Cheapest Grocery Stores in Dubai: The Ultimate Budget Shopping Guide

Managing your monthly expenses in Dubai is a strategic game. While rent and utilities are fixed costs, your grocery bill is the one variable you can control. The difference between shopping at a premium retailer and a budget supermarket can swing your monthly budget by AED 400 to AED 800 for a standard couple.

We have analyzed the current market to bring you a practical guide to the most affordable grocery stores in Dubai. We are moving beyond generic lists to look at who offers the best value right now, including specific loyalty perks and price comparisons.

The Real Cost of Groceries in Dubai

Before diving into the specific brands, let’s look at the numbers. As of late 2025, a standard monthly grocery bill for a couple in Dubai ranges between AED 800 and AED 1,200 if you shop smart. If you aren’t careful, that number can easily double.

For example, a liter of milk at a budget discounter like Viva will cost you roughly AED 6-7. Walk into a premium store like Waitrose, and you are looking at AED 12-13 for a similar item. Knowing these price gaps is the key to saving money.

1. CARREFOUR

Carrefour remains the heavyweight champion of convenience and mid range pricing in the UAE. It bridges the gap between a bulk discounter and a premium retailer. If you need electronics alongside your onions, this is your spot.

The Practitioner’s Tip: Don’t shop here without the app. The loyalty program is now called SHARE Rewards. It allows you to earn points across all Majid Al Futtaim brands (including VOX Cinemas). The redemption rate is straightforward: 10 SHARE points equals 1 AED. If you are buying big ticket items like appliances, those points stack up fast.

In terms of staples, Carrefour keeps prices competitive. As of December 2025, you can find sliced white bread for around AED 3.29-4.49, which is significantly cheaper than premium competitors.

Check out our guide to the Best Online Electronics Store In Dubai if you are comparing tech prices specifically.

2. Union Coop

Union Coop is a favorite among long-term residents for a reason: consistent quality and frequent promotions. It feels less like a corporate giant and more like a community staple. As of December 2025, they operate 28 hypermarket branches across Dubai, with the newest addition recently opening at Nad Al Sheba Mall.

Their ‘Tamayaz’ loyalty program is split into Gold (for shareholders) and Silver (for everyone else). Just be aware of the new rule: you now need a minimum of 1,000 points to redeem rewards, and points expire at the end of the year. Plan your big shops accordingly to cash out before December 31st.

3. SPINNEYS

We wouldn’t classify Spinneys as a “budget” store, but it offers incredible value for specific categories, particularly high-quality deli items and fresh meat. If you are health conscious, the extra dirhams spent here often translate to longer lasting produce.

They maintain a strong presence with over 65 locations. Recent expansions include branches in Circle Mall JVC and Dubai Creek Harbour, ensuring that even newer residential communities have access to their stock.

4. Choithrams

Choithrams is the unsung hero of the Dubai grocery scene. It is a solid mid range option that excels in one specific area: British imports. Through a long standing partnership, Choithrams is the exclusive retailer for Tesco products in the UAE.

Why does this matter? Tesco’s private label products (like the ‘Tesco Finest’ range) offer a massive quality jump over generic store brands without the premium price tag of high-end organic labels. You can find over 1,000 Tesco items here, from frozen goods to savory snacks.

5. LULU HYPERMARKET

Lulu is a powerhouse in the GCC, now operating 112 stores within the UAE alone. Following their massive expansion and IPO in 2025, they have doubled down on aggressive pricing strategies to maintain their market share.

Lulu is excellent for bulk buying. Their “hot food” counters also provide some of the cheapest lunch options in the city. If you live in areas like Al Barsha or Al Karama, the Lulu branch is likely the anchor of your community.

6. West Zone Fresh Supermarket

With approximately 150 locations across the city, West Zone is likely just around the corner from you right now. It is one of the most accessible chains in Dubai.

Owned by the West Zone Group, this chain also operates the W Mart brand. They are particularly popular among Filipino expats due to their specialized product ranges. If you need pork products (available in specific non Muslim sections) or specific Asian ingredients at a fair price, West Zone is a reliable option.

7. BAQER MOHEBI

This is legendary status for bargain hunters. Baqer Mohebi is famous for its “1 Dhs section” and massive discounts on chocolates and near expiry goods. It’s less of a supermarket and more of a treasure hunt.

The main branches in Bur Dubai (Al Rolla Road) and Deira (near Al Qiyadah Metro) are always busy. If you have a sweet tooth but a strict budget, this is the first place you should visit.

8. WAITROSE

Let’s correct a common misconception: Waitrose is not a budget option. It is a premium retailer targeting the high-end market. A 30-pack of eggs here costs over AED 28, compared to AED 18.50 at Carrefour.

However, we include it here for the “Essential Waitrose” line. This specific range offers high-quality basics at reasonable prices, allowing you to buy luxury grade pasta and sauces without the luxury markup. Use Waitrose for specialty ingredients, but do your bulk shopping elsewhere.

9. SHAKLAN

Shaklan serves a vital role in the budget ecosystem, particularly in residential areas like Al Nahda and Al Quoz. They focus on fresh produce at rock bottom prices. It’s a no frills experience, but the savings on fresh fruit and vegetables are substantial compared to mall based hypermarkets.

10. Ripe Organic Dubai

Organic food usually equals “expensive,” but Ripe offers value through direct from-farm produce. The Ripe Organic Farm Shop in Al Manara remains a hub for the health conscious community.

Following its acquisition by the NRTC Group in late 2025, the brand has maintained its identity while potentially improving its supply chain. It’s the best spot for keto friendly items, raw honey, and gluten-free products that are hard to find in standard grocery aisles.

For a deeper dive into organic options, read our guide on Dubai’s Organic Oasis: Your Ultimate Guide & Personalized Store Finder.

11. Aswaaq Dubai

Part of the GMG portfolio, Aswaaq is a community centered retailer known for its high standards of hygiene and food safety. They utilize advanced technology (originally developed by NASA) to purify the air in their produce sections, keeping fruits and vegetables fresh for longer.

You can find key branches in Al Badaa, Jumeirah, and the 24/7 branch on Al Rigga Street.

Notable Mentions: Where Else to Look?

The grocery scene changes fast. For example, 7-Eleven has exited the Dubai market, so don’t waste time looking for one. Instead, keep an eye on these growing chains:

• Viva Supermarket: Currently the undisputed king of deep discounts in the UAE.
• Géant: Now owned by GMG, with over 23 locations including Express stores in communities like Dubai Hills.
• Zoom: Perfect for quick grabs at metro stations.
• Al Maya: Excellent 24-hour service in many locations.

Online shopping in Dubai

If you prefer to avoid the aisles altogether, the digital options in Dubai are world-class. Check out our dedicated guide to online shopping to see how you can get everything delivered to your doorstep.

Food delivery in Dubai

Sometimes you just don’t want to cook. Whether it’s a cheat meal or a healthy salad, our guide to food delivery apps will help you find the best deals and fastest service in the city.

Online shopping UAE

For a broader look at retail therapy across the Emiratesincluding how to navigate customs and taxesdon’t miss our comprehensive UAE shopping guide.