UAE consumers shop for quality + convenience: Some 72% of shoppers in the UAE claim they are willing to pay more for quality products, according to a report from consumer intelligence and data analytics company NielsenIQ on consumer behavior in the Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Over in Saudi, some 71% of shoppers reported the same approach. Meanwhile, some 63% of local consumers and 64% of shoppers in Saudi are willing to spend extra for time-saving solutions.

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The UAE market for fast-moving consumer goods is both broader and more segmented than is Saudi, featuring both affordable and premium brands with notable growth driven by new and innovative premium offerings, the report claims. Over in Saudi, the market leans toward mainstream FMCG brands with a concentration in the mid-tier segment, leading to fewer brands in the market.

Tech + durable goods: The Kingdom saw a 4% annual increase in the sales of premium tech and durable products, compared to a 2% increase in the UAE.

Beverages, frozen food, and dairy are dominating the FMCG sector here at home and in Saudi. Owing to their necessity, convenience, and growing consumer demand, these categories have seen consistent performance. On the other hand, the drop in categories such as home care, baby care, and paper products is linked to changing lifestyles and a growing preference for online shopping.

The spin: “The UAE’s diverse population and differences in disposable income have created a polarized FMCG market. Affordable brands resonate with price-sensitive consumers, while premium brands attract those prioritizing quality and luxury, said Andrey Dvoychenkov, NielsenIQ general manager for the Arabian Peninsula and Pakistan. When it comes to tech and durable goods, “the industry is rapidly expanding in both regions, marked by a significant rise in active brands and products,” Dvoychenkov added.

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