Black Friday Discount Guide
How to take advantage of Black Friday deals smartly and avoid fake discounts
In 2023, shoppers worldwide spent over $70 billion during Black Friday and Cyber Monday combined. Yet studies reveal that 60% of these "discounts" are not genuine — prices are raised weeks before the season then "slashed" back to normal. This guide arms you with tools and strategies to achieve real savings of up to 40% on your purchases.
What Is Black Friday and Where Did It Come From?
Black Friday is an American tradition falling on the Friday after Thanksgiving (November), which has grown into a global phenomenon. In the Arab region, e-commerce platforms like Noon and Amazon now dedicate full weeks to deals, with discounts ranging from a fake 5% to a genuine 70%.
How to Spot a Fake Discount
Fake discounts work by inflating the original price 4–6 weeks before the season, then returning it to normal with a "30% OFF" banner. Here are your detection tools:
- Track the price on a price-monitoring site starting one month before the season
- Use the discount calculator to verify the advertised percentage is accurate
- Compare the price across at least three different stores
- Search for the "lowest historical price" in price-comparison apps
Comparison of Common Discount Types
| Discount Type | How It Works | Worth Buying? |
|---|---|---|
| Genuine clearance discount | Real price reduction to clear stock | Yes, verify warranty first |
| Older model discount | Previous product generation | Yes, if you don't need the latest spec |
| Recently inflated price "discount" | Raised then lowered — fake | No — the real price never changed |
| Bundle discount | Products grouped at lower combined price | Sometimes — calculate per-item price |
| Extra coupon discount | Discount on top of a discount | Yes, if you actually need the product |
Smart Shopping Plan Step by Step
- **One month before:** Start your list of genuine needs and record current prices
- **Two weeks before:** Enable price alerts on major stores
- **On the day:** Verify the discount with the calculator before buying; don't rush due to "limited-time offers"
- **After purchase:** Keep your receipt and check the return policy (usually 15–30 days)
Categories That See the Most Genuine Discounts
- Electronics: TVs, older phone models, home appliances
- Clothing and fashion: end of autumn season
- Large home appliances: washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners
- Toys and gifts: ahead of the holiday season
Use the discount calculator to confirm the advertised percentage is accurate and that you're truly getting the price you expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Black Friday discounts always genuine?+
No. Studies indicate that roughly 60% of advertised discounts are not real — some retailers raise prices weeks before the season and then reduce them back. Tracking prices in advance is the only reliable way to verify.
How do I calculate the real discount percentage?+
The formula is: (Original Price - Discounted Price) ÷ Original Price × 100. You can use the discount calculator to do this instantly and verify whether the advertised percentage is accurate.
When should I start tracking prices before Black Friday?+
Start a full month before the season. Record the current prices of products you want now, and enable price alerts two weeks before the Friday.
Which product categories offer the best genuine discounts?+
Electronics (especially older models), large home appliances, end-of-season clothing, and toys. Avoid buying food or personal care products based solely on a discount banner.
Is it better to shop online or in physical stores?+
Online shopping is easier for comparison and offers access to more deals. However, physical stores may have exclusive in-store offers. The best approach is to compare both before making a purchase decision.