š” Quick Answer: Is Dubai’s Second Hand Market Worth It?
The Dubai second hand market is MASSIVE and can save you 40-70% on everything from furniture to electronics. Thanks to Dubai’s high expat turnover (30-40% leave within first few years), you’ll find almost-new items at huge discounts. Best platforms are Facebook Marketplace for fast deals, Dubizzle for bigger items like cars, and Instagram curated shops for quality-checked goods. Peak season is May-July when people leave Dubai. Just be smart about scams and always test items before buying.
ā±ļø Read time: 12 minutes | š° Potential savings: 30,000+ AED per year
Ok so heres the thing about Dubai second hand market… when I first moved here 4+ years ago, I had NO idea how massive and honestly kind of overwhelming the whole second hand scene is. Like I remember standing in my empty apartment thinking “where do people even buy used stuff here?” and tbh I made SO many mistakes before figuring out the Dubai second hand market actually works.
Let me share what I wish someone had told me when I first started navigating this whole thing ā because fr, the Dubai second hand market is completely different from what you’d expect if you’ve lived anywhere else.
āļø Written by Naz
Your Dubai Insider
As a proud resident of this bustling city for over 4 years, I’ve devoted my time to exploring Dubai’s vibrant cultural life, different ways of living, and endless possibilities. My experiences enable me to guide you through job searches, housing hunts, commuting, and vehicle purchases in Dubai ā including navigating the incredible second hand market that’s saved me thousands of dirhams.
š Living in Dubai for 4+ years | šÆ Helping newcomers navigate Dubai life | š° Second hand market expert | š Last Updated: December 2025
Why the Dubai Second Hand Market is Actually Huge (and Getting Bigger)
So first things first ā the Dubai second hand market is MASSIVE. Like way bigger than you’d think for a city thats known for luxury shopping and new everything. But heres why it makes sense:
People are constantly moving in and out of Dubai. I mean like.. seriously constantly. Someone gets a new job overseas, someone’s visa expires, someone decides to upgrade their apartment ā and suddenly they need to sell everything FAST. This creates this really unique secondhand economy where you can find almost-new stuff for like 50-70% off retail prices.
Ngl when I bought my first secondhand couch from this British couple moving back to London, I paid 800 AED for something that cost them 4,000 AED just 8 months earlier. The couch looked brand new tbh. That’s when I realized the Dubai second hand market is literally a goldmine if you know where to look.
The expat turnover rate here is wild ā some studies show like 30-40% of expats leave within the first few years. Each person leaving = furniture, electronics, cars, everything going up for sale. The Dubai second hand market basically runs on this constant cycle of people coming and going.
Where to Actually Find Good Deals in Dubai Second Hand Market
Facebook Marketplace Dubai (My Go-To Spot)
Ok so Facebook Marketplace is probably THE biggest part of the Dubai second hand market right now. There are specific groups like:
- Dubai Buy and Sell
- Expats Leaving Dubai – Furniture & Electronics
- Dubai Second Hand Items
- Marina/JLT/JBR Buy & Sell groups (area-specific ones)
I check these groups literally every other day lol. The thing about the Dubai second hand market on Facebook is you gotta be FAST. Good deals disappear in like an hour, sometimes minutes. I once saw a PS5 for 1,200 AED (retail was like 2,000+) and by the time I messaged the seller 20 minutes later it was already sold.
Pro tip from my mistakes: Always check the seller’s profile before going to see stuff. If their account looks sketchy or super new, be careful. The Dubai second hand market has some scammers unfortunately but most people are genuine.
Dubizzle (The OG Platform)
Dubizzle is like the grandfather of Dubai second hand market platforms. Its been around forever and honestly still really useful for bigger items. I bought my car through Dubizzle, my washing machine, and even my office desk.
The interface is kinda dated ngl but it works. You can filter by location which is SUPER helpful in Dubai because driving from JBR to Mirdif to pick up a 100 AED lamp makes no sense traffic-wise. The Dubai second hand market on Dubizzle tends to have more serious sellers ā people who list detailed descriptions and actual good photos.
š” Pro tip: Use Facebook for speed, Dubizzle for big purchases, Instagram for quality-checked items
Instagram Thrift Stores and Second Hand Shops
Theres this whole side of the Dubai second hand market on Instagram that I didnt know about for like 2 years. There are accounts that curate secondhand items ā mostly furniture, home decor, and designer stuff. Some popular ones:
- @thriftuae
- @dubaisecondhand
- @retrouverdubai
These Instagram-based Dubai second hand market sellers usually pick up items from people leaving and then resell them. So prices are a bit higher than buying directly from someone leaving, but the quality control is better and you dont have to deal with flaky sellers.
