Best Bookstores in Dubai are more than just shops — they’re cultural sanctuaries where imagination thrives, ideas flourish, and stories from around the world find new homes. Whether you’re a passionate reader, a student hunting for textbooks, or a parent looking for fun educational material for your kids, Dubai’s bookstores have something special waiting for you.
Dubai’s literary scene is as diverse as its population. The city blends modern retail concepts with cozy reading corners and community-driven initiatives that celebrate the written word. In this UAE Explorer feature, we’ll take you through the most popular bookstores in Dubai, what makes them stand out, and how they continue to nurture the reading culture in the UAE.
1. Kinokuniya Dubai – The Reader’s Paradise in The Dubai Mall
When it comes to the best bookstores in Dubai, Kinokuniya Dubai tops nearly every list. Located inside The Dubai Mall, this massive Japanese bookstore offers an extraordinary range of books across every imaginable genre — fiction, non-fiction, manga, art, design, business, language learning, and more.
Spanning over 68,000 square feet, Kinokuniya is a dream destination for every bookworm. It features over half a million titles in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, Japanese, French, and German. You can lose yourself for hours exploring different sections, from classic literature to the latest bestsellers.
What makes Kinokuniya even more unique is its cultural diversity and customer experience. The store regularly hosts book signings, art events, and author meetups. Its spacious, quiet reading areas create the perfect atmosphere for visitors to relax with a book.
Highlights:
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Over 500,000 titles available.
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Books in multiple languages.
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Convenient location inside The Dubai Mall.
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Regular author events and art showcases.
2. BookHero – Dubai’s Affordable and Sustainable Bookstore
BookHero stands out for its simple yet powerful concept — pre-loved books at unbeatable prices. Founded to promote sustainability and accessibility, BookHero is a self-service bookstore that allows readers to buy high-quality second-hand books at incredibly low prices.
The store operates on an honor-based system. Readers can pick a book, pay via cash box or online, and enjoy their new read — no staff, no pressure, just pure love for reading. You’ll find everything from modern thrillers and travel guides to children’s stories and cookbooks.
BookHero has several pop-up locations across Dubai, including Times Square Center, Dubai Marina Mall, and other popular spots. Its mission is to make reading affordable and eco-friendly while fostering a community that loves to share and reuse.
Highlights:
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Sustainable, second-hand book model.
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Affordable books in excellent condition.
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Self-service concept with trust-based payment.
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Multiple locations across Dubai.
3. Magrudy’s – A Legacy of Literature and Learning
One of the oldest and most beloved bookstores in Dubai, Magrudy’s has been serving readers since 1975. What started as a family business has grown into a household name associated with quality, trust, and education.
Magrudy’s offers an impressive range of books for all age groups — from international bestsellers and academic references to children’s storybooks and Arabic literature. It also sells stationery, educational toys, and school supplies, making it a one-stop shop for families and students.
The bookstore’s charm lies in its warm, personal atmosphere. Unlike large retail chains, Magrudy’s focuses on customer relationships. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to help you find the perfect book.
Highlights:
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Established in 1975 – a Dubai legacy.
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Great selection of academic, literary, and children’s books.
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Family-friendly environment.
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Several branches across the UAE.
4. Borders Bookstore – Modern Reading Experience with a Café Twist
Another name synonymous with top bookstores in Dubai is Borders. Known for combining the love of books with a relaxed café-style environment, Borders encourages readers to browse leisurely while sipping on a coffee.
Borders offers a wide range of international titles, magazines, and educational resources. It’s especially popular among young professionals and students who enjoy a modern, open-space environment.
Many Dubai residents love spending their weekends here — browsing the latest novels, enjoying a coffee, and catching up on new releases.
Highlights:
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Combines bookstore and café experience.
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Excellent selection of international books and magazines.
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Welcoming, casual environment.
5. Goyal’s Books and Beyond – For Academic and Professional Readers
If you’re a student, researcher, or professional, Goyal’s Books and Beyond should be your first stop. This specialized bookstore in Dubai is dedicated to academic, technical, and professional materials.
From school textbooks and reference guides to professional certifications and exam materials, Goyal’s serves Dubai’s large academic community. It also provides educational resources for schools and universities across the UAE.
Goyal’s isn’t just about selling books — it’s about supporting education. Many schools and institutions rely on them for their annual book lists and supplies.
Highlights:
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Specialized in educational and academic materials.
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Partnered with schools and universities.
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Supplies textbooks, reference guides, and exam prep resources.
6. Al Munna Bookshop – A Hidden Gem for Textbooks and Supplies
Al Munna Bookshop is another fantastic option for students and educators in Dubai. Known for its wide range of academic and stationery supplies, Al Munna provides everything from international school textbooks to office essentials.
It may not be as massive as Kinokuniya or Borders, but its service and reliability have earned it a loyal customer base. The staff are highly knowledgeable and can order rare or out-of-stock titles upon request.
Highlights:
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Specializes in school and college textbooks.
