Top E-Commerce Apps in the Middle East: Expert Insights and a Step-by-Step Guide to Building One

Have you ever stopped to think about how everything we need is now just a tap away? The eCommerce app market in the Middle East is booming, and it's not showing any signs of slowing down. With platforms like Amazon.ae, Noon, Namshi, and Mumzworld, you can shop 24/7 from the palm of your hand.

According to Statista, the region's eCommerce market is expected to hit $107 billion by 2025. Even more impressive, the number of users is projected to reach 232 billion by 2030. The shift to online shopping is undeniable, and mobile apps are driving this transformation.

Building your own online shopping app in the Middle East means more than just creating a digital storefront. It’s about building a brand experience that turns casual visitors into loyal customers.

In this blog, we’ll explore the top-performing e-commerce apps in the Middle East and walk you through the app development process to help you understand how to create a winning app for your business.

What is an E-commerce App?

An eCommerce app is a mobile or web-based platform that lets users browse, shop for, and purchase products or services online from a digital storefront, offering a convenient, personalized, and often faster experience than traditional websites by leveraging features like push notifications, mobile payments, and offline access to boost sales and customer loyalty for businesses like Amazon or Shopify-powered stores.

Key Statistics of Growth of eCommerce in GCC Countries

• Smartphone penetration has exceeded 60% in key urban hubs such as Dubai, Riyadh, and Cairo, with mobile subscriptions surpassing 1.2 billion across the region in 2023. 
• A staggering 96% of UAE consumers and 92% of Saudi online shoppers use shopping apps, demonstrating the dominance of mobile ecommerce. 
• In early 2025, app downloads in the GCC grew by 2.6% YoY, far outpacing the global growth rate of 0.5%.
• In-app purchases reached $700 million, a 20% YoY increase, with significant adoption in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Users collectively spent over 200 billion hours in apps in the first half of 2025, and app engagement in the region surpassed 20 billion hours during this period.

Key User Behavior & E-commerce Trends in the Middle East (2026)

• Faster Delivery Expectations: 68% of UAE consumers now demand delivery within 2 hours for essential items, fueling innovation in logistics.
• Social Commerce Surge: 78% of UAE online shoppers are purchasing through social media platforms.
• Digital Payment Growth: The UAE saw a 38% increase in digital payment volumes in 2023, with rapid growth in Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) and digital wallet services.

Top 12 Ecommerce Companies in the Middle East for 2026

1. Amazon.ae (Souq)

Amazon.ae, formerly known as Souq.com, is considered one of the top 5 e-commerce apps in the Middle East, especially in the UAE. Offering over 30 million products, Amazon.ae combines Souq’s local expertise with Amazon’s global infrastructure and cutting-edge technology. Since its rebranding in 2019, following Amazon’s $580 million acquisition of Souq.com in 2017, Amazon.ae has solidified its position as the “Amazon of the Middle East.”

The platform operates advanced fulfillment centers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Egypt, employing more than 2,500 people. Amazon.ae stands out as the leading e-commerce app in the UAE and across the Middle East due to its vast scale and user-friendly experience.

What Makes It Special

• Prime Delivery Perks: Free next-day or same-day delivery for Prime members in select cities.
• Trusted Brand: Well-established reputation with reliable customer service backed by Amazon’s global network.
• Local + Global Mix: A diverse range of products from both UAE-based and international sellers.

Best For

Shoppers who need fast delivery, brand reliability, and a wide selection of both local and international products.

2. Noon

Noon.com is one of the leading eCommerce platforms in the Middle East, offering a comprehensive online shopping experience across the UAE and the broader region. Based in the UAE, Noon provides an extensive range of products in categories such as electronics, homeware, fashion, beauty, kids' products, and daily essentials.

Key Features

• Strong partnerships with top global and regional brands
• Regular sales, promotions, and exclusive deals
• Customer-friendly 15-day return policy
• Dedicated Noon mobile app with exclusive offers and a seamless shopping experience

Noon’s Position as a Leading Online Shopping App in the Middle East

Noon is consistently ranked among the top eCommerce apps in the Middle East, often compared with Amazon.ae and Namshi. It sets itself apart with:

• A wide variety of products tailored to GCC countries
• A user-friendly app optimized for mobile shopping
• Efficient customer service and order tracking
• Flexible payment and delivery options, including installment plans

What Makes It Special:

• Fast Delivery Options: Noon offers same-day or next-day delivery in select cities, ensuring speedy service.
• Competitive Pricing: Known for attractive discounts and promotions, Noon provides budget-friendly options across various categories.
• Local Focus: Focused on serving the UAE and broader GCC region, with a strong presence in local markets and partnerships with regional sellers.

