INSEAD Day 4 - 728x90

Samsung biggest chip investor

The tech giant invested nearly $59.2bn in 2025.

flynas to set up new hub

Five destinations in first phase of operations.

AD Ports Group acquires CLI

CLI is Brazilian agri-bulk terminal operator.

$1.59bn Makkah project awarded

A consortium will develop two districts in the Holy City.

2PointZero posts profit surge

Growth driven by merger consolidation.

UAE’s e-commerce sector projected to earn $9bn revenue in 2024

A general view of Dubai.
  • One of the key drivers of this expansion is the emerging trend of "metaverse e-commerce," a segment anticipated to experience a 37% growth from 2024 to 2030
  • The top performers in 2023 were Toys, DIY, and hobbies, leading with 29% market share, closely followed by fashion at 27%

Dubai, UAE – The UAE’s online shopping market is gearing up for unprecedented growth, with revenue projections hitting $9 billion by the end of 2024 and an impressive $17 billion forecasted for 2025. The trajectory is emblematic of the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region’s e-commerce landscape, poised to soar to $57 billion by 2026.

One of the key drivers of this expansion is the emerging trend of “metaverse e-commerce,” a segment anticipated to experience a 37% growth from 2024 to 2030.

The top performers in 2023 were Toys, DIY, and hobbies, leading with 29% market share, closely followed by fashion at 27%. Electronics and media secured an 18% share, while food and personal care claimed 13%, and furniture and appliances accounted for 12% of the e-commerce market.

The projections for 2024 reveal a promising outlook for specific sectors. Home and laundry care are anticipated to generate revenue amounting to around $75.66 million. Meanwhile, the e-commerce hair care market is riding the wave of growth, with a projected revenue of $50.47 million by the close of 2024.

Industry experts attribute this surge in online shopping to factors such as increasing digital connectivity, a growing tech-savvy population, and shifting consumer preferences. As the e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, businesses are gearing up to capitalize on these trends, shaping the future of retail in the region.