The World’s Fastest-Growing
Ecommerce Frontier
With the MENA ecommerce market growing 25% annually, there’s
never been a better time to enter this thriving market.
MENA’s $28.5 Billion
Ecommerce Market
Due to a confluence of positive factors, the MENA
ecommerce market is expected to surpass $28.5 billion
by 2022. This presents an immense opportunity for
growth…but only for brands that are able to translate
their message and position their presence in ways that
resonate with local cultures and markets.
Unique Factors of the MENA Market
Supply-Demand Gap
Over 74% of Middle East consumers say their
desired brands are not available locally, and access
to a broad selection of products online is also
limited. This supply-demand imbalance presents an
opportunity for brands able to penetrate the region
and fill the gap with new products.
Cross-Border Ecommerce
Approximately 58% of all MENA ecommerce
transactions are conducted on a cross-border basis
—compared to less than 13% in the UK and 6% in
the US. Consumers’ main reasons for choosing
cross-border shopping includes better prices,
access to items not available locally, and a desire for
newer, higher-quality products.
Tech-Savvy Population
The MENA population is digitally savvy and
comfortable with online shopping. Internet,
smartphone, and social media penetration levels
rank higher than the US and China in some places.
This widespread comfort level with technology
provides a solid foundation for ecommerce growth.
Fragmented Market
MENA’s top two ecommerce players capture just
25-40% of the market, far below the 50%+ share
seen in more mature ecommerce markets
worldwide. This market fragmentation means less
competition and greater opportunity for brands
looking to establish their own presence in the
market.
Low Ecommerce Penetration
Compared to advanced western markets, where
ecommerce penetration of total retail sales
surpasses 10%, the MENA market averages just
1.9% penetration. This signals massive room for
growth in the upcoming years as the region catches
up with other advanced economies.
Rapid, Sustained Growth
The MENA ecommerce market has grown 25%
annually since 2014. And due to the reasons listed
above, along with economic improvements such as
a growing middle class and women’s increased role
in the workplace, it’s expected to grow even faster
moving forward. This makes now your prime
opportunity to enter the MENA market.
Want to Unlock MENA’s
Full Potential?
To unlock the MENA market’s full potential,
international brands will need the help of a strategic
enabler. With a partner like Revton in your corner,
you’ll be in a strong position to leverage the Middle
East’s unique market characteristics.
Market Differences
The MENA region comprises 22 countries with significant differences in their culture, dialects, and consumer behavior—which is why you can’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to this region. Instead, success requires the help of a partner with knowledge of all MENA’s unique markets. A partner like Revton.
Logistics
Ecommerce success in the Middle East requires a thorough understanding of each country’s logistical nuances and legislative framework. Here at Revton, we have the experience and the pre-existing relationships in place to ensure your products are delivered in a speedy and cost-effective manner.
Unique Market Landscape
With its strong focus on culture, search engine marketing, and the authority of influencers, MENA’s market landscape is unlike any other advanced nation in the world. That’s why brands that merely duplicate their existing marketing efforts nearly always fail. But here at Revton we’re tuned into this market. We understand how to tweak your marketing campaigns to resonate with local people and drive more business for your brand in the Middle East.
Trade & Compliance Requirements
Each MENA country has its own legal framework and regulations that must be followed to do business in the region. This legal complexity is a barrier to entry for some—but not for those who partner with Revton. We understand the legal obligations and nuances in each MENA country, and are capable of serving as your Merchant of Record (MoR) and Importer of Record (IoR).
Cash on Delivery
In the cash-based economy of the Middle East, consumers have a strong preference for COD. While digital payments are rapidly becoming more common, brands will still need the support of a partner with systems in place to efficiently handle cash-on-delivery payments.
Polysemous Languages
Arabic is a polysemous language in which words take on multiple meanings over time. As a result, literal translations often lead to misunderstandings—which is why all our translations are done only by competent native speakers who translate every part of your customer journey (not just your website).
Technical Demands
Expanding your ecommerce reach to the Middle East requires a unique set of technical capabilities. Here at Revton, our tech stack platform provides all the essentials and more, such as integrations with payment gateways and logistics companies, right-to-left UX/UI, support for multiple stores and currencies, onsite merchandising integrations, and the ability to scale to any & all countries in the region.
Let Revton Unlock Your MENA Opportunity
The MENA ecommerce market presents one of the biggest opportunities in history
for brands looking to grow. And here at Revton, we possess the in-depth local
knowledge and industry expertise needed to unlock your brand success in this
region. To find out how we can help you, get started by scheduling a consultation
with a member of our strategy team.