks in the vending machines in Dubai Mall.
Like I said before, if you are on a budget and thirsty after the Arba ride, the Burj Khalifa laser show, or visiting the Burj Khalifa, it is a good idea to either go to Waitrose or to the Zoom Convenience store. They are both very close to eachother.
Alcohol Availability in Dubai Supermarkets
When it comes to alcohol availability in Dubai supermarkets, it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding alcohol sales in the UAE. In this section, we’ll explore whether you can buy alcohol in supermarkets in Dubai and where to find alcohol in the city.
Laws and Regulations Regarding Alcohol Sales
The UAE has strict laws and regulations when it comes to the sale and consumption of alcohol. In Dubai, alcohol is only sold in licensed establishments, such as hotels, bars, and restaurants. It is illegal to consume alcohol in public places or to be intoxicated in public.
To purchase alcohol for personal consumption at home, residents must obtain an alcohol license. This license allows individuals to buy alcohol from designated liquor stores but not from supermarkets. Tourists, on the other hand, are not required to have a license to consume alcohol in licensed establishments.
Alcohol licenses are easy to obtain. You can find out more about these alcohol licenses in this blog post.
Can You Buy Alcohol in Supermarkets in Dubai?
The short answer is no; you cannot buy alcohol in supermarkets in Dubai. As mentioned earlier, alcohol is only available for purchase at designated liquor stores and licensed establishments. Supermarkets in Dubai do not sell alcoholic beverages due to the strict laws and regulations surrounding alcohol sales in the UAE.
Where to Find Alcohol in Dubai
If you’re looking to purchase alcohol in Dubai, there are several options available:
1. Licensed hotels, bars, and restaurants: These establishments offer a wide range of alcoholic beverages for consumption on their premises. Keep in mind that prices can be quite high compared to what you might be used to back home.
2. Designated liquor stores: For residents with an alcohol license, there are several liquor stores in Dubai where you can purchase alcohol for personal consumption at home. Some popular liquor stores include MMI (Maritime and Mercantile International) and A+E (African + Eastern).
3. Duty-free shops: If you’re a tourist or an expat returning to Dubai, you can purchase alcohol at the duty-free shops located at Dubai International Airport. This is often the most cost-effective option, as prices are significantly lower than those in licensed establishments.
Unique Items to Buy in Dubai Supermarkets
When visiting Dubai, you’ll undoubtedly want to bring back some unique souvenirs and gifts for your friends and family. Dubai supermarkets offer a wide range of local products and delicacies that make perfect gifts and mementoes for your trip. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best items to buy in Dubai supermarkets.
Popular Local Products and Delicacies
1. Camel Milk Chocolate: A delicious and unique treat, camel milk chocolate is a must-try when in Dubai. Made with locally sourced camel milk, this chocolate has a distinct flavour and creamy texture that sets it apart from traditional milk chocolate. Brands like Al Nassma and Camelicious offer a variety of flavours and packaging options, making them perfect gifts for loved ones back home.
2. Arabic Coffee and Coffee Pots (Dallah): Arabic coffee, also known as “gahwa,” is an integral part of Emirati culture. You can find pre-packaged Arabic coffee blends in supermarkets, along with beautiful traditional coffee pots (dallah) that make for a great souvenir. Don’t forget to pick up some cardamom and saffron to add an authentic touch to your coffee!
3. Dates and Date Products: The UAE is known for its high-quality dates, which come in various types and flavours. You can find them in supermarkets packed in elegant boxes or even covered in chocolate for a sweet treat. Additionally, you can find date syrup, date vinegar, and date paste – all of which make for unique culinary gifts.
4. Spices: Dubai’s rich history as a trading hub means that its supermarkets are filled with a wide variety of spices from around the world. Look for local favourites like za’atar, sumac, and baharat, or pick up a pre-packaged spice mix for traditional dishes like biryani or kabsa.
5. Local Honey: The UAE is home to several types of honey, each with its unique flavour profile. Sidr honey, for example, is made from the nectar of the Sidr tree and is known for its rich taste and numerous health benefits. You can find various local honey options in Dubai supermarkets, making for a sweet and thoughtful gift.
Souvenirs and Gifts for Tourists
1. Henna Kits: Henna is a popular form of body art in the UAE, and you can find DIY henna kits in supermarkets that include henna powder, applicator cones, and stencil designs. These kits make for a fun and interactive gift that allows your friends and family to experience a bit of Emirati culture.
2. Arabic Perfumes (Attar): The UAE is known for its love of fragrances, and you can find a wide range of Arabic perfumes, also known as “attar,” in Dubai supermarkets. These oil-based perfumes are highly concentrated and long-lasting, making them a luxurious gift option.
3. Pashmina Shawls: While not a food item, pashmina shawls are a popular souvenir that can be found in some Dubai supermarkets. These soft, luxurious shawls come in various colours and patterns, making them a versatile and stylish gift.
4. Emirati Cookbooks: Share the flavours of the UAE with your loved ones by gifting them an Emirati cookbook. These books are filled with traditional recipes and cooking techniques, allowing your friends and family to recreate the tastes of Dubai in their own kitchens.
Where to Buy Pork and Bacon in Dubai and the UAE
While the UAE is a predominantly Muslim country, and pork is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam, there are still options for those who crave their favourite pork dishes. In this section, we’ll explore where to buy pork and bacon in Dubai and the UAE.
Waitrose
Waitrose is a British supermarket chain that has several branches in Dubai and the UAE. They have a large non-halal section where you can find a variety of pork products, including bacon, sausages, and ham. However, it’s essential to note that the prices in Waitrose can be quite expensive compared to other supermarkets.
West Zone Fresh
West Zone Fresh is a popular supermarket chain in the UAE, known for its affordable prices and wide range of pork products. Not all West Zone Fresh branches have pork products, but if they do, you can find them in a special non-halal room at the back of the shop. The pork products here are quite cheap compared to other supermarkets.
Spinneys
Spinneys is another well-known supermarket chain in Dubai and the UAE, offering a wide range of international products. They have a dedicated non-halal section where you can find various pork products, including bacon, sausages, and ham. Spinneys is known for its high-quality products, so you can expect to find premium pork options here.
Park n Shop
Park n Shop is a smaller supermarket chain in Dubai, but it’s worth checking out if you’re looking for pork products. They have a separate non-halal section that offers a variety of pork items, including bacon, sausages, and ham. Park n Shop also carries a good selection of international brands, so you might find some familiar favourites here.
Conclusion: The Diverse Supermarket Offerings in Dubai and the UAE
From the biggest supermarket in Dubai to the smaller local chains like Greens supermarket in Dubai and We Mart supermarket in Dubai, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to grocery shopping in the UAE. With a wide range of international and local products available, you’re sure to find everything you need to make your stay in Dubai enjoyable and delicious.
Whether you’re searching for unique souvenirs and gifts or craving your favourite pork dishes, the diverse supermarket offerings in Dubai and the UAE cater to every taste and preference. So go ahead and explore the aisles, discover new flavours, and enjoy the shopping experience that this vibrant city has to offer!
