Ramadan, E-Commerce, and the Gulf Nations.
Ramadan is a time of reflection, generosity, and community connection – values that have endured for centuries. Families gather for iftar, gifts are exchanged in anticipation of Eid Al-Fitr, and homes are adorned to welcome the season’s blessings. While these traditions have remained timeless, the way people shop and celebrate has greatly evolved.
E-commerce in the GCC surges by 30-50% during Ramadan, making it one of the busiest online shopping periods of the year. Across the region, consumers are spending more and shopping smarter. In Saudi Arabia, e-commerce orders jumped by 44% in 2024, with 62% of purchases made via mobile devices, reflecting the growing dominance of mobile commerce. The UAE saw a 143% year-over-year increase in online marketplace spending, highlighting strong consumer trust in digital platforms. Meanwhile, Kuwait recorded the highest average order value in MENA at $127, reinforcing the trend of premium purchases during the holy month. In Qatar, mobile commerce is expanding rapidly, with 54% of online transactions now placed via smartphones, signaling a shift toward app-based shopping. Bahrain, with a mobile internet penetration rate of over 100%, has seen a rise in fashion and home essentials as key e-commerce categories.
What Does This Mean for Merchants?
For merchants, Ramadan brings predictable yet formidable challenges. Last-minute shoppers expect lightning-fast deliveries, with orders placed as late as the night for Eid needing same-day or next-day fulfillment, in time for the festivities.
Moreover, as shopping habits extend further into the evening, so do delivery expectations, adding further complexity for businesses unprepared for the late-night shopping economy. Additionally, the GCC’s interconnected markets mean that many businesses serve regional and global customers. Handling cross-border customs clearance can lead to unexpected delays, particularly during Ramadan when order volumes are their highest.
How can businesses stay ahead with DHL Express?
Staying ahead in the Ramadan rush requires an efficient logistics strategy and a reliable partner to execute it. Here is how businesses can deliver the best value to their customers with DHL Express:
- Plan Inventory and Fulfillment Early: Stock up on high-demand products in advance to prevent shortages. Use DHL’s bulk shipping solutions to streamline fulfillment and prepare items for fast dispatch.
- Offer Flexible and Reliable Shipping: Customers expect fast and secure deliveries. DHL Express offers 24-48hr GCC-wide easy shipping, thanks to our strong regional footprint.
- Customs Expertise for Smooth Cross-Border Clearance: Handling cross-border shipments during Ramadan can be complex. DHL Express’s customs expertise provides seamless clearance to reduce transit times and avoid unforeseen complications.
- Transparent Communication and Real-Time Tracking: Build customer trust by keeping them informed. DHL’s real-time tracking system provides SMS and email notifications that allow shoppers to know exactly when their orders will arrive. Live updates are also available via the DHL app to offer on-the-go visibility for all Ramadan shipments.
- Secure Packaging for Delicate Items: From perfumes to gourmet Eid gift boxes, fragile shipments require extra care. DHL’s secure packaging solutions protect goods from damage to make sure that they arrive in perfect condition.
- Provide Eco-Friendly Shipping Options: Catering to environmentally conscious consumers can set your business apart. DHL’s GoGreen Plus program allows businesses to reduce u to 80% of carbon emissions associated with shipments by utilizing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
- Extended Customer Support: 24/7 customer assistance ascertains that queries and issues are addressed promptly. DHL Express provides round-the-clock support to manage urgent Ramadan shipping needs and inquiries during this peak period.
- Returns Made Easy: A hassle-free return process retains customer trust. DHL Express simplifies returns, making it easier for businesses to manage exchanges and refunds, thereby building customer loyalty beyond Ramadan.
In the season of sharing and giving, fast Ramadan deliveries become acts of care. As e-commerce in the GCC continues to soar, trust DHL Express to turn logistical challenges into opportunities – because in every box, there is a promise kept.
This Ramadan, DHL Express is offering up to 50% off shipping rates when you open your Commerce Account here. Alternatively you can choose to send a shipment and try DHL's services for your business, through our digital services here.
Let us handle your logistics while you focus on delivering the best shopping experience to your customers.
