The Gulf Cooperation Council's (GCC) strong economic base, high urbanisation and strategic investments in non-oil sectors have positioned the region as a key player in global economic trends. With a GDP surpassing USD2 trillion in 2023 and continued growth driven by rising employment, particularly among women, the region is set to see increased consumer spending and a booming retail sector, especially in e-commerce.
The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia are exceptions to global inflation trends due to factors such as high profit margins, low sales tax, franchising dominance, discounters and local manufacturing, regulatory changes, oil prices and state spending, in addition to exchange rate and interest rate dynamics. These factors have helped maintain price stability and low inflation rates in these economies, despite global turmoil.
E-commerce in the MENA region has grown substantially since the pandemic period in 2020 given its acceleration of online platforms, consumer demand and online payments. 2021 saw e-commerce in the region accelerate even further. Find out more about the latest insights and data from Euromonitor's General Manager in Dubai, Hussein Doughan.
With Dubai Expo 2020 in full force, all eyes are on the Gulf region, not only as the host of this spectacular event, but as the hub. Investment and digitalisation are key to fostering a drive for innovation and we continue to see significant advancement in both.