June 28 2020

eCommerce in the UAE

Diacron Dubai

eCommerce is the engine of global retail growth in the Middle East and North Africa, with the UAE leading the region and outperforming global eCommerce sales growth.

With an eCommerce penetration of 4.2% of total retail sales, the UAE leads the Middle East region averaged at 1.9%, but also with a significant lag behind other regions, according to Bain & Company 2019 Report. On the other side, the UAE has one of the highest levels of internet penetration globally, improved and integrated logistics, digital-ready marketplace and omni-channel approach to retail.

Based on Visa transaction data, in the wider Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (MENASA) region, the UAE represents also the biggest annual spend per online shopper at $1,648, with an average transaction size in the UAE of $144 in 2018-19, compared to $79 in mature markets and $26 in emerging markets.

Exploit the full eCommerce regional growth potential by establishing your local presence in the UAE, selling through an emarketplace and managing the regional distribution.

For more info on how to establish in the UAE and operate an eCommerce business regionally, contact Davide Bellino