Finding a reliable smartphone in the UAE without breaking the bank can be a challenge. But whether you need an affordable secondary device, a first phone for a family member, or just a solid daily driver that covers the essentials, you’d be surprised at the quality you can get for under 300 AED.
Forget spending hours scrolling through countless listings. We’ve done the hard work for you, identifying the best-value smartphones available right now from top brands. This guide will break down the features, pros, and cons of each, complete with direct links to buy them from trusted UAE retailers.
What to Expect from a Smartphone Under 300 AED
Let’s set realistic expectations. At this budget-friendly price point, you should look for a phone that excels at the core essentials:
- Good Battery Life: Enough to last you a full day of moderate use.
- Decent Display: A large, clear screen for Browse and watching videos.
- Sufficient Storage: At least 32GB of internal storage, with the option to expand via a microSD card.
- Capable Camera: A camera that can take clear photos in good lighting.
You won’t find flagship features like 5G, wireless charging, or high-end gaming performance, but you will find dependable devices that handle everyday tasks like WhatsApp, social media, Browse, and navigation with ease.
Top Picks for the Best Smartphone Under 300 AED in 2025
Here are our top choices that deliver the best performance and value for your dirhams.
1. Xiaomi Redmi A3
Xiaomi’s Redmi series has always dominated the budget segment, and the Redmi A3 is a standout choice for its modern design and large display.
- Why it’s a top pick: The Redmi A3 offers a premium look with its glass back and features a large 6.71-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate, which is rare at this price and makes scrolling feel much smoother. Its Helio G36 processor is capable of handling all your daily tasks without major slowdowns.
- Key Specs:
- Display: 6.71-inch IPS LCD, 90Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G36
- RAM/Storage: Typically 3GB/64GB or 4GB/128GB (look for offers on the 64GB model to stay under 300 AED)
- Camera: 8MP main camera
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Best For: Users who want a large, smooth display for media consumption and a modern-looking phone.
- Buy Online:
2. Samsung Galaxy A05
For those who trust the Samsung brand, the Galaxy A05 is an excellent entry-level device that delivers a reliable experience with great software support.
- Why it’s a top pick: The Samsung Galaxy A05 features a powerful Helio G85 processor, which provides better performance than many competitors in this price range. You also get the polished One UI software experience and a large 6.7-inch screen.
- Key Specs:
- Display: 6.7-inch PLS LCD
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G85
- RAM/Storage: 4GB/64GB
- Camera: 50MP main camera
- Battery: 5000mAh with 25W fast charging support
- Best For: Anyone looking for a reliable, no-fuss smartphone from a globally trusted brand with a surprisingly good camera for the price.
- Buy Online:
3. Nokia C12
Nokia is synonymous with durability and a clean software experience, and the Nokia C12 delivers on both fronts, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
- Why it’s a top pick: The Nokia C12 runs on Android 12 (Go edition), a lighter version of Android designed to run smoothly on less powerful hardware. This means you get a clean, bloatware-free experience and the promise of regular security updates.
- Key Specs:
- Display: 6.3-inch IPS LCD
- Processor: Unisoc SC9863A1
- RAM/Storage: 2GB/64GB
- Camera: 8MP main camera
- Battery: 3000mAh (Removable)
- Best For: Users who prioritize a simple, secure, and clean Android experience and appreciate Nokia’s durable build quality.
- Buy Online:
Conclusion: Great Value is Within Reach
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a capable and reliable smartphone in the UAE. For under 300 AED, brands like Xiaomi, Samsung, and Nokia offer excellent devices that are perfect for everyday use.
Our top recommendation for the best overall value is the Samsung Galaxy A05, thanks to its superior processor and camera. However, if a large, smooth screen is your priority, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 is an unbeatable choice.
By choosing any of the phones on this list, you can be confident that you’re getting the best possible value for your money.
Disclaimer: Prices and availability are subject to change. The links provided are for direct retail listings and were accurate at the time of writing. Always check the final price with the retailer.
