Dubai is taking a bold step towards a more digitally-driven future, one that benefits both local businesses and global travelers. The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has partnered with noon, a leading e-commerce platform in the region, to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with the tools they need to thrive in the digital marketplace. This strategic collaboration is a cornerstone of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, a comprehensive plan designed to position Dubai as a global hub for business, tourism, and trade by 2033.
The partnership between DET and noon aims to equip SMEs with the skills and resources to build a strong online presence, optimize their supply chains, and tap into a wider customer base, both locally and internationally. This is particularly impactful for Dubai’s tourism sector. Today’s tech-savvy travelers are increasingly turning to online platforms to research, book, and purchase travel experiences, including local products and services. By empowering SMEs to embrace the digital landscape, Dubai is ensuring that international tourists can seamlessly discover and engage with local businesses, enriching their travel experiences while boosting the emirate’s tourism economy.
The Dubai Traders Initiative, a key element of this partnership, offers incentives for both first-time and experienced sellers to join the noon platform. These incentives include onboarding packages aimed at increasing visibility and attracting new customers. Emirati sellers enjoy additional support through noon’s Mahali program, ensuring a smooth transition to the digital space.
This initiative aligns perfectly with the broader goals of Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which emphasizes the importance of SME growth in driving economic development. By empowering local businesses to digitize and expand their operations, Dubai is creating a more resilient economy capable of supporting a burgeoning tourism industry.
The collaboration between noon and DET exemplifies Dubai’s commitment to leveraging private sector expertise and government support to achieve ambitious economic goals. Faraz Khalid, CEO of noon, emphasizes the platform’s dedication to empowering local entrepreneurs and providing equal opportunities for businesses of all sizes. This partnership opens doors for Dubai-based SMEs to reach customers both domestically and internationally, enhancing the overall tourism experience and contributing significantly to the local economy.
The Dubai Traders Initiative is a testament to Dubai’s forward-thinking approach to economic growth. By harnessing the power of e-commerce and digital platforms, Dubai is not only fostering a more vibrant and competitive business environment but also creating a more engaging and personalized tourism experience for global travelers. As the global travel and tourism industry continues to embrace digital transformation, Dubai is positioning itself as a leading destination that caters to the evolving needs of the modern traveler.