2026 shopping survey

Shopping has changed. Here's the proof.

See how 20,999 shoppers across the UAE and Saudi Arabia discover, decide and pay in 2026, backed by our largest shopping survey yet.

What today's shopper actually wants

The 2026 edition maps the full arc of the modern purchase journey across the UAE and Saudi Arabia — from discovery to conversion to walk-away. Built on the largest sample in the report's history, this is regional retail intelligence you can act on.

What stands out

43%

Use AI to help decide what to buy

While only 30% trusts AI today, it is clear that AI tools within shopping will become a standard in the years to come

70%

Would avoid retailers without flexible payments

Flexible payments are more of a requirement for shoppers than they are a differentiator.

68%

Know what they want before entering a store

Even if you sell offline, having a strong online presence is key to getting in touch with your audience.

Based on 20,999 shopper responses

The survey was conducted at the end of 2025 across Saudi Arabia and UAE, with respondents spanning different ages, income bands and nationalities.