Back to school shopping guide under Dh1000 for UAE parents: Smart picks for a winning 2025

Back-to-school season is here, and UAE parents are on the lookout for smart, budget-friendly essentials that won’t break the bank, as well as those you might want to invest in, So, if you’re hunting for the perfect backpack, a sturdy lunchbox, or handy stationery sets, finding quality gear under Dh1000 is totally possible—and easier than you think. This guide rounds up the best buys that combine style, durability, and practicality to help your child start the new academic year confidently. From must-have storage organisers to hydration essentials, we’ve got you covered with affordable picks that make school life smoother and more fun—all without stretching your wallet.

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Dh1000 and under: Smart, affordable essentials

Best backpacks

A great backpack is the backbone of every student’s gear — literally! When shopping on a budget, focus on durability and comfort first. Look for padded, adjustable shoulder straps and a breathable back panel to ease the load during long school days. Multiple compartments help keep books, gadgets, and stationery organized and easily accessible. Water-resistant fabrics add extra protection for those unexpected rainy days. And of course, pick a design your child loves — because a backpack that feels good and looks good is one they will actually want to carry.

Here are some options, and for more, check out our full list here:

Look for good stationery sets

Stationery might seem like a small detail, but the right set can make a huge difference in a student’s productivity and enthusiasm for schoolwork. When picking stationery sets under Dh 1000, focus on variety and quality. A good set should include essentials like pens, pencils, erasers, sharpeners, rulers, and highlighters—everything needed for note-taking, drawing, and organizing assignments. Look for smooth-writing pens and durable pencils that won’t break easily. Bonus points if the set comes in a handy case to keep everything neat and portable. Quality stationery not only helps students stay organized but also makes studying more enjoyable and efficient.

Need ideas? Check our list below and for more, see our guide here:

Lunch boxes and water bottles

Keeping lunch fresh and staying hydrated throughout the school day are essentials every student needs. When shopping under Dh 1000, look for lunch boxes that are sturdy, leak-proof, and easy to clean. Compartments are a great bonus, they help keep different foods separate and make meals more appealing. For water bottles, choose BPA-free, durable bottles that are spill-resistant and fit comfortably in backpacks. Insulated bottles are ideal for keeping drinks cool, especially in the UAE’s warm climate. A reliable lunch box and water bottle combo not only supports healthy eating and hydration habits but also makes school days smoother and more enjoyable.

Look for solid storage organisers

A clutter-free study space is key to staying focused and productive. Solid storage organisers under Dh 1000 can help keep your child’s desk neat and their supplies easy to find. Look for organisers with multiple compartments or drawers that can hold stationery, notebooks, and small gadgets. Durable materials like sturdy plastic or wood ensure they last the whole school year. Compact designs that fit neatly on desks or shelves are perfect for maximizing space, especially in smaller rooms. With the right storage organiser, students can develop good habits of tidiness and make study time more efficient and stress-free.

Here's a few suggestions from Amazon's top-rated products.

Above Dh 1200: Upgrade your back-to-school tech kit

For students ready to elevate their learning, investing above Dh 1200 can unlock powerful tech essentials. When choosing earphones, look for features like clear sound quality, comfortable fit, and noise isolation to help your child focus during study sessions or online classes. Tablets are a versatile tool, opt for ones with strong battery life, responsive touchscreens, and enough storage to handle apps, textbooks, and projects. If you need budget tablets, check our list here.

Don’t forget a reliable power bank to keep devices charged on the go, especially during long school days. Prioritize compact, lightweight options with fast charging to stay powered up without adding bulk. Upgrading these essentials means smoother, smarter studying and a tech-savvy start to the school year.

Above Dh1500: Laptops for school and university students

When it comes to serious studying, a laptop is a must-have for both school and university students. For budgets above Dh 1500, look for devices that balance performance and portability, fast processors, at least 8GB RAM, and solid-state drives (SSD) for speedy boot times and quick access to files. A comfortable keyboard and a crisp display make long study sessions easier on the eyes and hands. Battery life is key, so opt for laptops that can last through a full day of classes and assignments. Whether it’s writing essays, creating presentations, or running specialized software, a reliable laptop ensures students stay productive and prepared for anything the school year throws their way.

Here's some of the top-rated products on Amazon too, on discounts.

Check out our full list here.

Getting ready for the new school year doesn’t have to break the bank. From smart, affordable essentials under Dh 1000 to upgrading your tech kit with tablets, earphones, and power banks above Dh 1200—and investing in a reliable laptop for Dh 1500 and up—there’s something for every student’s needs and budget. The key is choosing items that combine practicality, durability, and comfort, helping students stay organised, focused, and motivated throughout the year. With the right tools in hand, your child will be set to tackle school with confidence and ease. Here’s to a productive, fun, and successful academic journey ahead!