How to sell in the Emirates: what you need to know

In recent years, the’attention to the United Arab Emirates, seen as an expansion market for many Italian companies.

This is obviously determined by the wealth of this country, and its stableieconomic tity. 

In addition, Dubai has become a major tourist destination, boasting more than 16 million tourists a year, and is in its own right one of the world's shopping capitals.

Appreciation for Italian-made products and a streamlined bureaucracy are an incentive for more and more companies to sell in the Emirates.

Suffice it to say that as of 2020, it is possible to establish companies that are exclusively foreign-owned.

Selling in the emirates, the basic steps not to go wrong

If you want to expand your business in the UAE, there are aspects to be absolutely considered.

The first of this must be the realization that it is not enough to offer one's products without having behind them a’thorough design analysis to convey the merchandise while taking into account the many competitors and the reality of not only the economic but also the cultural reality of this country.

It will also be necessary to have one or more contact persons in the area who have full knowledge of the local market and can boast an established practice with Islamic business etiquette. 

For further insights, we recommend reading a’our other guide dedicated to the selling in the Emirates.

How to cope with the many competitors targeting the UAE market

As we mentioned earlier, the country's economy is flourishing, and there are plenty of companies considering selling in the Emirates. whatever the target industry: from fashion to construction, from furniture to luxury.

Therefore, the competition is high and fierce. How to counter it effectively?

Do not rely solely on one's perception of the product 

The excellent quality of a product is not enough to impose it in the Emirati market. Building partnerships and developing a strong sales network are essential factors to keep in mind and not to be underestimated.

Don't neglect customer care 

To counter competitors, customer service must be flawless. Therefore, logistics must ensure maximum smoothness and coordination of all sales steps. Warehouses will have to function quickly and efficiently.ientity, such as handling shipments, returns with equal care. and the Supply of spare parts. 

Observance of Islamic Etiquette 

Trading in the UAE also means taking into account what the Islamic religion entails, which in fact has a significant impact not only politically, but also in business.

Although we are talking about a culturally and technologically advanced country, one cannot overlook this aspect, which is identified in the observance of an Islamic Etiquette that also affects trade. 

Knowing its principles, is an essential prerogative for expanding one's business not only in the UAE, but also in other Middle Eastern nations that profess the Islamic religion.

To date, the opportunity to sell in the Emirates is always appealing, even to establish one's brand in one of the most prosperous markets. 

Without targeted strategies, however, it will be complicated to achieve that goal.

Rely on Octagona, which has already successfully internationalized in the United Arab Emirates many companies, it means having a partner who can help you decisively penetrate that country, optimizing costs and resources, and through long-term strategies.

Our mission has always been to help businesses of all types expand into foreign markets; we can proudly say that their success is also ours.

If you are an entrepreneur who wishes to establish your business identity in the UAE or in another nation, please feel free to contact us.