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

In recent years, there has been a growing increase in’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 stabilityiIt's cheap. 

Furthermore, Dubai has become a tourist destination of great interest, boasting over 16 million tourists annually, and it is rightfully one of the world's shopping capitals.

Appreciation for Made in Italy and streamlined bureaucracy are incentives for more and more companies to sell in the Emirates.

Just think, since 2020 it's been 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’In-depth project analysis, enabling product delivery while considering numerous competitors and the economic as well as cultural realities of this country.

It will also be necessary to have one or more local contacts who have a thorough knowledge of the local market and who can boast extensive experience 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 said earlier, the country's economy is booming, and many companies are considering selling in the Emirates, regardless of their sector.: From fashion to construction, from furnishings 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 establish it in the Emirati market. The creation of partnerships and the development of a strong sales network are essential factors to keep in mind and not underestimate.

Don't neglect customer care 

To counter competitors, customer service must be impeccable. Therefore, logistics must ensure maximum fluidity and coordination of all sales steps. Warehouses must operate 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 the implications of the Islamic religion, which in fact has a significant impact not only on a political level, but also on business.

Although we are discussing a culturally and technologically advanced country, we cannot overlook this aspect, which is identified in the respect of Islamic Etiquette that also involves commerce. 

Knowing its principles is an essential prerogative for expanding your business not only in the UAE but also in other nations in the Middle East that profess the Islamic religion.

To date, the opportunity to sell in the Emirates remains attractive, also to establish one's brand in one of the most prosperous markets. 

Without targeted strategies, however, it will be difficult to achieve this 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 our success.

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