Best For:

Shoppers are looking for affordable prices, fast delivery, and a mix of local and regional products with reliable customer service.

3. Namshi

Namshi.com is a prominent online fashion and lifestyle retailer in the Middle East, headquartered in Dubai. With a workforce of around 800-900 employees, the company reported an annual revenue of approximately $26.1 million in 2024. Namshi attracts 2 to 3 million web visits each month, underscoring its importance in the region’s eCommerce landscape.

Offering a vast selection of over 700 top brands and millions of products, Namshi serves more than 1.2 million active customers across the region. It consistently ranks among the top eCommerce apps in the Middle East, further solidifying its position as a key player in the online retail sector.

What Makes It Special:

• Fashion-centric app featuring over 1,500 global brands
• Regular style drops and exclusive influencer collaborations
• Express delivery and free returns within the GCC
• Personalized fashion recommendations tailored to individual tastes
• Sleek app interface designed for a younger, trend-focused audience

Best For:

Fashion-forward shoppers are seeking branded clothing and a personalized, curated shopping experience.

4. Ounass.com

Ounass.com is a premier luxury eCommerce platform in the Middle East, launched in December 2016 by the Al Tayer Group. The platform distinguishes itself by offering a highly personalized shopping experience, including services such as 2-hour delivery in Dubai. Targeting affluent luxury shoppers, Ounass focuses on regional tastes and cultural preferences, providing personalized shopping services and exclusive fashion content.

As a leading luxury B2C app in the Middle East, Ounass is recognized for its fast delivery and curated selection of premium brands, earning its place among the top eCommerce apps in the region.

What Makes It Special:

• Top Luxury Platform: The leading luxury e-commerce platform in the Middle East.
• Exclusive Designer Collections: Curated selections from top brands like Gucci, Dior, and Prada.
• Exceptional Service: Premium unboxing experience and concierge-level service.
• Exclusive Collections & Events: Access to capsule collections and high-end fashion events.

Best For:

Affluent shoppers and fashion enthusiasts who appreciate designer luxury and VIP-level service.

5. Shein

Shein is ranked among the top 10 e-commerce apps in the Middle East, gaining significant success due to its extensive product catalog, tailored offers, affordable pricing, efficient logistics, and Arabic-language support.

The brand has become a favorite among Gen Z and Millennial consumers, establishing itself as a key player in the fashion e-commerce sector. Shein’s business model enables direct shipping from manufacturing partners to customers, which may result in longer wait times but offers more competitive prices.

What Makes SHEIN Special:

• Affordable Fashion for All: A vast selection of trendy clothing, shoes, and accessories at budget-friendly prices.
• Daily New Arrivals: Thousands of fresh styles added every day.
• Localized App Experience: Tailored pricing and delivery options for the GCC region.
• Global Reach: Ships from China with local warehouses across MENA for faster delivery.

Best For:

Young shoppers are seeking trendy, low-cost outfits delivered quickly and conveniently.

6. Desertcart

Desertcart is a leading online shopping platform in the Middle East and beyond, offering access to over 100 million products sourced globally. The platform’s business model emphasizes international shipping with priority delivery to countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.

Key Highlights about Desertcart:

• Over 50 million products available, serving millions of visitors each month
• Expanded its reach to more than 164 countries worldwide
• Offers a premium membership, DC+ Plus, with exclusive benefits
• Established regional warehouses and utilizes advanced technology like AI to enhance customer service

What Makes Desertcart Special:

• Global Marketplace Access: Ships over 100 million products to the Middle East.
• Rare & Imported Products: Offers items not available in local stores.
• Easy Customs Handling: Takes care of import duties and shipping logistics for buyers.

Best For:

Shoppers are looking for unique or imported products that aren't available in local markets.

