As summer holidays wind down, parents across the UAE are preparing for the back-to-school rush.
From stationery and books to backpacks and accessories, the checklist can feel never-ending.
The good news? Many stores in Dubai roll out back-to-school offers that make shopping smarter, easier, and more budget-friendly.
To help you save time (and dirhams), here’s Hala’s guide on where you can find the best deals on school essentials this year and how to get to them.
Where to Shop for School Essentials in Dubai?
Dubai makes back-to-school shopping easier with dedicated stores across every category. Just book a Hala Taxi and get to one of these stores for the best deals this year:
Stationery & School Supplies
No school year can begin without pens, notebooks, planners, and art. Luckily, Dubai has plenty of options:
1. Daiso Japan
For quality, affordable everyday items, turn to Daiso Japan. Known for its wide range of products, it offers everything from notebooks and pens to folders, craft materials, and even lunchboxes.
Prices start as low as AED 7, making it a favorite for parents who want to stock up on essentials without overspending.
2. Typo
For parents and students looking for more stylish and creative options, Typo is the go-to store.
Located in malls such as Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, and Dubai Hills Mall, Typo specializes in trendy planners, quirky pencil cases, and back-to-school accessories that stand out.
3. Carrefour Hypermarkets
Carrefour remains a popular household name in Dubai and the Middle East for back-to-school shopping.
Along with stationery, expect backpacks and almost all accessories your kids would need, making it a convenient and budget-friendly one-stop shop for families.
With stationery bundles, weekly promotions, and discounts on larger purchases, Carrefour is one of the UAE’s most practical destinations for back-to-school shopping.
Books & Learning Resources
Beyond stationery, the right books, learning materials, and educational toys, like STEM kits, can make a creative difference in your child’s academic journey. A few taps on the Careem app, and Hala will take you to your preferred store hassle-free.
1. Kinokuniya – Dubai Mall
For book lovers, Kinokuniya is a paradise.
Located in Dubai Mall, it offers one of the largest collections of books in the city, featuring almost everything – from academic workbooks and exam guides to novels, picture books, and reference materials.
With the impressive selection of local and international publications the store carries, you can easily find resources tailored to every age group, from preschool to high school.
2. Borders
Already a popular stop for stationery and books, Borders also doubles as a great place to pick up creative supplies.
With 14 branches across Dubai, Borders is the go-to destination for families combining school essentials with engaging learning tools that keep kids inspired.
3. Virgin Megastore
Known for its wide selection of STEM kits, puzzles, and educational toys, Virgin Megastore brings a fun and innovative twist to learning.
Alongside books and reference materials, the stores offer interactive resources that turn after-school learning into an enjoyable experience.
It’s perfect for parents who want to nurture curiosity and hands-on learning together.
Backpacks
From durable to fun, here’s where you will find the best school bags in Dubai:
1. Sun & Sand Sports
Sun & Sand Sports is a popular destination when shopping for durable and branded backpacks, including school backpacks.
Stocked with leading international brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma, Sun & Sand Sports is an ideal choice for students who fancy reliable, high-quality, long-lasting backpacks.
With multiple branches across Dubai, you’re just a Hala Taxi away from your nearest store.
2. Early Learning Centre
For younger children, the Early Learning Centre (ELC) is a top pick.
With locations all over Dubai, ELC specializes in playful, child-friendly backpacks and lunch kits.
Their collections feature popular cartoon characters and fun, colorful designs that appeal to preschoolers and primary school students.
The matching sets include backpacks, lunchboxes, and water bottles, making it easy for you to get everything your little one needs in one theme and purchase.
3. Union Coop
Union Coop is another budget-friendly choice for school backpacks, lunchboxes, and stationery in Dubai.
Their stores feature a diverse selection of school bags, toys, and creative supplies for children of all ages, sometimes offering prices lower than branded outlets.
Union Coop’s affordability and accessibility make it a reliable option for families on a limited back-to-school budget.
Shop for School Essentials Stress-Free
So whether you’re picking up budget-friendly stationery from Carrefour, backpacks from Skechers or Adidas, or playful sets from Early Learning Centre, Hala’s here for you.
With convenient pick-up and drop-off services, you don’t have to worry about parking or long walks with kids and shopping bags. Hala ride will take you anywhere you want, anytime, and on time.
Beyond shopping trips, you can also book a Hala as your child’s school pick and drop taxi, and opt for a smarter back-to-school commute.
It saves time, adds a premium layer of comfort for children, and provides peace of mind for parents.
Why Parents Trust Hala Taxis for Kids
Shopping trips with little ones can be stressful, but Hala taxis for kids are designed to make family travel easier and safer.
When booking a cab in Dubai, parents need reassurance. And Hala provides just that.
From quick shopping runs to daily commutes, here’s why parents in Dubai are choosing Hala:
- Safety First Approach: Every Hala ride for kids complies with safety standards, including the availability of kids’ car seats, GPS tracking, and seatbelt systems.
- Trusted Drivers: All our captains undergo thorough background checks, regular evaluations, and safety training.
- Door-to-Door Pick and Drop Services: You no longer have to carry heavy shopping bags to the parking lot. Hala picks you up and drops you right at the entrance.
- Peace of Mind: Our real-time GPS tracking, emergency contact options, and driver ratings ensure complete transparency.
With these features, Hala goes beyond being just a ride; it is a reliable companion for commuting and as a school pick and drop taxi during the busy back-to-school season.
Back-to-School Shopping? Hala!
Back-to-school season may feel overwhelming, but it’s also a chance to create little moments of joy.
When picking out a colorful notebook or finding the perfect backpack, things can either get a little stressful alone or become lasting memories when done right with your kids.
So book a Hala Taxi, maybe Hala Kids if you have toddlers, and cross items off your checklist as you set your child up for a happy and confident start to this academic year.
And whether you are tackling the back-to-school shopping list or ensuring a stress-free school commute, booking a taxi with Careem is one of the safest and smartest choices for parents across Dubai.
