Most popular online payment methods in the UAE 2024, by type

The most popular online payment method in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2024 was by card at approximately ** percent. It was followed by e-wallets at ** percent in that year. The most common card scheme for that year was Visa.

 UAE e-commerce

The e-commerce industry in the UAE has been booming over the years. The country was one of the fastest-growing e-commerce countries due to its readiness factors. The UAE has been working on improving its internet penetration and adoption, e-payment platforms, and growth of the logistic infrastructure which have contributed to the increased public trust in e-commerce platforms. Also, the industry is diverse as it incorporates government services and education payments in additional to the traditional shopping. The leading e-commerce segment in UAE in 2023 was toys, hobby and DIY. The government is continuously encouraging the electronic economy to solidify the country as a regional core for the growth of online businesses. An example is by providing support for entrepreneurial initiatives such as the Dubai Future Foundation.

 COVID-19 impact on UAE digital market 

  Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the value of e-commerce sales in the UAE was forecasted to reach ** billion U.S. dollars by 2022. However, new COVID-19 regulations have accelerated the growth of the industry, with online sales being the alternative to traditional shopping. Around one-third of respondents in a survey on the impact of COVID-19 on online shopping in the UAE in 2020 stated that they increased their online shopping frequency after the pandemic. The digital readiness of the country ensured a swift response to the pandemic. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) also eased e-commerce licenses in the early COVID-19 period.