Online shopping has become the go-to for UAE residents seeking convenience, variety, and incredible deals. But how can you ensure you're truly getting the best bang for your buck? Here at SavePlus, we've compiled the ultimate list of 20 expert strategies to help you save big while shopping online in the UAE. From discount codes to savvy timing, we've got you covered.

Use Discount Codes for Instant Savings

Many online stores offer discount codes to help you save on your purchases. Websites like SavePlus compile and update promo codes for UAE shoppers regularly. Check these platforms before checkout to score additional savings.

• Look for promo codes on platforms like SavePlus before checkout.
  
  
• Use codes for additional discounts on your purchases.

Shop During Sales Events

Major sales like Dubai Shopping Festival, White Friday, and End-of-Season Sales are excellent times to grab huge discounts. Mark these events on your calendar and plan your purchases accordingly.

• Take advantage of events like the Dubai Shopping Festival for huge savings.
  
  
• Plan ahead to benefit from End-of-Season Sales.

Sign Up for Newsletters

Subscribing to store newsletters often grants you access to exclusive discounts and promotions. Many retailers also offer a first-purchase discount for signing up.

• Subscribe to store newsletters for exclusive discounts.
  
  
• Get first-purchase offers for signing up.

Take Advantage of Free Shipping Offers

Avoid unnecessary expenses by shopping from retailers offering free shipping. Many UAE stores, such as Namshi and Amazon UAE, provide this perk if your order meets a certain threshold.

• Shop from stores like Amazon UAE with free shipping options.
  
  
• Meet order thresholds to avoid shipping fees.

Compare Prices on Aggregator Websites

Use price comparison platforms like Pricena to ensure you're getting the best deal. These tools help you find the lowest price for products across multiple retailers.

• Use tools like Pricena to find the lowest prices.
  
  
• Compare multiple retailers before buying.

Leverage Cashback Rewards

Earn while you spend! Platforms like Cashback Souq and The Entertainer offer cashback on online purchases. Redeem these rewards to maximize your savings.

• Sign up for cashback platforms like Cashback Souq.
  
  
• Redeem rewards to maximize savings.

Opt for Loyalty Programs

Sign up for loyalty programs like Shukran, Amber, or Air Miles. These schemes reward repeat customers with points that can be redeemed for discounts or freebies.

• Join loyalty programs like Shukran for points-based discounts.
  
  
• Redeem points for free or discounted items.

Buy in Bulk

For frequently used items like groceries or household essentials, buying in bulk can lead to significant savings. Retailers like Carrefour UAE often provide bulk discounts.

• Save on essentials like groceries by purchasing in bulk.
  
  
• Look for bulk discounts at stores like Carrefour UAE.

Shop Early in the Season

Avoid price surges by purchasing seasonal items like winter wear or holiday gifts well ahead of time. Early shopping often guarantees better prices.

• Purchase seasonal items ahead of time to avoid price hikes.
  
  
• Early shopping ensures better prices and availability.

Use Mobile Apps for Exclusive Discounts

Many retailers offer app-only deals. Downloading apps like Noon, Amazon UAE, or Namshi can unlock exclusive discounts and notifications for flash sales.

• Download retailer apps like Noon for app-only deals.
  
  
• Enable notifications to stay updated on flash sales.

Abandon Your Cart

Add items to your cart but don't check out immediately. Many stores send follow-up emails offering discounts to encourage you to complete your purchase.

• Leave items in your cart to receive follow-up discounts.
  
  
• Wait for promotional emails before checking out.

Follow Retailers on Social Media

Brands often announce flash sales or exclusive promo codes on their social media pages. Follow your favorite UAE stores on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated.

• Track flash sales and exclusive promo codes on Instagram.
  
  
• Stay updated with brand announcements on Facebook.

Look for Bundle Deals

Many UAE retailers offer bundle discounts when you buy multiple items together. This is especially common with beauty, tech, and grocery products.

• Save on beauty, tech, or grocery products with bundle offers.
  
  
• Combine related items for additional discounts.

Negotiate on Marketplace Platforms

Platforms like Dubizzle or Bazaar allow buyers to negotiate prices directly with sellers. Don’t be shy—you could secure an amazing deal.

• Use platforms like Dubizzle to bargain for better prices.
  
  
• Negotiate directly with sellers for unique items.

Wait for New Customer Deals

New customers often receive introductory discounts or free shipping offers. If you're shopping at a store for the first time, take advantage of these perks.

• Take advantage of discounts for first-time shoppers.
  
  
• Look for welcome offers and free shipping perks.

Install Browser Extensions

Extensions like Honey or Rakuten automatically apply discount codes at checkout. They also alert you to price drops and cashback opportunities.

• Use Honey or Rakuten to find and apply discounts automatically.
  
  
• Get notified about price drops and cashback deals.

Time Your Purchases

Prices fluctuate throughout the week. Studies suggest that Mondays and Wednesdays often feature the lowest prices for many products. Plan your purchases accordingly.

• Shop on Mondays or Wednesdays for lower prices.
  
  
• Avoid weekend price surges on popular items.

Pay Attention to Return Policies

Check if the retailer offers free returns. This ensures you can shop worry-free, knowing you won’t lose money if the product doesn’t meet your expectations.

• Choose retailers offering free returns for risk-free shopping.
  
  
• Review policies to avoid losing money on unsuitable items.

Look for Flash Sales

Flash sales offer steep discounts but are available for a limited time. Stay alert on platforms like Noon and Amazon UAE to snag these deals before they're gone.

• Stay alert for limited-time discounts on Noon or Amazon UAE.
  
  
• Act quickly as flash sales are time-sensitive.

Use Digital Wallets

Paying with digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal often comes with exclusive discounts or cashback offers. Many retailers in the UAE incentivize cashless payments.

• Pay with Google Pay or PayPal for exclusive offers.
  
  
• Enjoy cashback incentives from cashless payments.

Conclusion

Shopping online in the UAE can be both rewarding and cost-effective with the right strategies. By applying these 20 expert tips from SavePlus, you’ll maximize your savings and enjoy a seamless shopping experience. 

Bookmark SavePlus for regular updates on deals, discount codes, and money-saving hacks. Happy shopping!

FAQ

What are the best platforms for finding discount codes in the UAE?
SavePlus, CouponCodesME, and RetailMeNot offer a wide selection of UAE-specific discount codes.

When is the best time to shop online for discounts in the UAE?
Major events like the Dubai Shopping Festival and White Friday are ideal for big savings.

How can I avoid shipping costs when shopping online in the UAE?
Look for stores offering free shipping or meet the minimum order thresholds, such as AED 100 on Amazon UAE.

Are cashback platforms worth using for UAE shoppers?
Yes, platforms like Cashback Souq and The Entertainer can provide significant savings over time.

What tools can help me compare prices while shopping online?
Use price comparison websites like Pricena or Souq for finding the best deals across multiple retailers.