Top 10 Online Book Stores In UAE For 2024

Hey there, book lovers! Are you looking for your next great read but not sure where to start? Or maybe you want to shop for books without leaving your house? You’re in the right place! I’ve searched online to find you the best guide to the top online bookstores in the UAE. Whether you love exciting thrillers, sweet romances, or books that make you think, these shops will have something for everyone. So, grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s explore the best spots to find your next book in the UAE!

10 Best Online Book Stores In UAE For 2024

Kinokuniya:

Books Kinokuniya UAE, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a prestigious global bookseller with a prominent presence in the UAE. Their expansive stores, including a 39,000 square-foot location in Dubai Mall and a 27,000 square-foot store in Abu Dhabi’s The Galleria Al Maryah Island, offer an extensive range of books, magazines, and collectibles in multiple languages. These stores are cultural hubs, promoting literacy and hosting a variety of literary events within beautifully designed spaces.

What do they sell?

Languages: English, French, Arabic, Japanese, Urdu, Russian

Categories: Study guides, comics, literature & fiction, children’s reading series, business & economics, health & well being, audio books, biography, etc.

Based on the online reviews, here are the pros and cons for Kinokuniya Book Store UAE.

Pros:

  1. Extensive Selection and Variety: Reviewers praise Kinokuniya for its wide range of books, including a notable collection of English-language books, comics, and craft books. The store is described as having something new to discover every time, catering to a diverse array of interests and preferences.

  2. Customer-Friendly Services: Kinokuniya is commended for offering additional services such as home delivery for items not in stock, a membership card with a 10% discount and points system, and updates via WhatsApp for book availability. These services add considerable value to customer experiences.

  3. Engaging Events: The store hosts various events that engage the community, such as Free Comic Book Day, which includes giveaways like free mystery boxes, adding an element of excitement and community engagement to the shopping experience.

  4. Exceptional Customer Service (Mixed Feedback): While there are reports of poor service, there are also numerous accounts of positive interactions, with staff described as helpful, patient, accommodating, and professional. These experiences indicate a potential for excellent customer service that could be pivotal in a shopper’s decision to visit.

Cons:

  1. High Prices: A common criticism is the high pricing, with some customers noting that the prices are significantly higher than other alternatives. This could be a deterrent for budget-conscious shoppers.

  2. Inconsistent Customer Service: There are multiple reports of rough and rude customer service. Negative customer service experiences can greatly impact the store’s reputation and deter potential repeat customers.

  3. Poor Exchange Policy: At least one reviewer criticized the store for not honoring its exchange policy, which could frustrate customers and lead to dissatisfaction with the store’s policies.

  4. Mixed Reviews Might Confuse Potential Customers: The variation in customer experiences, ranging from exceptional to terrible, might make it difficult for potential customers to set expectations, which could influence their decision.

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Magrudy’s:

Magrudy’s is a longstanding fixture in Dubai’s retail landscape, having opened its doors in 1975 initially as a seller of educational toys and school supplies. Rapidly expanding to include books, which became the core of their business, Magrudy’s has grown to include multiple retail locations and is a beloved part of the community. Besides its strong retail presence, Magrudy’s has developed a robust distribution and wholesale operation, and is expanding further through a franchise program. Committed to fostering a love of reading, the family-run business supports local communities with book clubs, author signings, and partnerships with schools.

What do they sell?

Languages: English & Arabic

Categories: Humour, graphic novels, thriller, crime, horror, science fiction, poetry, modern classics, classics, paperback fiction, drama, Maps, phrasebooks, and a lot more.

Based on the online reviews, here are the pros and cons for Magrudy Book Store UAE.

Pros

  1. Wide Selection: Magrudy’s boasts an extensive inventory that spans various genres including fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, magazines, and newspapers, catering to a diverse readership.
  2. User-Friendly Website: The website is noted for its ease of use, enabling a smooth ordering process that enhances customer convenience.
  3. Multiple Payment Options: Offering a variety of payment methods, Magrudy’s accommodates different preferences, making purchases easier for a broad customer base.
  4. Convenient Pick-up Options: Customers appreciate the flexibility to pick up orders in-store, which is a convenient option for those who prefer not to wait for home delivery.
  5. Positive Reputation: Established and well-regarded in Dubai, Magrudy’s holds a positive standing in the community, backed by its long history as a trusted local bookstore.

Cons

  1. Limited Online Reviews: There is a noticeable scarcity of reviews specifically focusing on the online shopping experience at Magrudy’s, which makes it difficult for potential customers to form a clear expectation.

