Grow cross-border E-commerce and export to UAE with DHL Express

The UAE is home to the tallest building in the world – the Burj Khalifa in Dubai – but it’s not just the architecture that’s shooting up. The country has one of the highest internet penetration rates in the Middle East (over 90%), which is fueling a rapid growth of e-commerce.

With high income levels, consumers there have money to burn. So, what are they looking to spend their money on? And how can your business tap into this lucrative market? Read on for an exclusive guide to e-commerce in the UAE and export to UAE with DHL Express.

Population: 9.5 million

The United Arab Emirates is a country consisting of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.

The median age of the population was estimated to be 34 in 20203. This internet-savvy generation is driving the e-commerce boom.

What are UAE consumers buying online?

Leading E-commerce segments, by market share are:

• Travel: 22%
• Electrical goods: 13%
• Clothing and Footwear: 12%
• Food and drink: 10%
• Homeware and furniture: 8%

From May 2019 to April 2020, the average spend per online payment transaction in the UAE was US$122.

The pandemic effect

The pandemic has boosted e-commerce levels in the UAE: 73% of UAE consumers are shopping more online than they did prior to the pandemic.

Forecast e-commerce market size post COIVD-19 in the UAE is as following:

Share of UAE consumers who will keep online shopping habits after Covid-19, by generation.

Ramadan

Islam is the official religion of the UAE – 76% of those living there are Muslims. Every year, during the holy month of Ramadan, online retailers see a surge as Muslims buy food, outfits and gifts for the celebrations.

Your big opportunity

60% of UAE consumers have made at least one purchase from an international retailer online. There’s still an opportunity to ship to UAE to sell your products and grow your E-commerce business.

Market share of cross-border sales to the UAE

Meeting the UAE consumer needs

• UAE consumers are young, tech-savvy and love shopping via their smartphones, so ensure your e-commerce website is optimized for mobile.
• The official currency is the United Emirates Dirham, or AED. Localize your website to show consumers the price of their purchase in their currency.
• UAE is an Islamic nation, but because of its large population of expatriates, some Western shopping holiday trends like Black Friday are catching on.

The most important criteria to UAE consumers when choosing an online shopping platform

• Better Prices                                             65%
• Free Shipping                                           50%
• Good offers and promotions              45%
• Speed of delivery                                    41%
• Easy-to-use app                                      35%

I’m ready for cross-border trade with the UAE. What next?

Take advantage of our business expertise. DHL Express is the real expert in exports and imports covering 220 countries and territories worldwide. Ship to UAE now and enjoy the world-class logistics services and global network. We’re here to help you ship anywhere in the world with the peace of mind!

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