UAE Shoppers are most mobile-centric and omnichannel consumers globally

A recent survey conducted by a top marketing research company in the UAE identified its shoppers as the most mobile-centric and omnichannel consumers in the world. Over 70% of in-store shoppers in the UAE said that they are more likely to use their smartphones to enhance the shopping experience. Especially to search product information and compare prices at other merchants. Globally, the UAE ranks 44th in digital quality of life and has the fastest mobile internet in Asia according to digital wellbeing study. 

Read: UAE’s E-Commerce Sector Recorded a Significant Growth in the Year 2021

UAE Digitalization – World Ranking

According to the Digital Quality of Life Index, the UAE’s internet quality ranks 3rd in the world and is 54% better than the global average. In terms of internet speed, UAE’s mobile internet ranks higher than fixed broadband in the global ranking, operating at 247.7 Mbps/s (1st globally). Meanwhile, the fixed broadband internet is ranked 13th globally.

Nearly one-third of all local eCommerce shoppers picked up their most recent purchases in-store or via curbside pickup. This also reflects consumers’ strong appetite for mobile-enabled shopping experiences making UAEs eCommerce industry one of the most attractive for investments globally. 

Read: UAE to become the fastest growing economy in the Gulf – 2023

UAE Consumers – Online Shopping Journey 

UAE shoppers’ strong pref­erence for mobile commerce is inclusive of every aspect of their shopping journeys, including their in-store shopping expe­riences. Consequently, eCommerce companies are focusing on the needs of the mobile-centric shoppers. As one of the leading market research companies in the UAE, we believe that the UAE market is progressing steadily on its way to a cashless journey. 

Furthermore, the market research survey revealed that 65% of consumers used smartphones at some point throughout their most recent retail journeys while over a third completed their last purchase entirely via a smartphone. Another finding is that shoppers who use their phones in-store encounter 9% more friction than their counterparts in other countries.

Research Konnection is a top marketing research firm in the United Arab Emirates. Contact us hello@researchkonnection.com to evaluate if you wish to conduct market research or a feasibility study.