Food delivery & groceries
Students often underestimate the impact of food expenses and how they can constitute a significant cornerstone of a student’s budget. Tipping the scale between pricey meals and cheap options is vital. Similarly, digital subscriptions — whether they are for transport, food delivery, or streaming — have the potential to be economical, or the opposite, to a student’s finances depending on their usage. This guide will assist international students in making the right choices about food, subscriptions, and digital services.
Where to Shop for Food
Best Subscriptions for Students
Tip from student who saved more than 3000 dirhams (~800$) on food delivery: Use Talabat Pro or Careem Plus for discount subscriptions — often pays off in 2–3 orders.
Where to Eat Affordably
Documents & Rules to Know
• No student ID discounts in most grocery stores — only some apps or university-specific codes apply.
• Food import regulations are strict — avoid bringing non-declared meat or dairy from abroad.
• Some dormitories don’t allow cooking — always check your housing contract.
Pitfalls to Avoid
• Over-relying on delivery apps: Small orders can become expensive due to fees.
• Missing grocery loyalty points: Register for Carrefour/Lulu points to earn cashback.
• Not budgeting for snacks/coffee: Many students overlook these daily costs.
• Buying without checking prices in Dirhams: Imported brands can be 3–5x more expensive.