If you have lived in the UAE for any length of time, you have heard of “1 to 10” shops. These budget variety stores — sometimes called discount centres or department stores — pack thousands of affordable products under one roof, from homeware and toys to stationery, gift items, and seasonal decorations. For anyone shopping for gifts on a budget, they are a genuine secret weapon. This guide explains what they are, where to find the best ones across the Emirates, and how to shop them smartly.
What Is a “1 to 10” Shop?
The name comes from the value-pricing concept these stores are built on — rows of products at low, round price points, where almost everything is affordable and very little is expensive. Think of them as the UAE’s answer to the variety or dollar store, but often far larger, with enormous ranges across categories. Many are open very late or even 24 hours.
What You Can Buy
- Gift items: gift boxes, wrapping, decorative pieces, small toys, novelty gifts
- Homeware: kitchen tools, storage, dcor, and organising essentials
- Stationery: notebooks, pens, art supplies, and party goods
- Seasonal: Ramadan and Eid decorations, party supplies, gift envelopes
- Toys and kids’ items at a fraction of mall prices
The Best Budget Variety Stores by Emirate
Each emirate has its own well-loved discount destinations. We have covered them in detail in dedicated guides:
- Best budget gift shops in Dubai
- Best discount & variety stores in Sharjah
- Best budget & discount stores in Ajman
- Affordable gifts in Abu Dhabi
Standout names known across the country include Day to Day department stores, the 1 To 10 Center and Gate 1 to 10 shops, Ten Markets, and Gift Mart — many of which are reviewed in the emirate guides above.
How to Shop Them Smartly
- Go with a list. The sheer range is overwhelming — a list keeps you focused.
- Check quality item by item. Prices are low, so inspect before you buy.
- Stock up on gift basics: wrapping, boxes, and cards cost a fraction of mall prices.
- Visit late. Many stay open past midnight and are quieter in the evening.
Budget Gifting Done Right
A low price tag does not mean a low-effort gift. Pair an affordable find with beautiful wrapping and a handwritten note and it can feel just as thoughtful as something far pricier — see our guide to cheap gifts under 50 AED. For the full premium-to-budget picture, our guide to where to buy gifts in Dubai covers every tier.
Store names, locations, and opening hours change — please verify details before visiting. Ratings referenced are from public Google reviews at the time of writing.
