Last Updated on March 22, 2025
Dubai isn’t just a global business and luxury tourism hub—it’s also an emerging literary hotspot. With a multicultural population and an ever-growing appetite for education and entertainment, Online Bookstores in Dubai have become key cultural pillars.
Whether you prefer strolling through aisles of hardcover treasures or browsing eBooks from your couch, the city has a solution for you.
Here’s an in-depth look at the top 10 online bookstores in Dubai, featuring both local gems and global giants, each contributing uniquely to the UAE’s reading ecosystem.
Top 10 Online Bookstores in Dubai
1. Kinokuniya
Kinokuniya is one of the most well-known names in the global book retail industry. Headquartered in Japan, it has branches in several major cities worldwide.
In Dubai, Kinokuniya is a literary landmark with its massive 68,000-square-foot book store in Dubai Mall, making it one of the largest bookstores in the region.
Offering over half a million titles in English, Arabic, French, Japanese, and more, Kinokuniya is ideal for international readers. They also sell art supplies, stationery, and manga, making it a favorite for students, creatives, and pop culture fans.
Location: Dubai Mall, Level 2
Website: uae.kinokuniya.com
+971 4 4340111
2. Magrudy’s
Founded in 1975, Magrudy’s is one of the oldest and most trusted bookstores in Dubai. What started as a single shop for children’s books and toys has grown into a well-respected chain offering textbooks, fiction, cookbooks, educational resources, and even school uniforms.
Still family-owned, Magrudy emphasizes literacy from an early age and supports local schools and educational events. Their Online book store in Dubai is user-friendly and frequently offers seasonal discounts.
Location: Multiple outlets across the UAE
Website: magrudy.com
+971 4 297 4321
3. Book World
Located in Ajman but serving the wider UAE, Book World caters to readers looking for affordability and variety. The two-story physical store features tens of thousands of books available for purchase, rental, or even exchange.
It’s a perfect place for students and budget-conscious readers who want access to branded, rare, and second-hand books. Book World allows customers to sell back the books they’ve finished, creating a circular reading economy.
Location: Moweihat, Talah 1, Ajman
Website: bookworlduae.com
4. Dar Al Hayat
Specializing in Islamic literature, Dar Al Hayat is a respected name in the religious and academic publishing scene. Though based in Sharjah, they offer fast delivery to Dubai, making them a popular Online book store in Dubai for customers seeking Qur’ans, Hadiths, religious commentaries, and children’s Islamic books.
They supply libraries, mosques, and educational institutions across the region and also participate in book fairs and cultural events.
Location: Opposite Dubai-Sharjah Road
Website: daralahayat.ae
+971 6 572 3736
5. BookHero
BookHero is a uniquely community-focused bookstore. Based in Dubai, they sell both new and gently-used books at affordable prices.
What makes them special is their philanthropic mission: proceeds from their sales help fund animal welfare campaigns, community libraries, and educational book swaps for underprivileged groups.
They operate several unmanned kiosks across the city and a mobile bookstore—perfect for readers who enjoy flexibility and surprise finds. Their commitment to both literacy and social responsibility makes them a standout among bookstores in Dubai.
Location: Oasis Mall, Mudon Community Center
Website: bookhero.org
+971 563878600
6. Bookends
Bookends is an eco-conscious bookstore that encourages the buying and selling of used books. Founded by a group of expat moms, their mission is to reduce waste and make books more accessible across the UAE.
Their sleek online platform allows readers to trade titles and discover hidden literary gems. They also host pop-up events, literacy drives, and book donation campaigns, nurturing a strong community around the love for reading.
Location: Dubai Silicon Oasis – Digital Park
Website: bookends.ae
+971 503621164
7. Noon
Noon is a leading e-commerce platform in the Middle East that also happens to be one of the best destinations for buying books online.
From fiction and biographies to exam prep and children’s literature, Noon offers competitive prices and speedy delivery.
It’s perfect for readers who want convenience without sacrificing variety. With frequent deals and bundled promotions, Noon is a go-to Online bookstore in Dubai for modern readers.
Website: noon.com
8. Amazon.ae
As the UAE arm of the global Amazon brand, Amazon.ae brings an unbeatable range of books to your doorstep.
Whether you’re searching for international bestsellers, academic material, or niche genres, Amazon offers both new and used books with excellent return policies.
They also feature eBooks and audiobooks for Kindle and Alexa users, making it a complete reading ecosystem.
Website: amazon.ae
9. DC Books
DC Books originated in Kerala, India, and has expanded into the UAE to serve the large South Asian community.
Known for publishing in regional Indian languages as well as English, DC Books offers a wide variety—from thrillers to current affairs.
Their physical and online stores promote cross-cultural exchange, especially for second-generation readers who want to stay connected with their heritage.
Website: dcbookstore.ae
10. Gulf Books
Gulf Books is a UAE-based online bookstore with a curated catalog spanning literature, business, history, and children’s books. What sets them apart is their commitment to promoting local authors and hosting literary events, book clubs, and writer collaborations.
Their seamless user experience and efficient delivery make Gulf Books a favorite among serious readers in the UAE.
Website: gulfbooks.com
Final Thoughts
Dubai’s literary scene is diverse, accessible, and rapidly growing. Whether you’re visiting a flagship book store in Dubai Mall or exploring new titles from your sofa through an Online book store in Dubai, you’ll find that the city offers an unmatched blend of international and local literature.
The next time you’re looking to buy your next great read, remember these book stores in Dubai—where every page leads to a new adventure.