What You Can Actually Find in Dubai Second Hand Market
Furniture (The Best Category IMO)
Furniture is where the Dubai second hand market REALLY shines. People buy expensive stuff from Marina Home, Pan Emirates, IKEA, whatever ā use it for a year or two ā then need to sell it fast because their leaving.
I furnished my entire 1-bedroom apartment for under 5,000 AED through the Dubai second hand market:
- Sofa set: 1,200 AED (was 4,500 new)
- Dining table + 4 chairs: 600 AED
- Bed frame + mattress: 1,500 AED (mattress was barely used)
- TV stand: 300 AED
- Coffee table: 200 AED
- Various decor and lamps: ~1,200 AED
The same stuff new would’ve cost me like 15,000+ AED easily. The Dubai second hand market for furniture is seriously unbeatable if your patient and picky.
Warning from personal experience: ALWAYS check mattresses carefully. Like really carefully. I almost bought one that looked fine in photos but had weird stains when I saw it in person. Now I only buy mattresses from the Dubai second hand market if there still wrapped or from sellers who have proof of purchase and recent purchase date.
Electronics and Appliances
The Dubai second hand market for electronics is interesting. You can find great deals BUT you gotta be more careful than with furniture. I’ve had good and bad experiences tbh.
Good experiences:
- Bought a Samsung 55″ TV for 1,000 AED (was like 2,500 new) ā still using it 2 years later
- Got a Dyson vacuum for 450 AED from a family leaving (retail 1,800 AED)
- Nintendo Switch + games for 800 AED
Bad experience:
- Bought a “barely used” iPhone that died after 3 weeks (the guy ghosted me after)
- Got a washing machine that had weird issues with the spin cycle
For electronics in the Dubai second hand market, I learned to:
- Always test stuff before paying
- Meet in public places if possible
- Check serial numbers aren’t reported stolen
- Get original boxes and receipts when possible
Baby and Kids Stuff
If you have kids, the Dubai second hand market is your best friend fr. Kids grow out of stuff SO fast that parents are constantly selling barely-used items. You can find:
- Strollers (I’ve seen Bugaboos for 30% of retail price)
- Car seats that were used for like 6 months
- Toys, books, clothes
- Baby monitors, bouncers, playpens
The Dubai parents community is really active in buying and selling, and most people take good care of baby items. Plus everyone knows how expensive baby stuff is new so people are usually reasonable with pricing.
Gym Equipment (Post-Pandemic Gold)
Lol ok so during COVID, everyone bought home gym equipment. Then gyms reopened and suddenly the Dubai second hand market was FLOODED with treadmills, dumbbells, yoga mats, everything. Even now in 2025, you can still find good deals.
I bought a set of adjustable dumbbells for 300 AED that cost like 900 AED new. Barely used because the guy only worked out at home for like 3 months before going back to his gym.
š This is the ACTUAL breakdown of how I furnished my entire 1-bedroom apartment through Dubai second hand market – saved over 10,000 AED!
How to Navigate Dubai Second Hand Market Without Getting Scammed
Ok real talk ā I’ve been scammed once and almost scammed like 3 other times in the Dubai second hand market. Here’s what I learned:
Red Flags I Watch For:
- Price too good to be true ā If someone’s selling a MacBook Pro for 500 AED, its either stolen, broken, or a scam
- Pushy sellers ā Anyone who’s super pushy about meeting ASAP or doing bank transfer before meeting = suspicious
- Won’t let you test items ā Big red flag in Dubai second hand market
- Only WhatsApp number, no profile ā Some legitimate sellers do this but be extra careful
- Stock photos ā If all their listing photos look professional/stock photos, they might not actually have the item
Safety Tips for Dubai Second Hand Market:
- Meet in public places (mall parking lots are good)
- Bring someone with you for expensive items
- Count money carefully before handing it over
- Test everything before paying
- Trust your gut ā if something feels off, walk away
I once drove to this apartment in Deira to buy a dining table and the guy seemed really sketchy when I got there. The table was fine but the whole vibe was weird so I just said “sorry, changed my mind” and left. Better safe than sorry when dealing with the Dubai second hand market.