7. BasharaCare

BasharaCare.com is a Dubai-based online retailer specializing in premium skincare, hair care, makeup, and grooming products for both men and women in the Middle East. Founded in 2012, the platform offers over 100 clinically-backed and luxury spa-associated brands, many of which are exclusive to their platform within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

Privately held, BasharaCare employs around 14-50 people and has successfully raised approximately $1 million in Series A funding. The company has built a strong reputation as a trusted source for cosmeceuticals and niche skincare products in its market.

What Makes BasharaCare Special:

• Dermatologist-Approved Products: Offers premium skincare, haircare, and wellness brands.
• Personalized Consultations: Free online skincare advice and product recommendations.
• Exclusive Medical Brands: Stocks clinical-grade items like Obagi, SkinCeuticals, and Dermalogica.
• Authenticity Guarantee: Products are sourced directly from authorized distributors.

Best For:

Customers seeking genuine, dermatologist-backed skincare and wellness essentials.

8. Sharaf DG

Sharaf DG is a leading electronics retailer in the Middle East, founded in 2005. The company is known for offering over 25,000 electronic products and accessories from reputable international brands, catering to over 1 million customers monthly. 

The Sharaf DG app is regarded as one of the best e-commerce apps in the Middle East for electronics shopping. The app has over 10 million downloads and a high user rating, making it a preferred platform for tech enthusiasts in the GCC and MENA regions.

What Makes Sharaf DG Special:

• Electronics Powerhouse: Features top brands in tech, appliances, and gadgets.
• Multi-Channel Experience: Seamless integration of online store, app, and physical outlets.
• Exclusive Tech Deals: Offers competitive pricing on smartphones, laptops, and accessories.
• DG Shield Protection: Extended warranties and protection plans for devices.

Best For:

Tech enthusiasts and everyday buyers are seeking branded gadgets with warranty-backed assurance.

9. LetsTango.com

LetsTango.com, founded in 2013, is a UAE-based innovative eCommerce platform that has quickly become one of the fastest-growing online shopping stores in the region. The platform stands out with its pioneering e-returns process, fully online, along with dedicated service centers at easily accessible locations.

With a customer-focused approach inspired by the "it takes two to tango" philosophy, LetsTango.com emphasizes partnership and personalization. The platform attracts around 1.5 million monthly visitors, including 300,000 new customers. As one of the top e-commerce players in the UAE, LetsTango.com continues to grow rapidly, cementing its position as a key player in the Middle East market.

What Makes LetsTango Special:

• UAE’s First “Click & Collect” E-Store: Offers the convenience of online shopping with the option for in-store pickup.
• Wide Product Variety: Features electronics, beauty, fashion, and home essentials.
• Transparent Shopping: Provides real-time product availability updates and no hidden charges.

Best For:

Shoppers who value transparent pricing, flexible delivery options, and authentic UAE-based sellers

10. Carrefour UAE

Carrefour, a prominent hypermarket and supermarket chain in the UAE, is operated by Majid Al Futtaim, which holds the exclusive franchise to run Carrefour in 37 countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Serving over 750,000 customers daily, Carrefour offers a vast product range of more than 100,000 food and non-food items.

Carrefour UAE’s e-commerce app is a top online shopping platform in the GCC, particularly known for its grocery delivery services. With over 10 million downloads on the Google Play Store, the app enjoys a high rating, making it a popular choice among users in the region.

What Makes Carrefour UAE Special:

• Trusted Retail Brand: Operated by Majid Al Futtaim, a well-known name in retail.
• Massive Inventory: A wide range of products, from groceries to electronics.
• Omnichannel Shopping: Offers a seamless shopping experience across the app, website, and in-store.
• Daily Offers: Regular sales, bundle deals, and loyalty rewards through Carrefour MyCLUB.

Best For:

Everyday shoppers seeking fast grocery delivery and reliable product quality from a trusted brand.

11. Groupon

Groupon, founded in 2008, is a US-based global e-commerce marketplace that connects subscribers with local merchants. The platform uses a group-discount model, where deals are activated once a minimum number of buyers commit.

What Makes Groupon Special:

• Deals & Discounts Hub: Exclusive offers on dining, travel, beauty, and entertainment.
• Experiential Focus: Offers discounted local experiences for users to explore.
• Daily Promotions: Flash deals and limited-time offers for budget-conscious shoppers.
• Multi-Category Coverage: Covers everything from spa days to electronics and hotel stays.
• Easy Voucher Redemption: Instant access to discount codes through the app.

