November has always been the long-awaited shopping month, thanks to Black Friday. But since 2009, Singles Day, originating in China doubled the fun, making it the official month of sales.

Singles Day started in the early 1990s by a number of Chinese university students, as an anti-Valentine’s event that is meant for single people to celebrate themselves by self-gifting and other self-care rituals.

Celebrated on 11.11 of every year, the date refers to “bare branches,” a Chinese term for being single.

In 2009, Singles Day got commercialized when Chinese e-commerce giant dropped one of its biggest sales in celebration of 11.11, consequently making it more and more popular amongst shoppers.

Biggest sales in the UAE

1. Namshi

Up to 60% off on beauty products.

Use code: 11sale

Cashback offers on some items.

2. Cider

Up to 70% off.

Buy 1, Get 1 Free on some items.

Two for 75 AED on some items.

3. Noon

Up to 80%: Beauty essentials

30-75%: Kitchen appliances

Up to 50%: Men’s fashion

4. Amazon.ae

Up to 70% on fragrances, men’s fashion.

Up to 40% on mobiles, TVs and audios, laptops, and video games.

Additional discounts for certain credit cards.