Best Times to Shop Dubai Second Hand Market
Timing matters SO MUCH in the Dubai second hand market. Heres what I’ve noticed over 4 years:
Peak selling season: May-July (summer when lots of people leave Dubai)
- Prices are better because sellers are desperate to offload stuff before flights
- Way more selection
- But also more competition from other buyers
Good deals season: December-January (after New Year when people declutter or leave after holiday season)
Avoid: September-October (back to school, people settling in, less sellers)
The Dubai second hand market literally has seasons lol. In June/July I see probably 3x more listings than in October.
š Over 4 years of observations – May-July is absolutely THE BEST time to shop Dubai second hand market with 3x more listings!
My Biggest Dubai Second Hand Market Success Stories
Let me brag a bit about my best finds in the Dubai second hand market:
-
Italian leather sofa ā Paid 2,500 AED for a sofa that cost 12,000 AED new. The couple bought it 4 months before getting transferred to Abu Dhabi. Still my favorite piece of furniture.
-
Gaming setup ā Got a gaming chair (800 AED value) for 250 AED, a desk for 300 AED, and a monitor for 400 AED ā all from the same seller who was leaving. Total savings: probably 60% off retail.
-
Designer handbag ā Ok this was through one of those Instagram curated Dubai second hand market accounts. Got an authentic Coach bag for 400 AED (verified authenticity, came with original packaging). Would’ve been 1,500+ AED new.
-
Car (yes really) ā Bought my Nissan Sunny 2019 model for 28,000 AED through the Dubai second hand market (Dubizzle). Same car new was like 55,000+ AED. The owner had to leave Dubai suddenly for a family emergency so needed to sell fast.
The Dubai second hand market has literally saved me THOUSANDS of dirhams over the years. Like probably 30,000+ AED in savings easily.
š° These are actual purchases made over 4+ years – total savings of 41,600 AED compared to buying everything new!
Common Mistakes People Make in Dubai Second Hand Market
Based on what I’ve seen and my own stupid mistakes:
Not negotiating ā Everything is negotiable in Dubai second hand market. If something’s listed for 500 AED, offer 400 AED. Most sellers expect negotiation.
Not checking items properly ā I bought a microwave once without testing it (just trusted the seller). Got home, didnt work. Lesson learned ā ALWAYS test electronics.
Being too picky ā Some people expect perfection from the Dubai second hand market. Its used stuff ā there will be minor scratches, wear, etc. Be realistic about condition.
Hesitating too long ā Good deals go FAST. If you see something great, move quickly or someone else will grab it.
Not asking about delivery ā Some sellers in Dubai second hand market will deliver for free or small fee, especially if their trying to clear stuff out fast. Always ask.
š Pro Tips: Master Dubai Second Hand Market
šÆ Timing is Everything
Shop during May-July when expats are leaving Dubai en masse. Prices drop by 20-30% because sellers are desperate to offload items before their flights. You’ll see 3x more listings compared to October. One seller told me “just take it for 500 AED, I fly tomorrow” for a dining set originally listed at 1,200 AED.
š° Real example: Italian leather sofa worth 12,000 AED ā bought for 2,500 AED in June
š” The 20-Minute Rule
Good deals on Facebook Marketplace disappear in under an hour, sometimes minutes. Set notifications for key groups and check every other day. When you see something great, message immediately ā don’t wait to “think about it.” I missed a PS5 for 1,200 AED because I hesitated for 20 minutes.
ā” Speed matters: Best deals gone in 15-60 minutes
š Location-Based Filtering Saves Hours
Always filter by your area on Dubizzle. Driving from JBR to Mirdif in Dubai traffic for a 100 AED lamp makes zero sense financially or time-wise. Stick to items within 15-20 minutes drive max. I only browse listings in Marina, JLT, and nearby areas now ā saves me hours every week.
ā° Time saved: 2-3 hours per shopping trip
š The Profile Check Method
Before meeting any seller, spend 2 minutes checking their Facebook profile. Look for: account age (older is better), mutual friends, activity history, and other listings. Super new accounts or profiles with zero personal info = red flag. This simple check has saved me from 3 potential scam situations.
š”ļø Scam prevention: 2-minute profile check eliminates 80% of sketchy sellers
š° The Negotiation Sweet Spot
Everything is negotiable, but don’t lowball too hard. Offer 15-25% below asking price as your starting point. If something’s listed for 500 AED, offer 400 AED. Most sellers expect negotiation and price accordingly. I’ve found 20% off is the sweet spot where sellers don’t get offended but you still save money.
