Being a bibliophile and looking for new book stalls in Dubai used to be tough. However, now it is fun and exciting because it is almost like an adventurous sport. You read about a popular spot on the internet, and you rush to the place, not knowing in what way it might surprise you.
There are many great places to explore, like Kinokuniya, Booktopic, and The Old Library, where you can find new books, old books, and rare ones too. So, it is not wrong to declare Dubai a wonderful city for anyone who loves to read. Let’s dig into the 10 best book stalls that you should visit in the big city.
Finding the Hidden Book Stalls in Dubai for Bibliophiles
- Kinokuniyas
It is located in The Dubai Mall. The location is a massive 68,000-square-foot bookstore that offers over half a million books and magazines in multiple languages. You will find a few in every language, such as English, Arabic, Japanese, French, German, and even Chinese. This means manuscripts of Gulf publishers, as well as others, have been brought together for you under the same roof.
- WHSmith
This is a UK-based bookstore, which is a great spot for finding the latest bestsellers, classic novels, and engaging non-fiction. The store is full of well-informed staff members who can help you find the best reads.
- Booktopia
Booktopia is an independent bookstore that has been serving the Dubai community for over 25 years. It is run by a passionate family with a vision of making books the heroes. The store offers a thoughtfully curated collection of both Arabic and English books.
- Bookends
The UAE’s largest online marketplace for pre-loved books is Bookends. It is a popular spot among the other book stalls in Dubai, which started online and has now opened its first physical store in Dubai Silicon Oasis. You should definitely visit it as it is the locals’ much-loved.
- Virgin Megastore
Found in the Dubai Mall, this is a major destination for book lovers. Yes, Virgin Megastore offers the bibliophiles a large selection alongside other entertainment options. For instance, a wide selection of books, including fiction, non-fiction, self-help, children’s books, and even luxury art and photography books from brands like Assouline. Hence, this is a nice and calm spot that can help you unwind.
- Al Mutanabbi Bookshop
A once large book retailer in the GCC area, this shop is located in Al Karama near Burjuman Centre. It gives its customers a wide range of affordable manuscripts. The stall also offers a variety of items, including comics, novels, biographies, fiction, and textbooks. In a nutshell, there is nothing that you won’t find there.
- Book World
The next one is located in Al Satwa. This bookstore claims to have floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with English books, magazines, and comics. The visitors also shared that you can even rent titles there and get half your money back upon return. Hence, if you are an author looking for inspiration, this is the spot. You will find several encouraging manuscripts here printed by the book publishing Dubai services.
- The Old Library
This one is a well-established library in Dubai, run by community volunteers. It is known for presenting a variety of books and a welcoming environment for readers. Located in Gold & Diamond Park Building 7, this also invites locals to socialize and volunteer in the library. The spot also hosts various events.
- Goyals Books and Beyond
This store, located in Ibn Battuta Mall, simplifies back-to-school shopping by offering books organized by school and class. This is hands-down the greatest help for the student community since 1990.
- Dubai Public Library
If you are looking for a quiet, public space with a rich collection of your favourite books, you must visit one of the many branches, such as the Mohammad Bin Rashid Library, which has a wide selection of Arabic texts and bestsellers. It is located near the Dubai Creek Banks in Al Jaddaf and has over 4.5 million books. Bibliophiles will also find loads of audiobooks and e-books over there, so visiting this library is a must.
The Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which bookstore has the largest collection in Dubai?
If you want the largest collection, you will find it in the Dubai Books Kinokuniya in the Dubai Mall very easily. This shop tops the list with over 500,000 titles in English, Arabic, Japanese, and more. In short, it is a paradise for readers. You will find almost anything here.
Q. Does any stall offer discounts or loyalty programs?
Yes! Shops like House of Prose and BookHero offer great deals on second-hand books. The Magrudy’s and Borders also run seasonal discounts and loyalty cards. So, if you are a frequent buyer, these programs can save you a surprising amount over time.
Q. Are there bookshops that host author events or book clubs?
The Magrudy and Kinokuniya are known for occasionally hosting author signings and literary events. Apart from this, Dubai’s independent book cafés, such as The Lit Room, organize book cover stores and themed discussions. This is a great way to meet fellow readers and lose yourself in stories.
Q. Do Dubai shops for books offer an online ordering option?
The major bookstores of the big city are again Kinokuniya, Magrudy’s, and Borders. They all offer online shopping with delivery across the UAE. However, you can also browse the internet, order, and get your next read delivered right to your doorstep.
The Summary
As we wrap up, here is a reminder for you that Dubai is a great place for book lovers. It has many book stalls and shops where you can find manuscripts in English, Arabic, and other languages, such as Kinokuniya. It has an elaborate variety of novels.
Some places also sell second-hand books at low prices. Hence, you can also find comics, kids’ books, and rare titles on these spots. Moving on, many book stalls in Dubai offer discounts or loyalty cards. They will also let you host book clubs and author events. This means the stalls are everywhere. It is you who has to find the nearest one and visit it.