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As Dubai gears up for its annual Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) shopping festival, new data from Checkout.com reveals strong momentum in digital commerce, with sharp increases in online spending during the 2024 edition—and indicators of even stronger performance expected in 2025.
According to the payment solutions provider, daily digital transactions in the UAE rose by 25 per cent year-on-year during DSS 2024. Consumers also spent more per transaction, with average ticket sizes increasing by 16 per cent. Checkout.com’s own UAE processing volumes surged 44 per cent year-on-year, reflecting greater consumer trust in digital payments and a shift toward online-first retail behaviour during key seasonal campaigns.
Deals
A deeper look at the transaction data shows significant changes in consumer buying patterns. Categories such as interior furnishings, recreation, and education saw marked increases, as residents took advantage of DSS deals to renovate homes, invest in local family activities, and prepare for the academic year. Toys and sporting goods also spiked as parents sought ways to keep children engaged over the summer. The automotive sector benefited from summer-specific promotions, driving up digital activity for vehicle purchases and services.
These findings align with Checkout.com’s State of Digital Commerce in MENA 2025 report, which found that 62 per cent of UAE consumers plan to increase their online shopping in the year ahead. Furthermore, 44 per cent of shoppers said they now browse in physical stores while comparing options online.
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“Dubai Summer Surprises continues to act as a key catalyst for digital commerce in the region,” said Remo Giovanni Abbondandolo, general manager for MENA at Checkout.com. “From household upgrades to family recreation and back-to-school prep, the data shows UAE consumers turning to digital channels to meet both everyday needs and high-value purchases. With the growth we’ve seen year over year, we expect 2025 to break even more records.”
As the UAE continues to lead the region in digital commerce adoption, the summer season is emerging as a critical engagement window for merchants aiming to reach a digitally savvy, convenience-driven consumer base.
