Where to buy second-hand books in Dubai?

In a city known for its towering malls and polished bookstores, many are surprised to discover that Dubai’s love for books includes a quiet yet passionate second-hand scene, where each pre-owned page carries its own history and charm.

House of Prose

This long-standing bookstore has become a beloved institution for Dubai’s book lovers. Located in Times Square Center and Jumeirah Plaza, it offers everything from children’s stories to rare non-fiction titles. What sets House of Prose apart is its buy-back policy: you can return the book after reading and get a part of your money back. This creates a revolving library feel and encourages readers to explore new genres without commitment. The atmosphere is warm and unhurried, with a loyal customer base that treats the space like a literary sanctuary.

BookHero

BookHero operates as more than just a bookshop. With branches in Oasis Mall and Mudon Community Centre, it serves as a community reading hub. The shop supports educational initiatives like the Academic Book Exchange, and its Back to School program helps students access affordable study material. BookHero accepts donated books and sells them at minimal prices, ensuring that stories remain in circulation rather than gathering dust. The vibe is casual and family-friendly, with beanbags and open spaces that invite browsing.

Bookends

An entirely digital option, Bookends.ae allows readers to buy and sell pre-loved books from the comfort of home. This platform was created by two mothers aiming to support literacy and sustainability in the UAE. You can find everything from international bestsellers to academic resources, with new stock updated daily. Listings often include reviews or notes from previous owners, giving every book an added touch of personality. The platform also organizes seasonal fairs where users can meet, exchange books, and attend mini workshops.

Book World Trading

Hidden in the colorful lanes of Satwa, Book World Trading feels like stepping into a time capsule. The shop’s overflowing shelves are filled with worn hardcovers, yellow-paged novels, and textbooks from decades ago. Regulars say the joy is in the hunt—some come looking for one title and leave with armfuls of discoveries. It’s also one of the rare places in Dubai where haggling over a book price feels perfectly acceptable. If you’re lucky, you may stumble upon an out-of-print gem or a first edition quietly waiting to be found.

The Old Library

Tucked inside the Theatre of the Mall of the Emirates, The Old Library is run entirely by volunteers. It’s not a commercial store, but it hosts quarterly book sales where you can grab gently used books for incredibly low prices. The library also organizes children’s storytelling sessions, book clubs, and creative writing workshops. Revenue from sales goes toward maintaining the library and funding free events for the community. Its focus is on English-language books, with strong sections for history, fiction, and children’s literature.

Thrift for Good

Situated in Times Square Center, Thrift for Good is a charity shop that sells second-hand clothes, accessories, and a solid collection of used books. Proceeds support underprivileged children globally. Their books section includes everything from classic fiction to parenting guides and self-help manuals. The items come from community donations and are well-curated. Customers say the experience feels good both ethically and intellectually—every purchase gives back while enriching your own mind.

Circle Café Book Corners

This café chain started as a community idea and now includes book corners in select locations. While not full bookstores, these exchange zones invite customers to leave a book and take one in return. Often, the selections are diverse—children’s books next to business guides or travel memoirs beside poetry anthologies. These corners encourage serendipitous finds and conversations among diners. It’s a casual and warm way to blend reading with social life in a laid-back setting.

Reading for Animals

This pop-up initiative brings second-hand books to market stalls, school fairs, and charity events across Dubai. All proceeds go to local animal rescue groups. The selection is wide and constantly rotating, and volunteers are always eager to suggest titles. Many readers discover the initiative by accident and become loyal patrons. Their stalls are easy to spot—books stacked next to photos of rescued cats and dogs, making each purchase feel like a donation as well as a discovery.

Archies Bookstore

Located in the bustling Karama neighborhood, Archies is a local favorite known for its neatly arranged categories and affordable pricing. It’s particularly popular among students and readers seeking out-of-print textbooks. The owners are happy to recommend titles and even keep requests aside for returning customers. The store caters to a multilingual audience, with sections in English, Hindi, Malayalam, and Arabic. This makes it one of the most culturally diverse bookshops in the city.

Online Marketplaces and Local Swaps

Beyond these stores, Dubai has a thriving digital scene for second-hand books. Platforms like Bookends and local WhatsApp groups or Facebook forums regularly host virtual book swaps. School communities organize term-time textbook exchanges, and neighborhood coffee shops occasionally put out shelves for free book sharing. These grassroots efforts keep reading affordable and accessible, while building connections between residents who might not otherwise cross paths.