As Ramadan approaches, residents across the UAE are taking advantage of early bulk discounts offered by hypermarkets, supermarkets, and local stores to stock up on essentials. This pre-Ramadan shopping trend not only helps streamline meal preparation but also reduces waste and saves money during the festive season.
Smart Strategies for Bulk Shopping
Many expats are finding bulk buying particularly helpful, allowing them to purchase versatile ingredients that can be used for a variety of meals throughout the month. For Abu Dhabi resident Zoya Shaikh, this preparation extends to investing in larger appliances, such as a spacious fridge, to store pre-prepped food.
"Processing food at home, like making tomato purée and shredding chicken, helps save both time and money,"
Shaikh shared. By preparing ahead, she minimizes household chores during Ramadan, allowing her to focus on spirituality.
Similarly, American expat Shukri Deria emphasized the importance of early shopping for non-perishables like rice and flour, which prevents last-minute purchases at peak prices.
Budgeting for Decorations and Festivities
For many families, Ramadan and Eid celebrations include decorating their homes and purchasing festive clothing. However, these expenses can quickly add up. Jordanian expat Zain Osama recommends buying decorations during sales, reusing items from previous years, and utilizing discount coupons and promo codes for groceries and other essentials.
Avoiding Unnecessary Spending
While discounts and promotions can be tempting, Pakistani expat Nadia Saleem highlighted the importance of careful planning to avoid unnecessary purchases.
"It’s easy to overspend during sales, so sticking to a budget helps save time, energy, and money,"
she explained.
Online Deals and Cashback Offers
The rise of online sales and cashback offers has made it easier for residents to plan their shopping. By setting a budget and purchasing essentials early, many households ensure they are prepared for Ramadan without the stress of last-minute shopping.
As UAE residents gear up for the holy month, the focus remains on smart spending, careful planning, and meaningful preparation, ensuring Ramadan is both a spiritual and financially manageable season.
News Source: Khaleej Times
