Website globalization for the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is part of a traditional society full of symbols, rituals, values and contextual elements, as well as surprisingly unique patterns in consumer behavior. According to the UAE Ministry of Planning, the UAE is the most wired nation in the Arab world and also one of the top nations in online presence worldwide. In order to reach this potent market, a company’s website should be reviewed for both cultural customization and correctness, as well as be localized into the target languages for the locale.

Text by Martin Spethman Nitish Singh

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Website globalization for the United Arab Emirates

Currently, there are 29 free trade zones in the UAE, with another nine in development. The Jebel Ali Free Zone in Dubai is the most prominent. In these free trade zones, foreign companies are permitted to establish wholly-owned branches that are exempt from the requirement to appoint a national agent (sponsor).

Family ties, both nuclear and extended, are extremely important to UAE consumers. It is expected that people will share resources with their family. Although women play a central role in the family, especially when it comes to household items, it is considered unacceptable for them to live alone. The husband is the key decision-maker in the purchase of luxury items. It is considered important to carry items that give a person prestige, and these items can be designated by the consumer segments. These include western items and technology gadgets. UAE consumers seek out the best ...