Big potential in MENA online retail sector survey shows

September 21, 2010 at 12:54 PM

The latest survey of internet users in the Middle East and North Africa region has shown just three in ten purchase goods and services online.

The survey by online research company Effective Measure and Spot On Public Relations of 7,000 internet users found that highest percentage of internet shoppers in the MENA region was in GCC countries.

But, compared to other global markets, like the UK where 62% of internet users shop online, the region is far behind, the firms said in a statement.

"There is undoubtedly enormous potential for growth in the MENA online retail sector," said Brendon Ogilvy, vice president, digital insight at Effective Measures.

"Despite the fact that the overall level of online shopping activity is low, at 32 percent of internet users, that still represents a market of more than 20 million online shoppers across the Arab world."

The survey also found that female shoppers are more likely to buy clothes and accessories, while men more often go for electronics.

In the GCC, top buys online during June, July and August include airline tickets (31%), hotel reservation and tourism services (15%), books (15%), computer software (14%) and clothing, accessories and shows (12%).