DP World launches online marketplace to support artisans and small businesses during Ramadan

DP World, the Dubai-headquartered global port operator and owner of the Jebel Ali Free Zone, has launched a new online marketplace to support local artisans and small businesses in the UAE selling their products during Ramadan.

The website manasah.com will serve as a virtual Ramadan bazaar to help small businesses currently unable to trade in physical environments as a result of the Covid-19 precautionary measures in place across the country.

Sellers can now register on manasah.com for free.

The main sub categories currently displayed on the website include clothing, jewellery and accessories for men and women; beauty and skincare products; electronic items; health and fitness supplements; books and stationery supplies; and even a section for pets, among others.

The site features a contactless delivery option to minimise human interaction during the delivery process and to reduce any risks associated with transmission of the virus.

A press statement by the Government of Dubai Media Office on April 20 stated that the initiative was in partnership with the Department of Economic Development (DED), and Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World, said, “Many artisans and small traders have spent months making their products and we want to ensure they still have a marketplace. The purpose of manasah.com is to bring people together this Ramadan, even when they have to physically stay apart.”

Meanwhile, Sami Al Qamzi, director general of Dubai Economy, said, “Our partnership with DP World underlines our commitment to support young startups such as DED (Department of Economic Development) Trader licence holders to conduct business activities electronically.”

Customers can apply and receive a DED Trader licence wherever they are through the website dedtrader.ae.

Qazmi also said that the DED Trader licence provides an added marketing channel and e-commerce platform to the business community in Dubai, and is intended to enhance ease of doing business as well as drive overall competitiveness and sustainable growth of Dubai.

“The Manasah platform is a vital tool in supporting our small business sector, one that has been greatly impacted in recent weeks and one which needs a good deal of protection from the industry. This Ramadan will truly be unlike any we have experienced before and we know there is even more importance and emphasis on the spirit of our community, supporting our neighbours and coming together, while maintaining social distancing,” said Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of DFRE.

Read: Dubai-based DP World reports 8.3% drop in full-year profits in 2019