Laptop for Dh50? This UAE market offers devices at ultra-low prices

Laptops have become essential for students’ back-to-school preparations, and UAE parents might be surprised to find devices as affordable as Dh50 at a market in Sharjah.

This ‘Used Laptop Market,’ situated at the crossroads of Sharjah’s industrial areas 2, 3, 5, and 6, is a popular spot for those seeking budget-friendly gadgets.

Shanawaz, sales head at Royal Used Computers, mentioned that while prices vary, they start as low as Dh50.

“For instance, a used Chromebook in good condition can be bought for just Dh50. Depending on the brand, specifications, and year of manufacture, prices can go up to Dh300,” he explained.

Affordable and Branded Options

The low prices aren’t limited to entry-level models; even branded laptops are available at reasonable prices.

“Branded laptops from the 6th and 7th generations start at Dh200. For 8th-generation models, prices begin at Dh300, depending on the specs. The 9th-generation laptops start at Dh350, and the 12th-generation models are priced at Dh900.

“An Apple MacBook from 2014 can be purchased for as low as Dh300, while newer models from 2020 to 2022 start at Dh1,200 and above,” Shanawaz added.

Parents looking for high-quality devices for their children’s education can find great deals at this market.

Abdul Rahman, from Giant Used Computer Sales, noted an increase in demand as parents prepare for the new school year. “Many parents are purchasing laptops for their children’s school needs.”

“We offer a variety of laptops and tablets suitable for both students and professionals. Some parents who bought laptops from us last year have even returned to trade in their devices for a newer model, paying a small difference,” Abdul Rahman said.

“These laptops are lightly used and in excellent condition,” he added. “We don’t need to refurbish or repair them as they come to us in near-perfect shape.”

Why Are They So Affordable?

Saleem Kotamal, owner of Unique Used Computers, shed light on the affordability of these gadgets. “We source these laptops from Europe and the US, where they are often used for just a year before being replaced. These barely-used devices are then exported and sold at a significant discount.

For example, a brand new Lenovo Thinkpad E16, which costs Dh3,200, can be found here, barely used for three months, for just Dh900.”