Back-to-School Stationery List for UAE Students (KG to University)

Whether your child is starting KG or heading into university, a well-stocked pencil case makes the school year easier. Here's a simple checklist for UAE students, grouped by age, with the essentials teachers ask for most.

1. Writing essentials (every age)

• Pencils and a good sharpener. A sharpener with a canister keeps shavings out of the bag. Try the Deli Comiko sharpener or the two-hole Deli EH558 for standard and jumbo pencils.
• Mechanical pencils for older students: the Deli Joyin 0.5 mm is light and comfortable.
• Ballpoint pens. Buy a box rather than single pens. They always go missing. The Deli Arrow box of 12 covers a full term.
• Erasers and correction tape. A box of Faber-Castell PVC-free erasers is handy for families with more than one child, and Deli correction tape keeps homework neat.

2. KG and primary school

• Glue stick: the classic UHU Stic is on almost every supply list.
• Colours: Deli watercolour paints, oil pastels or 36-colour sketch markers for art class.
• Modelling dough for fine-motor practice at home, such as the Deli Dough It! 12-colour set.
• Lunch and water: a leakproof dual-compartment lunch box and a fun BPA-free unicorn bottle. Water is a must in UAE heat.

3. Middle and secondary school

• Scientific calculator. The Casio fx-82MS is a long-time classroom favourite. For an Arabic menu, look at the Deli D991ARX.
• Highlighters for revision: the Deli Accentio 4-colour set.
• Sticky notes and index tabs to mark textbook pages: Deli multicolour sticky notes and Deli index tabs.
• Display book for projects and certificates: Deli A4 display book.

4. University and home study

• A tidy desk helps focus: a metal mesh pen holder and a felt desk mat.
• A planner to track deadlines: the Lifestyle Lavish planner set.
• Laptop gear: a 15.6" laptop bag and a foldable laptop stand for better posture.

Quick tips for UAE parents

• Check your school's official supply list first. Some schools ask for specific brands or calculator models.
• Label everything. Pens, bottles and calculators are the items most often lost.
• Buy refills in boxes: staples, pens and glue sticks cost less per piece.
• Keep a small "homework kit" at home so school supplies stay in the school bag.

You'll find all of these in our Office & Stationery collection, with Cash on Delivery available and free UAE delivery on orders over AED 149.

Want tips on spending less? Read our school stationery shopping guide for UAE parents.