Dubai is known for its luxury but grocery shopping does not need to be costly. If you are a resident or a visitor, knowing where to get budget supermarkets can save you a lot in food and household essentials.
This guide looks at the cheapest supermarkets in Dubai, what makes them cheap and how to save more in them.
1. Viva Supermarket – The Most Affordable Option
Why It’s Cheap:
- Mainly deals in store brand products with over 80% sourced directly from Europe.
- Bulk buying from manufacturers makes costs low.
- Provides weekly discounts for pantry staples.
Pros:
- Prices may be 50% less than major brands.
- Perfect for daily necessities like rice, pasta and canned goods.
- Over 70 locations across Dubai.
Cons:
- Limited selection of international brands.
- Some products can be of different quality.
Best For: Thrifty shoppers who are store brand loyal.
Pro Tip: Visit their weekly promotions online before shopping and order through Talabat for home delivery.
2. Nesto Hypermarket – Best for Discounts and Variety
Why It’s Cheap:
- Competitive rates on groceries and household goods.
- Regular weekend sales and bulk purchase discounts.
Pros:
- Good combination of local and imported goods.
- Weekly Mega Sales (Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
- Also sells electronics and appliances at lower prices.
Cons:
- Prices may vary by branch.
- Some of the imported goods are costly.
Best For: Families that are looking for an affordable mix.
Pro Tip: S Shop in the middle of the week for the best promotions.
3. Union Coop – Best for Fresh Produce and Bulk Purchases
Why It’s Cheap:
- Operates on a cooperative basis, hence lower profit margins.
- Weekly discounts on fresh fruits, vegetables and meat.
Pros:
- Special anti-inflation pricing on the necessities.
- Over 25 branches across Dubai.
- Some locations offer 24-hour home delivery.
Cons:
- Certain branches may be crowded.
Best For: Shoppers who buy in bulk.
Pro Tip: Check their “Crashed and Locked Prices” section for some great deals.
4. Baqer Mohebi – Best for Wholesale and Snacks
Why It’s Cheap:
- Deals in bulk purchases and wholesale prices.
- Famous for highly discounted chocolates and snacks.
Pros:
- Has a clearance section with products offered at 1 AED only.
- Very good for party supplies and imported goods.
Cons:
- Not suitable for small one-time purchases.
- Limited fresh produce selection.
Best For: Stocking up on non-perishable items.
Pro Tip: Get the best deals at their Deira branch.
5. West Zone Fresh – Best for International Products
Why It’s Cheap:
- Provides cheap imported goods from Asia, Europe and the US.
- Own-brand products (Yash and West Zone) are affordable.
Pros:
- Variety of Filipino, Indian and western foods.
- Some branches provide 24-hour delivery.
Cons:
- Some locations might be out of stock.
Best For: Expats seeking international brands they recognize.
Pro Tip: Save more by tasting their house-brand rice and canned goods.
6. Al Maya Supermarket – Best for 24/7 Shopping
Why It’s Cheap:
- Purchases products directly from suppliers, thus cutting costs.
- Weekly Wednesday Saver Deals.
Pros:
- Operating round the clock, which is convenient for late night shopping.
- Free home delivery by Talabat.
Cons:
- Prices are a little more than Viva or Nesto.
Best For: Nighttime and last-minute shoppers.
Pro Tip: Benefit from scratch-and-win offers with purchases of 50 AED and more.
7. Ras Al Khor Fruit and Vegetable Market – Cheapest for Fresh Produce
Why It’s Cheap:
- Wholesale market with no middlemen.
- Vendors sell directly from farms.
Pros:
- Fruits and vegetables typically half the price of supermarket.
- Ideal for bulk purchases.
Cons:
- Requires bargaining skills.
- Less convenient than traditional supermarkets.
Best For: Regular cooks who are focused on fresh ingredients.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to get a good quality.
Online Grocery Shopping for Extra Savings
- Noon Daily / Noon Grocery – Daily discounts on essentials.
- Lulu Hypermarket App – Online-exclusive deals.
- Amazon UAE – Competitive prices on packaged foods.
Comparison: Which Supermarket Is the Cheapest?
| Supermarket | Best For | Price Level |
| Viva | Daily essentials | Cheapest overall |
| Nesto | Discounted variety | Affordable |
| Union Coop | Fresh produce and bulk buys | Great value |
| Baqer Mohebi | Wholesale snacks | Best for bulk |
| West Zone Fresh | International foods | Mid-range pricing |
| Al Maya | 24/7 convenience | Slightly higher |
| Ras Al Khor Market | Fresh fruits and vegetables | Cheapest for produce |
Money-Saving Tips for Grocery Shopping in Dubai
- Compare prices from stores before buying.
- Buy in bulk if possible and especially at Baqer Mohebi and Union Coop.
- Shop during sales and especially at the end of the month.
- Use loyalty cards and supermarket apps for further discounts.
- Choose local or store brands over imported brands where possible.
Dubai has many affordable supermarkets for those shoppers who are on a budget. Viva and Nesto are perfect for everyday groceries but the best prices for fresh produce can be found at Ras Al Khor Market.
Through planning your shopping trips and utilizing discounts and bulk deals you can save a lot on your grocery bills. Smart shopping guarantees you the best value for your money without sacrificing quality.