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Amazon UAE:

As a global marketplace, Amazon UAE offers a vast selection of books, spanning genres, languages, and formats. With its intuitive search function and convenient delivery options, Amazon UAE makes it easy for readers to discover new titles and purchase their favorite books with ease. One unique feature is its Kindle store, providing access to a wide range of e-books and audiobooks.

What do they sell?

Languages: Arabic, English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish

Categories: Children’s Books, Business & Finance, Self-Help, Literature & Fiction, Cookbooks, Biographies & Memoirs, Comics, Manga & Graphic Novels, etc.

Based on the online reviews, here are the pros and cons for Amazon Book Store UAE.

Pros

  1. Massive Selection: Amazon.ae offers millions of titles across a broad range of categories, including fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, textbooks, audiobooks, and ebooks. This extensive selection ensures that almost every reader finds something that suits their taste.
  2. Competitive Prices: Known for its deals and discounts, Amazon.ae frequently offers attractive pricing options on a wide array of books, making it a budget-friendly choice for avid readers.
  3. Fast and Free Shipping: The platform offers free shipping on orders over a specific amount (usually AED 100), and the delivery process is quick, enhancing the shopping experience.
  4. Variety of Payment Options: Customers appreciate the flexibility in payment methods, including credit card, debit card, and cash on delivery, catering to different preferences.

Cons

  1. Limited Availability for Some Titles: While Amazon.ae has a vast selection, certain specific or niche titles, particularly new releases and more obscure books, might not always be available.
  2. Varied Return Policy: The return policies can differ based on the seller and item, typically ranging from 15 to 30 days. Customers need to be aware of these details to avoid any inconvenience.
  3. Inconsistent Customer Service: Customer service quality can be inconsistent, with some shoppers reporting challenges such as long wait times or unsatisfactory resolutions in their dealings with support.

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Noon:

Noon is a leading e-commerce platform in the Middle East, offering a wide range of products, including books. With its user-friendly interface and fast delivery, Noon provides readers in the UAE with access to a diverse selection of titles, spanning fiction, non-fiction, and academic texts. One unique feature is its Book Fair section, where readers can find special deals and promotions on bestselling books.

What do they sell?

Languages: Arabic & English

Categories: Fiction, Children’s Books, Reference, Health & Personal Development, Arts, Architecture & Photography, Biography & True Stories, Business & Finance, History & Archaeology, Lifestyle, Sport & Leisure, Food & Drink, English Language Teaching (ELT), Society & Social Sciences, Language, Computer & Technology, Religious & Spiritual, etc.

Based on the online reviews, here are the pros and cons for Noon Book Store UAE.

Pros

  1. Extensive Selection: Noon.com provides a wide array of books across multiple categories including fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, and options in various languages like Arabic, English, and French. This diversity makes it a valuable resource for readers with varied interests.
  2. Competitive Offers: Frequently offering discounts ranging from 30% to 75%, Noon.com is a cost-effective choice for consumers looking to save on their book purchases.
  3. Fast Delivery: The platform supports several speedy delivery options, including same-day or next-day delivery in certain regions, enhancing the shopping experience for those who need their books quickly.
  4. Easy Returns: The return process at Noon.com is generally straightforward, with a clear policy, though it’s advisable for customers to verify the return window for specific books.

Cons

  1. Limited Reviews for Online Store: There are fewer customer reviews specifically focusing on the online book buying experience at Noon.com, which could make it harder for new customers to gauge reliability and satisfaction.

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Bookends:

Bookends is a pioneering digital platform based in the UAE, dedicated to the buying and selling of used books, making literature more accessible and affordable across the region. Founded by mompreneurs Grace and Somia, who were motivated by the need to continually refresh their own children’s book collections economically, Bookends offers a vast selection of pre-loved books at budget-friendly prices. Emphasizing environmental sustainability, Bookends encourages readers to reduce, reuse, and recycle by purchasing second-hand books. With a growing inventory that sees about 100 new items added daily, Bookends is committed to rekindling the love for reading by making books available to all ages and interests, while supporting eco-friendly practices.

What do they sell?

