UAE payments provider launches new e-commerce platform for SMEs

UAE-based payment solutions provider Network International has launched a new e-commerce platform, ‘Go-Online’, targeted at local small, medium and start-up businesses.

The platform has been set up in partnership with e-commerce player Shopmatic, a statement said.

UAE merchants using the platform can create their own web store and start selling their products.

Go-Online’s interface can be customised to cater to specific audience groups, and offers over 60 mobile-responsive design templates that allow simple product uploads and edits.

Samer Soliman, managing director – Middle East, Network International, said: “Our aim is to enhance the e-commerce ecosystem by offering potential entrepreneurs a ready world-class platform with an integrated payment gateway.

“Go-Online will hasten go-to-market for smaller e-commerce entrants, enhance customer acquisition and instill confidence in shoppers looking to purchase online.”

Dubai’s and the Middle East’s e-commerce industry has seen a major boom in recent years.

According to Frost & Sullivan, the e-commerce industry in the UAE is expected to reach $10bn this year.

As smartphone penetration rates rise, e-commerce and mobile-commerce are anticipated to grow further with online shoppers now representing 62 per cent of the UAE’s population.

In April, Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA) announced that it has formed a joint venture with Wasl Asset Management Group to create a Dhs2.7bn ($735.1m) free zone for e-commerce firms.

Dubai CommerCity will span 2.1 million square feet in the Umm Ramool area close to Dubai International Airport and offer e-commerce firms logistical advantages due to its links to air, land and sea routes.

Read more: Dubai launches Dhs2.7bn e-commerce freezone

The acquisition of Souq.com by Amazon last year and the recent launch of the $1bn noon.com site by Dubai businessman Mohamed Alabbar in the UAE are all set to have a major impact on the region’s online retail market, say experts.

Also read: The future of e-commerce in the UAE