Learn about e-commerce growth in the Middle East
E-commerce in the Middle East is experiencing rapid growth, reshaping retail and unlocking exciting opportunities for Queensland businesses.
This digital transformation is creating new pathways for Queensland businesses to boost sales, diversify their customer base, and enter fast-growing markets across the region.
Brought to you by Queensland's global agency
Why e-commerce is on the rise in the Middle East
E-commerce in the Middle East is on a strong growth trajectory. This growth is a testament to the region's adoption of digital technologies and the increasing comfort of consumers with online shopping.
Shoppers from the region are increasingly turning to mobile research and buying online.
Roughly 85% of shoppers in the United Arab Emirates and 80% in Saudi Arabia research products on their phones and over half of shoppers aged 26 and above in the region are buying online.
About 64% of online shoppers in the Middle East go online specifically to find better deals and offers. (Source: Go-Globe)
Advancements in technology, shifting consumer behaviors, and increased internet penetration have collectively fueled the rise of online shopping. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this shift, prompting consumers to embrace digital platforms for their purchasing needs.
Your speakers
Kassem Younes
Queensland Trade and Investment Commissioner - Middle East (Host)
Kassem Younes has extensive experience in international market development, including 18 years in senior roles with the State Government of Victoria.
Kassem has championed innovative ideas and driven growth across key sectors like agriculture, renewable energy, sports diplomacy, E-sports and successfully established new clients for Australian companies from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Morocco, South Africa and Central Asia.
In 2024, Kassem was awarded the Public Service Medal for outstanding achievement in trade and investment between Victoria, Australia and the Middle East region.
Kassem has been involved with the Australian Arab Chamber of Commerce, the Australian Business Council in Dubai and the Swiss Business Council in Dubai.
Rohit Savara
Chief Executive Officer, Blue Ocean Global (Keynote)
Rohit Savara is a senior executive with over thirty years of experience in driving business growth and profitability through strategic leadership.
Rohit has a proven track record of successfully starting, scaling, and managing businesses across diverse industries. He is skilled in translating high-level objectives into actionable plans and brings decisive leadership to cross-functional, multicultural teams.
Rohit's expertise spans partnerships with retail, e-commerce, B2B, and institutional channels, enhancing market research and penetration. He is known for fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, vendors, strategic partners, and solution providers.
As an engineer with an MBA, Rohit offers a unique blend of technical insight, commercial acumen, and marketing strategy.
Mustafa Ahmed
General Manager, Blue Ocean Global (Keynote)
Mustafa Ahmed is a dedicated and ambitious professional with a forward-thinking vision, with seven years of hands-on experience in the Middle East, Central Asia and Türkiye regions.
Mustafa ensures execution of full-turn key projects and leading operations in multiple business domains such as telecommunications, FMCG and home appliances.
Mustafa is looking to leverage his technical and professional expertise to add value within a creative, fast-paced, forward-thinking organisation.
Alison Atia
CEO & Founder, Skin O2 (Panelist)
Alison Atia is an international trade expert and CEO of Skin O2, a clinical skincare brand developed by doctors and exported globally.
With extensive experience scaling her Australian business into the Middle East and Asia, Alison brings valuable insights into market entry, regulatory navigation, strategic partnerships, and cross-border marketing strategies.
Mike Walden
CEO Sole Proprietor, Beboxa (Panelist)
Mike Walden has been in the world of FMCG since 1991. He has worked as a senior buyer for ten years in the UK's leading supermarkets, five years as European Food Purchasing Director for Compass Group based in Switzerland and six years as an Executive Board member of Compass Group UK and Ireland.
Mike spent 2011-2017 creating, running and successfully selling his own 'one-stop shop' multi-temperature distribution business in the UAE.
Beboxa was founded in 2020 and is already the leader in business development across the Middle East.
Emma Imady
Founder, E-Social (Panelist)
Emma Imady is the founder of E-Social, a Gold Coast based marketing agency that specialises in empowering Queensland brands to expand into the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman.
With over four years of experience in digital marketing and logistics, Emma has built a reputation for helping Australian companies to establish a strong international presence by tailoring their digital strategies to resonate with global audiences.
What you will learn
- How to grow your export reach: Discover how e-commerce can access fast-growing consumer markets across the Middle East.
Practical, market ready insights: Learn how to navigate the Middle East's e-commerce landscape - covering legal, cultural and logistical considerations specific to exporters.
Connect with key platforms and marketing experts: Learn how to engage with leading e-commerce platforms and digital marketing providers that can support your entry into the region.
Key takeaways for your business
- Market insights and opportunities: Gain insights into the Middle East's fast-growing e-commerce sector and what's driving demand for international - especially Australian - products.
- Market entry essentials: Understand the legal, cultural and logistical considerations for exporting to the region, so you can avoid costly missteps.
- Platform and marketing know-how: Learn how to establish your online presence on key e-commerce sites like Amazon.ae and Noon.com, with practical steps to get started.
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