šÆ Success rate: 80% of sellers accept 15-25% below asking price
š Electronics Testing Protocol
NEVER buy electronics without testing them first. Bring your own charging cables if needed. For TVs, check all HDMI ports and settings. For phones, verify battery health and check for iCloud/Google locks. I once bought a “barely used” iPhone that died after 3 weeks because I didn’t test it properly ā the guy ghosted me after.
ā Must test: Power on, all ports, settings, battery life, no locks
šļø Mattress Safety Rule
Only buy mattresses that are still wrapped OR have proof of purchase with recent date (within 6 months). Check for stains, smells, and wear patterns carefully. I almost bought one that looked fine in photos but had weird stains in person. Now I’m super picky about mattresses ā it’s worth paying slightly more for peace of mind.
šļø My rule: Wrapped/sealed OR proof of purchase within 6 months only
š¦ Ask About Delivery
Many sellers moving out of Dubai will deliver items for free or small fees (50-100 AED) because they’re clearing out anyway. Always ask “Can you deliver?” before arranging pickup. I’ve saved probably 500+ AED in pickup truck rentals just by asking this question. Worst they can say is no.
š” Pro move: “Can you deliver?” ā 60% say yes for free/small fee
The Future of Dubai Second Hand Market
Honestly the Dubai second hand market keeps growing. More platforms are popping up, people are more environmentally conscious about reusing stuff, and with economic ups and downs, more people are open to buying secondhand.
I’ve noticed more organized secondhand stores opening in areas like Karama and Al Quoz. Theres even popup secondhand markets now at places like Ripe Market where people sell their stuff directly.
The sustainability angle is becoming bigger too ā lots of younger expats in Dubai second hand market specifically look for secondhand to reduce waste. Its not just about saving money anymore (though that’s still the main reason lol).
ā Frequently Asked Questions About Dubai Second Hand Market
Final Thoughts on Dubai Second Hand Market
Look, after 4+ years of regularly buying and occasionally selling through the Dubai second hand market, I can say its one of the best parts of living here that nobody really talks about. You can furnish an entire apartment, buy a car, get electronics, whatever ā all for like 40-60% less than retail.
Just be smart about it. Check items properly, meet in safe places, trust your instincts, and dont be afraid to walk away from sketchy situations.
The Dubai second hand market has this really cool community vibe too ā most people are genuinely helpful, especially in the Facebook groups. I’ve made actual friends through buying stuff lol. Everyone’s in the same boat of trying to navigate life in Dubai.
My advice: Start with smaller items to get comfortable with how the Dubai second hand market works. Buy a lamp, a coffee table, some books. Then work your way up to bigger purchases like furniture and electronics once you feel confident.
And seriously ā if your new to Dubai and trying to furnish a place, check out the Dubai second hand market before dropping thousands at retail stores. Your bank account will thank you fr.
šÆ Key Takeaways: Dubai Second Hand Market
- Massive Savings: Save 40-70% off retail prices on everything from furniture to cars. Over 4 years, you can save 30,000+ AED easily through smart secondhand shopping.
- Platform Strategy: Use Facebook Marketplace for quick furniture deals (check every other day), Dubizzle for cars and appliances, Instagram thrift shops for curated designer items.
- Timing is Crucial: Shop May-July when expats are leaving – 3x more listings and 20-30% better prices. Avoid September-October when inventory is low.
- Speed Matters: Good deals on Facebook disappear in 15-60 minutes. Set notifications, check frequently, and message immediately when you see something great.
- Safety First: Check seller profiles, meet in public places, test all electronics, never send money before seeing items, and trust your gut about sketchy situations.
- Always Negotiate: Offer 15-25% below asking price as starting point. Most sellers expect negotiation and price accordingly – you can save thousands extra just by asking.
- High Turnover = Great Deals: Dubai’s 30-40% expat turnover rate creates constant supply of almost-new items from people leaving fast.
- Full Apartment Possible: You can furnish an entire 1-bedroom for 5,000 AED vs 15,000+ new. Takes 2-3 weeks of active searching but savings are massive.
š” Bottom Line
The Dubai second hand market is one of the best-kept secrets about living here. Start with smaller items to get comfortable, then work your way up to furniture and bigger purchases. Be smart, stay safe, and watch your savings grow. Your bank account will thank you fr! š
P.S. This info is from December 2025 but tbh things change fast in Dubai second hand market so double check everything! And if ur reading this later… hope things have gotten even better lol. Also if you find any amazing deals please dont tell everyone because I want them for myself jk jk š