Best For:

Deal-hunters and adventure-seekers who love saving on experiences and products

12. Mumzworld.com

Mumzworld.com is a popular e-commerce platform in the Middle East, primarily focused on products for mothers, babies, and children. It was founded in 2011 to make mothers’ lives easier by offering a comprehensive range of childcare, maternity, and child-related products.

The company has secured around $20 million in funding and generated approximately $33.7 million in revenue in 2024. Mumzworld claims to have impacted over 2 million mothers across the Middle East region through its community and social initiatives.

What Makes Mumzworld Special:

• MENA’s #1 Parenting E-Commerce Site: Focused on mothers, babies, and kids.
• Extensive Product Range: Over 250,000 products available.
• Trusted Global Brands: Offers top brands like Pampers, Chicco, Philips Avent, LEGO, and more.
• Expert Advice: Provides parenting tips, guides, and product reviews within the platform.

Best For:

Parents looking for reliable baby products, trusted brands, and a community-driven shopping experience.

A Snapshot of the Best Ecommerce Apps in the Middle East for 2026

Here’s a quick overview of the top e-commerce apps in the Middle East:

How are the Top Ecommerce Apps in the Middle East Built?

Ecommerce development Dubai has become a key driver for businesses looking to expand their online presence, with tailored solutions that cater to the region's unique market needs. Here is a step-by-step process to develop ecommerce app:

Step 1: Conduct Market Research

The growth of B2C eCommerce apps in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, shows a significant shift towards online shopping. Understanding shopper behavior is key to identifying which products perform best, the features users expect, and how cultural factors influence buying decisions.

Research should include:

• Current trends in online shopping apps across the Middle East
• Preferred payment methods of local customers
• High-performing categories, such as fashion, electronics, and groceries
• Competitors and their user engagement models

This data will guide your decisions before moving forward with e-commerce app development in the Middle East.

Step 2: Choose Functionalities & Features

After understanding your audience, define the features that will enhance the shopping experience. Focus on practicality and addressing customer pain points.

Key features for e-commerce apps in the UAE include:

• Personalized product recommendations using AI
• Multi-language and multi-currency support
• Seamless checkout with regional payment gateways
• Live order tracking and delivery updates
• Integration with local courier services for cross-border eCommerce

Step 3: Select a Development Path

Once the features are decided, choose your development approach. There are two main options for custom eCommerce mobile app development:

• Building from Scratch: Best for unique business ideas and startups wanting to establish their own brand identity.
• Using an eCommerce Framework: Ideal for saving time and costs by building on platforms like Magento, Shopify, or WooCommerce.

For startups in the Middle East, combining Agile methodology with a framework approach can accelerate development and make future updates easier.

Step 4: Design UI/UX

Design is crucial for retaining users. Customers often decide whether to stay or leave an app within seconds, so your design needs to be user-friendly and culturally adaptable.

Key design considerations for Middle Eastern markets:

• Clear product images and Arabic language support
• Easy navigation from browsing to checkout
• Trust-building, secure-looking layouts
• Consistent design across iOS and Android

Agile design teams use prototyping tools and user testing early in the process to refine the interface based on real user feedback.

Step 5: eCommerce App Development

Once your wireframes and UI/UX designs are approved, the development phase begins, typically using Agile methodology with short sprints.

During each sprint:

• Developers build app sections, like the cart system or user profiles.
• Testers ensure each feature performs well and is bug-free.
• Daily meetings keep the process transparent, addressing issues as they arise.

This approach ensures rapid releases without compromising quality. Modern apps often include:

• AI-driven recommendation engines
• AR-based product previews
• Voice search integration
• Secure digital wallets compatible with Middle Eastern payment systems

Step 6: Test Your eCommerce App

Testing happens continuously throughout the project, with each sprint including dedicated testing cycles to catch bugs early and confirm that features integrate smoothly.

Testing for online shopping apps in the Middle East must focus on:

• Multi-currency and multilingual compatibility
• Device compatibility across Android, iOS, and tablets
• Security testing for payment systems
• Speed and load testing, especially during high-traffic sales seasons

The goal is to ensure the app is stable and ready for real-world use, saving time and costs by identifying issues early.