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Friendly and efficient customer service.
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Offers stationery and educational materials.
7. House of Prose – The Treasure Trove of Used Books
For those who love the thrill of discovery, House of Prose is a must-visit bookstore in Dubai. Located in several malls, including Dubai Garden Centre and Times Square Center, this store specializes in second-hand books — but the quality and selection often surprise first-time visitors.
The store offers novels, biographies, travel books, cookbooks, and more — all neatly arranged and priced fairly. The owner and staff are passionate about reading, which creates an authentic, welcoming atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Highlights:
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Pre-loved books in great condition.
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Affordable prices and diverse collection.
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Cozy, community-driven bookstore.
8. Booktopia – The Online Haven for Readers in Dubai
If convenience matters to you, Booktopia UAE is one of the best online bookstores in Dubai. It offers a massive catalog of books across genres — from fiction and self-help to business, education, and art.
Booktopia provides free or affordable delivery across the UAE, often with exclusive discounts and deals. It’s perfect for those who prefer online shopping or can’t find specific titles in physical stores.
Highlights:
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Extensive online catalog.
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Quick UAE-wide delivery.
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Frequent deals and discounts.
9. Bookworm – A Whimsical World for Young Readers
Located in Jumeirah, Bookworm is a family-run bookstore that caters mainly to children and young readers. Its cheerful decor and handpicked selection of children’s literature make it a delightful space for families.
Parents love Bookworm for its educational yet entertaining approach. It regularly hosts storytelling sessions, workshops, and reading clubs, encouraging children to embrace reading from an early age.
Highlights:
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Specializes in children’s books.
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Regular storytelling and workshops.
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Friendly, family-oriented space.
10. Virgin Megastore – Books, Music, and Lifestyle Combined
While Virgin Megastore is famous for electronics and entertainment, it also deserves a spot among the best bookstores in Dubai. Each branch features a substantial book section with everything from new releases to graphic novels and travel guides.
Virgin Megastore caters to a modern audience that enjoys books alongside games, gadgets, and music. It’s the perfect place for shoppers looking for an all-in-one retail experience.
Highlights:
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Wide book selection across genres.
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Combines reading with lifestyle and entertainment.
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Located in major malls across Dubai.
11. Community Book Fairs and Pop-Up Libraries
Beyond traditional bookstores, Dubai regularly hosts book fairs, pop-up libraries, and reading festivals. Events like the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature attract global authors and readers, turning Dubai into a hub of storytelling and knowledge exchange.
Pop-up book stalls at malls, beaches, and public parks further encourage reading among residents and tourists. Many of these events also feature Arabic literature and local authors, promoting cultural diversity.
12. Why Dubai Is a Haven for Book Lovers
Dubai’s bookstore culture reflects its global identity. The city blends traditional charm with modern innovation — you can find centuries-old classics in one shop and AI-written novels in another. Bookstores here aren’t just about selling books; they’re about building connections.
With the government supporting literacy initiatives and reading programs, Dubai continues to position itself as a regional center for literature and education. Whether you prefer digital reads or old-fashioned hardcovers, Dubai offers both worlds in harmony.
13. Tips for Visiting Bookstores in Dubai
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Plan ahead: Some stores have multiple branches; check which one stocks your preferred genre.
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Ask for deals: Many bookstores offer seasonal discounts or loyalty cards.
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Explore second-hand shops: They often have hidden treasures at a fraction of the price.
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Join events: Book clubs, author signings, and workshops are great for meeting fellow readers.
FAQs About Bookstores in Dubai
Here are the FAQs of Best Book stores in Dubai:
1. What is the best bookstore in Dubai for international books?
Kinokuniya Dubai at The Dubai Mall is widely considered the best for international titles due to its vast multilingual collection.
2. Which bookstore in Dubai offers second-hand books?
BookHero and House of Prose specialize in affordable pre-loved books across various genres.
3. Where can I buy textbooks in Dubai?
Goyal’s Books and Beyond and Al Munna Bookshop are top choices for academic and educational materials.
4. Is there any bookstore for children in Dubai?
Yes, Bookworm in Jumeirah focuses exclusively on children’s literature and family-friendly reading activities.
5. Can I order books online in Dubai?
Yes, Booktopia UAE and Kinokuniya both offer online shopping and nationwide delivery.
6. Are there any bookstores with cafés in Dubai?
Borders Bookstore provides a café-style environment where readers can enjoy coffee while browsing.
7. What are the most budget-friendly bookstores in Dubai?
BookHero and House of Prose are ideal for those looking for affordable reads.
8. Does Dubai host any annual book fairs?
Yes, the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is one of the largest literary events in the Middle East.
9. Are Arabic books available in Dubai bookstores?
Absolutely. Most major bookstores like Magrudy’s and Kinokuniya offer Arabic literature sections.
10. Which bookstore in Dubai is best for collectors or rare books?
Kinokuniya and House of Prose often carry limited editions and rare finds, perfect for collectors.