Languages: Arabic, Dutch, English, English / Arabic, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish

Categories: Action & Adventure, Activity Book, Animals, Art, Crafts, Hobbies & Music, Autobiography & Biography, Children Books, Comedy & Humor, Comic books & graphic novels, Cookbooks, Crime, Dictionary, Education, Encyclopedia, Fairytale, Fantasy, Featured, Finance, Business & Economics, Guide, Health, fitness & dieting, Historical Fiction, History, Horror, Math, Mystery & Suspense, Novel, Picture Book, Poetry, Politics, Religion, Romance, Science, Science Fiction, Self Help, Short Story, Sports, Thriller, Travel, Young adult, etc.

Based on the online reviews, here are the pros and cons for Bookends UAE.

Pros

  1. Limited Positive Mentions: There are a few positive mentions of Bookends.ae found online, suggesting that the store may offer a legitimate service. However, these mentions are not widespread.

Cons

  1. Lack of Reviews: There are no comprehensive reviews available that detail the customer experience specifically related to Bookends.ae’s online store or its customer service, making it hard to assess the quality and reliability of their service.
  2. Limited Social Media Presence: The absence of active social media pages for Bookends.ae limits the ability to gather customer feedback and engage with the store, which is a drawback for potential customers looking to learn more about the bookstore.
  3. Uncertain Trustworthiness: Due to the lack of reviews and a minimal online presence, it’s challenging to confirm the trustworthiness and credibility of Bookends.ae.

Recommendations

  • Proceed with Caution: If you’re considering purchasing from Bookends.ae, it may be wise to start with a small order to test the waters regarding their reliability and service quality.

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Jarir Bookstore:

Jarir Marketing Company, known as “Jarir Bookstore,” was established in Riyadh in 1974, initially as a small bookshop. Through strategic expansion, it has grown to be the leading provider of consumer IT products, electronics, office supplies, and books across the Middle East. With branches established in Riyadh throughout the 80s and 90s, Jarir solidified its market presence and now serves as both a retailer and wholesaler in Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries. Headquartered in Riyadh, the company operates through two key divisions: Retail (including online sales) under the Jarir Bookstore brand, and a Wholesale division. Their diverse product offerings include office and school supplies, children’s toys, books in Arabic and English, arts and crafts materials, computer peripherals and software, mobile phones and accessories, audiovisual instruments, photography tools, smart televisions, and maintenance services for computers and electronics. Additionally, Jarir provides international shipping exclusively for books.

What do they sell?

Languages: Arabic and English

Categories: Business & Management, Law, Engineering, Architecture & Design, Science & Mathematics, Computer & Technology, Health, Fitness & Dieting, Medical Books, Dictionaries, Learning Languages, Test Preparation & Certification, School Textbooks, Education, Autobiography/Biography, Non-Fiction, Fiction & Literature, Self Development, Young Adults, Books on Islam, Psychology, Saudi Arabia & The Arab World, Baby & Child Care, Cookery, Crafts & Hobbies, Pets & Pet Care, Travel & Maps, Children Books, etc.

Based on the online reviews, here are the pros and cons for Jarir Bookstore UAE.

Pros:

  1. Wide Selection of Products: Jarir Bookstore offers a diverse range of products, including Arabic and English books, electronics, office supplies, and toys, providing customers with various options to choose from.
  2. One-stop Shop Convenience: Customers appreciate the convenience of being able to find and purchase multiple items in one place, making their shopping experience more efficient and streamlined.

Cons:

  1. Delivery Issues: Some customers have experienced problems with delivery, such as delays or receiving products from a different city than expected, leading to inconvenience and dissatisfaction.
  2. Limited Stock in Some Branches: Despite the overall wide selection, certain branches may have limited stock, potentially hindering customers’ ability to find specific items they are looking for.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the top online books shopping sites offer a diverse range of products, convenient delivery options, and secure payment methods, catering to the diverse needs of consumers in the region. From popular platforms like Noon and Amazon to specialized sites such as Namshi and Souq, shoppers in the UAE have access to a seamless online shopping experience with reliable customer service and competitive pricing.

FAQs:

Can I find a diverse range of books on online books platforms?

Yes, online bookstores offer a wide variety of books across genres, including fiction, non-fiction, academic, and children’s books.

Are there options for purchasing both physical and digital books?

Yes, many of these online bookstores offer both physical books for delivery and e-books for immediate download.

How is the delivery process for books ordered online?

Delivery times vary depending on the website and location, but most offer reliable delivery services within the UAE.

Can I find books in different languages besides English?

Yes, many of these online bookstore platforms offer books in multiple languages to cater to diverse linguistic preferences.

Are there options for buying used or discounted books?

Some online bookstores offer sections for used or discounted books, providing budget-friendly options for readers.