Impact on Consumer Behavior in MEA - COVID-19 Survey Snapshot - Week 10

Summary

The publisher is carrying out weekly consumer surveys in 11 countries between 25th March and 31st May 2020, to track consumer sentiment and shopping behavior during the Coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic. The sample size is 500 respondents per country, per week. The two countries in scope for Middle East & Africa are South Africa and UAE. Questions are consistent every week, and cover consumer opinions about COVID-19, buying behavior and product choices and impact of the Coronavirus (COVID19) outbreak on consumers' lifestyle and activities. This report summarizes the key findings from responses in week 10.

Key Highlights

• Over the past few weeks, responses in the UAE have fluctuated. Since week 9, respondents extremely concerned decreased by 5%. Having now stabilized with a national sterilization program in place, Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed declared that from 27th May, free movement and business activity would begin. This news of the easing of lockdown will have caused respondents to feel more confident that COVID-19 is declining.
• Despite concerns regarding COVID-19, the majority in South Africa still see the coronavirus situation getting worse over the next month; 86% of respondents still see conditions worsening before they get better. As highlighted, the lack of testing, facilities and healthcare likely impact consumer responses. This increase from week 9 is most likely because the lockdown was eased suggesting that there may be worries of a ‘second wave’.
• 94.8% of the Emirati population are internet users but browsing social media is not a key past time[5]. During this pandemic however, 40% of respondents are spending more time browsing social media platforms. This increased by 6% over the past week. This reflects that there is still an opportunity to touch base with consumers through social media platforms

Scope

• This report provides an insight into how the coronavirus pandemic is shaping consumer sentiment in South Africa and UAE.
• It summarizes key findings from the survey ‘s responses and offers insight into how destinations and industry players can adapt to meet changing demands and needs.

Reasons to Buy

• Gain access to primary survey data results.
• Understand how the coronavirus pandemic is changing consumer attitudes.
• Assess how you can adapt your business plans and strategies to better meet these changing needs.