UAE consumers are shifting rapidly to e-commerce as security concerns stemming from the Iran conflict reduce footfall at malls and public spaces, according to Redseer Consulting.
Food and beverage delivery is up 18% since the onset of Iranian attacks, with beauty and personal care rising 15%, fashion 14% and long-shelf groceries 11%. Alshaya Group, which operates over 70 international brands across 4,000-plus stores, has recorded online sales growth of up to 35%.
Quick commerce is emerging as a defining trend – 55 % of UAE residents reported increased use of ultra-fast delivery since the conflict began, driven by caution rather than convenience. Nearly half of consumers surveyed are visiting malls less frequently.
UAE online retail was valued at AED 57 billion by end-2025, with penetration exceeding 17% of total retail.
Gulf Economist Staff Writer