Middle East Live Commerce Market

Middle East Live Commerce Market is valued at USD 825 million, driven by smartphone penetration, social media, and online shopping shifts in UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.

The Middle East Live Commerce Market is valued at USD 825 million, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing penetration of smartphones and high-speed internet, coupled with a shift in consumer behavior towards online shopping and interactive experiences. The rise of social media platforms as shopping channels has further accelerated this trend, making live commerce a popular choice among consumers.

Key players in this market include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, which dominate due to their advanced digital infrastructure, high internet penetration rates, and a young, tech-savvy population. The UAE, in particular, has emerged as a hub for e-commerce and live shopping events, supported by government initiatives that promote digital transformation and innovation in retail.

In 2023, the UAE government implemented the "Consumer Protection Law (Federal Law No. 15 of 2020)" and its executive regulations, issued by the Ministry of Economy, which require all e-commerce and live commerce platforms to provide clear information about products, pricing, and return policies. This regulation aims to build consumer trust and ensure a safe shopping environment, thereby fostering the growth of the live commerce sector.

Middle East Live Commerce Market Segmentation

By Type:

The live commerce market can be segmented into various types, including Fashion & Apparel, Beauty & Personal Care, Electronics, Home & Living, Food & Beverage, Health & Wellness, Automotive, and Luxury Goods. Among these, Fashion & Apparel is the leading sub-segment, driven by the growing trend of online shopping and the influence of social media on fashion choices. Health & Wellness is emerging as a high-growth segment, reflecting increased consumer focus on wellness products and interactive demonstrations in live commerce formats. Consumers are increasingly drawn to live shopping events that showcase the latest trends and allow for real-time interaction with brands.

By End-User:

The end-user segmentation includes Individual Consumers, Small Businesses, and Large Enterprises. Individual Consumers dominate the market, as they are the primary participants in live commerce events, driven by the desire for unique shopping experiences and the convenience of purchasing products directly from their homes. The trend of influencer-led live shopping has also significantly contributed to the engagement of individual consumers in this segment.

Middle East Live Commerce Market Competitive Landscape

The Middle East Live Commerce Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Noon.com, Amazon.ae (formerly Souq.com), Ounass, Namshi, Carrefour UAE, Jumia, Talabat, TikTok (ByteDance), Instagram (Meta Platforms, Inc.), Shein, H&M Middle East, Sephora Middle East, IKEA UAE, Al-Futtaim Group, Chalhoub Group contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Middle East Live Commerce Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

Increasing Internet Penetration:

The Middle East has seen a significant rise in internet penetration, reaching approximately 75 percent in future, according to the International Telecommunication Union. This increase translates to over 350 million internet users across the region, facilitating access to live commerce platforms. Enhanced connectivity enables consumers to engage with brands in real-time, driving sales and fostering a more interactive shopping experience. As more users come online, the potential for live commerce to thrive grows exponentially.

Rise of Social Media Influencers:

The influence of social media personalities is profound in the Middle East, with over 70 percent of consumers trusting recommendations from influencers. In future, the region is expected to have over 10 million active influencers, creating a robust ecosystem for live commerce. Brands are increasingly collaborating with these influencers to reach targeted audiences, leveraging their credibility to drive engagement and sales. This trend is pivotal in shaping consumer behavior and preferences in the live commerce landscape.

Shift Towards Online Shopping:

The online shopping market in the Middle East is projected to exceed USD 30 billion in future, driven by changing consumer preferences and convenience. With a growing number of consumers opting for online purchases, live commerce offers a unique blend of entertainment and shopping. This shift is further supported by the rise of mobile commerce, with over 60 percent of online transactions occurring via mobile devices, making live commerce an attractive option for retailers aiming to capture this expanding market.

Market Challenges

Regulatory Compliance Issues:

The live commerce sector in the Middle East faces significant regulatory hurdles, with varying laws across countries. For instance, the UAE has stringent e-commerce regulations that require businesses to obtain specific licenses. In future, compliance costs are expected to rise, potentially exceeding USD 1 billion across the region. These challenges can deter new entrants and complicate operations for existing players, impacting overall market growth and innovation.

Limited Consumer Awareness:

Despite the growth potential, consumer awareness of live commerce remains low, with only

25 percent of the population familiar with the concept in future. This lack of understanding can hinder adoption rates, as consumers may be hesitant to engage in live shopping experiences. Educational initiatives and marketing campaigns are essential to bridge this gap, but they require significant investment, which can be a barrier for smaller companies looking to enter the market.

Middle East Live Commerce Market Future Outlook

The future of live commerce in the Middle East appears promising, driven by technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences. As internet penetration continues to rise, more consumers will engage with live shopping experiences. Additionally, the integration of augmented reality and artificial intelligence will enhance personalization, making shopping more interactive. Companies that adapt to these trends and invest in innovative technologies will likely capture a larger market share, positioning themselves for long-term success in this dynamic landscape.

Market Opportunities

Expansion of Mobile Payment Solutions:

With mobile payment transactions projected to reach USD 15 billion in future, there is a significant opportunity for live commerce platforms to integrate seamless payment solutions. This integration can enhance user experience, reduce cart abandonment rates, and drive higher conversion rates, making it a critical area for growth in the live commerce sector.

Collaborations with Local Brands:

Collaborating with local brands can unlock new customer segments, as these brands often have established trust within their communities. In future, partnerships with over 500 local brands are anticipated, providing live commerce platforms with unique offerings that resonate with regional consumers. This strategy can enhance brand loyalty and drive sales through localized marketing efforts.