Rule the world from your couch
Many people across the United Arab Emirates are voluntarily putting themselves into self-isolation and practicing social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic.
This means daily life and routines will be altered quite drastically for the foreseeable future.
However, thanks to the wonderful invention of the mobile phone and internet, there are plenty of ways to make your life just that little bit easier.
From fashion to food to groceries we’ve rounded up some key apps to help you through your social distancing period.
Groceries
Carrefour Now
To get groceries to your door in less than an hour, Carrefour Now is your best friend. As one of the biggest supermarket chains in the UAE, you can find everything you need at Carrefour for a reasonable price.
Waitrose
While Waitrose is not as instant at Carrefour Now, the app is simple to use as you can review your previous shopping lists. Also, if you’re a myWaitrose member there’s some great offers waiting for you. To get groceries delivered you need to book a one hour slot, any day of the week. Oh, and it’s free delivery. Win, win, win.
Marks & Spencer
Marks & Spencer has launched an app, Marks & Spencer Food, which delivers its premium range of groceries direct to those customers based in Dubai.
Home delivery is currently available to those living in The Meadows, The Springs, Emirates Hills, Jumeirah Islands, Jumeirah Village Circle, Jumeirah Village Triangle, Dubai Sports City, Motor City, Jumeirah Golf Estate, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Jumeirah Park, The Lakes and The Greens with plans for expansion.
Lulu Hypermarket
The Lulu Hypermarket app keeps its customers up-to-date with great offers and deals at the nearest store you’re located to. In terms of delivery time, depending at which point in the day you place your order, you can expect your groceries to arrive the same day or the next.
Kibsons
If you don’t want to become a total couch potato during self-isolation, then Kibsons is a must-have app. Specialising in organic fruits and veggies from all over the world, the app will encourage you to stick to healthy eating. There’s also the option for groceries to be packed in a carton, avoiding the use of plastic bags, so it ticks the environmental box too.
InstaShop
For a one stop shop for groceries, fresh produce, pet items, flowers, pharmacies and maid services InstaShop is the must-have app for you.
Fashion
While it’s not essential to be shopping online while in self-isolation, browsing the web and treating yourself to some new bits in your wardrobe is totally allowed.
Ounass
As the ‘definitive home of luxury’ for the Middle East, you can find the best of local and international brands on the Ounass app. Even better, if it’s going to be your first time shopping with them during this self-isolation period you can enjoy 10 per cent off your first app order with the code ‘APP 10’.
Namshi
As the Middle East’s largest online fashion site, the Namshi app is a must-have to get all the best and latest piece at a reasonable price. With over 500 brands and 10,000 items of clothes, shoes and accessories you’ll sit there browsing for hours.
Amazon
For some great bargains on new clothes, Amazon is the app for you. Its also known to have speedy delivery so if your wanting that new set of PJs or comfy clothes quickly then Amazon is the app to order on. And, of course, it’s the go-to app for everything else inbetween. Any little ‘extras’ for your house you might notice you need during self-isolation, you’ll be sure to find it on Amazon.
Food
Of course there’s options to order groceries, but if you can’t face the kitchen then getting someone else to prepare your meals during social distancing is the way forward.
Deliveroo
Deliveroo offers the option for residents and citizens to order from restaurants all over Dubai. Any type of cuisine you’re looking for Deliveroo will most probably have it. Pay with cash or via the app with your card, we recommend the latter at this point in time. If you’re impatient and can’t wait to get your food, your updated on the time and the process at which your meal is in.
UberEats
While you may not be taking as many Ubers during this time, you can jump ship to UberEats so they come to you. Similar to Deliveroo, you can order from many different eateries around the area and stay updated on where your order is and when it will arrive.
Medical
By far probably the most essential apps to know about during this period of uncertainty.
Okadoc
For those who are feeling unwell, you can book a doctor’s appointment through a simple touch on the Okadoc app. You can see information about your doctor such as their background and what they are an expert in. If your plans change at any point, it’s also easy to reschedule your appointment via the app.
Life Pharmacy
If you’re in need of some prescription medicine you can order it straight through the Life Pharmacy app. All you need to do is send a photo of the prescription slip and your insurance card. Additionally you can also shop for non-prescription medicines, vitamins, beauty care and other things. At present, however, there’s a shortage of hand sanitisers.
Help with errands
Washmen
Working from home during this time may be a godsend in some aspects, but in others not so much. With your routine likely to be totally out sync, and if you have children they’ll most likely be staying home from school, household chores may be put on the backburner. Luckily, there’s an app that can take care of your washing. Washmen is a simple app that can take care of your laundry with wash & fold and clean & press services.
For the kids
Mumzworld
If you’re running out of ideas to keep your kids entertained during social distancing, then Mumzworld will be a life-saver. Stocking many brands that aren’t available at other places in the Middle East, it’s the go-to place for many parents for stocking up for their kids. It’s free delivery for any order over Dhs200 within the UAE.
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Images: Instagram, Supplied
