The newest DHL eCommerce Trends Report 2026 has been published, pointing to the UAE as among the most advanced surveyed markets for AI adoption.
The report suggests that the UAE is among the markets where digital commerce habits are evolving rapidly.
In the next five years, 52% of UAE shoppers expect to browse and buy more through retailer websites, 51% through online marketplaces, 47% through apps and 37% through AI-powered chat or virtual assistants.
On the business side, UAE companies are also preparing for continued channel expansion, with 68% expecting more customer activity through social media, 65% through apps, 64% through online marketplaces and 59% through AI-powered chat or virtual assistants.
Social media purchasing channels are an increasingly important part of UAE shopper purchases.
According to the report, 68% of UAE shoppers have purchased through Facebook, 67% through Instagram, 57% through TikTok and 41% through YouTube.
Businesses are active across the same channels, with 82% having sold through Facebook, 75% through Instagram, 73% through TikTok and 52% through YouTube.
Marketplaces remain highly relevant as well, with Amazon identified as the most popular online marketplace for both UAE shoppers and businesses.
DHL Express Middle East and North Africa CEO, AbdulAziz Busbate, said: “The UAE’s strength as an e-commerce market lies in the combination of a highly digital society, strong connectivity global and intraregional and a consumer base that is quick to adopt new online shopping habits.
“As digital platforms, flexible payment options and delivery expectations continue to shape the market, businesses have a strong foundation for growth. For retailers in the UAE, local relevance and the ability to serve both domestic demand and cross-border opportunities will be key as e-commerce continues to evolve.”
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