The latest DHL report highlights emerging e-commerce trends across global markets, with the UAE showing rapid digital adoption.
According to the DHL eCommerce Trends Report 2026, which surveyed 29,000 shoppers and 5,800 businesses across 29 countries, consumer habits are shifting quickly. Consequently, retailers must adapt to these changes to remain competitive in the digital economy.
AbdulAziz Busbate, CEO Middle East and North Africa at DHL Express, commented on the regional market dynamics.
“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.”
AbdulAziz Busbate, CEO Middle East and North Africa, DHL Express
E-commerce Trends in the UAE Market
When analyzing specific e-commerce trends in the UAE, the report reveals that 52% of shoppers expect to buy more through retailer websites.
Meanwhile, 51% of consumers plan to use online marketplaces, and 47% intend to shop via mobile apps. Furthermore, 36% of UAE shoppers expect to increase their purchases through social media platforms over the next five years.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence
The integration of artificial intelligence is transforming how consumers interact with online brands.
Specifically, 51% of UAE shoppers currently use AI-powered chat tools, making the country a leading market for AI adoption. In addition, 91% of UAE businesses already use AI across their platforms, and 84% expect this usage to increase. Globally, 29% of shoppers would allow AI to make purchasing decisions for them within five years.
Delivery Preferences and Logistics
Convenience remains a primary driver for consumers, with 84% of UAE shoppers preferring home delivery.
Meanwhile, 73% of shoppers prefer home collection for returns, while out-of-home options like parcel lockers are used by 12% for deliveries. Notably, 64% of UAE shoppers hold a paid delivery subscription, and 73% of local businesses offer this service.
Social Commerce and Sustainable Shopping
Social platforms have become major sales channels, with 68% of UAE consumers shopping on Facebook and 67% on Instagram.
Additionally, sustainable practices are influencing buyer behavior, as 45% of global shoppers purchase second-hand items for environmental reasons. These evolving e-commerce trends indicate a broader shift toward circular economies in markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL eCommerce, emphasized the speed of technological change in the logistics sector.
“The ability to understand and respond to customer needs has always defined success – but our new eCommerce trend report shows that AI is now redefining that advantage at hyperspeed.”
Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL eCommerce
