The UAE’s retail landscape is undergoing a seismic shift—and it’s not just about e-commerce anymore. According to Zoho’s latest UAE Retailer Survey, 70% of retailers are now integrating digital tools directly into their physical stores. This signals a bold move toward omnichannel strategies that blend online convenience with offline engagement.

What’s driving this transformation?

Retailers are responding to evolving consumer behaviour, rising expectations for speed and personalization, and the need to expand market access. Interestingly, while digital storefronts thrive, 50% of retailers still plan to grow their physical footprint—using pop-up stores and in-store partnerships to deliver experiential value.

For companies offering digital solutions, this is a golden moment. From AI-powered personalization to mobile payments and in-store tech, the demand for smart, scalable tools is surging.

Additionally, UAE-based innovators like Majid Al Futtaim, Namshi, Mall of the Emirates, Anigma Technologies, XStak, and NetSuite for Retail are setting the benchmark for omnichannel excellence—seamlessly blending mobile-first e-commerce, immersive in-store tech, cloud-based retail operating systems, and integrated loyalty platforms to deliver unified, data-driven customer experiences across both digital and physical touchpoints.

Standout Stats:

– 57% of UAE retailers operate both online and offline channels

– 69% say social media is now the top product discovery channel

– 64% offer mobile payments; 60% use digital screens/tablets in-store

– 60% plan to invest in AI and machine learning to enhance competitiveness

– Nearly 70% report in-store tech improves speed and customer convenience

The future of retail in the UAE is hybrid, intelligent, and experience-driven. Solution providers that can help retailers bridge the gaps between online & offline (unify channels), personalize journeys, reduce friction and streamline operations will win and be at the forefront of this next wave.