Step 7: Deploy & Gather Feedback

Once testing is complete, the app is ready for deployment. But the work doesn’t stop there. The Agile process encourages continuous improvement based on user feedback.

Deploy your app to app stores and track user interactions, collecting data on:

• User retention
• Cart abandonment
• Feature usage
• App performance during heavy traffic

For e-commerce startups in the Middle East, gathering and acting on feedback is crucial to refining the app and optimizing its performance.

How Much Does it Cost to Build the Best eCommerce Apps in the Middle East?

Factors such as platform choice, feature set, and integration needs heavily influence the eCommerce app development cost, making each project unique. If you're considering custom eCommerce app development for the Middle East, here’s an overview of the typical costs:

Typical eCommerce App Development Cost Ranges

• Basic eCommerce App: For an app with simple features, a single platform, and limited customization, the cost ranges from USD $20,000 to $40,000.
• Mid-Level eCommerce App: For an app with dual platforms (iOS/Android), multi-language support (Arabic + English), payment integration, and order tracking, the cost typically falls between USD $40,000 to $80,000.
• Feature-Rich or Enterprise-Grade eCommerce App: For a high-scale app with advanced features such as AI-powered recommendations, vendor marketplaces, advanced analytics, and cross-border capabilities tailored for the Middle East, the development cost can range from USD $80,000 to $150,000+.

How DXB APPS Builds the Best Mobile Apps in Saudi Arabia and the UAE?

DXB APPS builds the best mobile apps in Saudi Arabia and the UAE by combining local expertise with cutting-edge technology to create seamless, user-centric experiences. 

DXB APPS as the best mobile app development Dubai company, leverages advanced technologies like AI, machine learning, and scalable backend systems to ensure high performance, security, and scalability. For businesses in need of advanced web solutions, web development Dubai services by DXB APPS ensures top-tier functionality, security, and user experience.

The team of mobile app developers at DXB APPS prioritizes understanding the cultural and market-specific needs of the region, which allows them to tailor each app for local users. 

With an Agile app development Dubai process, the team accelerates app development mechanism while remaining adaptable to evolving user needs. Moreover, the commitment to ongoing support and maintenance ensures that every app continues to deliver value long after launch, making DXB APPS a trusted mobile application development Abu Dhabi company.

Conclusion

The e-commerce landscape in the Middle East is rapidly evolving, with apps like Amazon.ae, Noon, and Namshi leading the charge in reshaping how consumers shop online. As mobile penetration continues to rise and the demand for seamless shopping experiences grows, there is immense potential for new entrants to carve a niche in this competitive market. By understanding the unique needs of the regional customer base, leveraging advanced technologies like AI, and offering localized features, businesses can develop e-commerce apps that stand out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the estimated cost to build an eCommerce app in 2026?

The cost to build an eCommerce app depends on the project size, design complexity, and features. Basic apps start around $20,000 to $40,000, while large-scale platforms with AI integration, multi-vendor support, and cross-border eCommerce features for the Middle East can reach $150,000 or more.

Q 2. Which e-commerce apps are best in the Middle East?

Here is the list of the top 10 ecommerce applications that are ruling the market in the Middle East: 

1. Amazon.ae (Souq)
2. Noon.com
3. Namshi.com
4. Ounass.com 
5. Shein
6. Desertcart
7. BasharaCare.com
8. Sharaf DG
9. LetsTango.com
10. Carrefour UAE

3. Are E-Commerce Apps in the Middle East Localized for Language and Payment?

Yes, most e-commerce apps in the Middle East are fully localized to cater to the diverse needs of the region. They typically offer bilingual interfaces, ensuring accessibility for both Arabic and English-speaking users. Additionally, these apps support a wide range of local payment methods, including credit and debit cards, digital wallets, cash on delivery (COD), and buy now, pay later (BNPL) options.

4. Which are the Best E-Commerce Apps for Fashion and Luxury Goods in the Middle East?

The best fashion e-commerce apps are as follows:

• Namshi - Popular for affordable fashion.
• Ounass - Specializes in luxury and designer collections.
• Shein - Known for low-cost brands.

5. Why are Temu and Amazon the Best in the Middle East Market?

These apps are the best because of:

• Competitive pricing and offers deep discounts.
• Massive product range under one platform.
• Logistics strength and advanced delivery networks.