Online sellers across the Middle East know the final quarter can define the year. Shoppers in the UAE and across the region start browsing early, buy steadily through global sales events, and then create a fresh wave of activity as the holidays approach.
Recent Google-Visa research1 shows that in the lead up to holiday and peak-sale period, shopper intent rises sharply across non-essential categories such as fashion, beauty, electronics, and lifestyle products. During this build-up, search volumes in these segments grew by around 10%, while spending rose 17% in the UAE. This increase in shopping activity raises expectations on delivery performance and puts more pressure on e-tailers to get every order right.
Zaid Khammash, Managing Director of Operations at FedEx Middle East, India Subcontinent, and Africa, sums it up: “Peak season is when consumer expectations rise, and businesses need to stay clear, consistent, and dependable. Consumers want quick delivery, clear updates, and confidence that their gifts will reach the right place at the right time. With early planning and the right logistics support, businesses can turn that seasonal pressure into an opportunity for real growth.”
Even if your own plans are already in motion, there is still room to refine your approach and capture the shoppers who leave decisions to the last minute. These five steps will help convert more carts, reduce service issues, and strengthen loyalty long after the season ends.
1. Extend your return window Shoppers appreciate flexibility when buying gifts for colleagues, friends, and family. A longer return window helps reduce hesitation and encourages quicker checkout decisions. Consider at least 30 days during peak season. It signals confidence in your products and builds trust with new buyers.
Keep it simple. Provide clear return labels and easy tracking so customers always know the location of their package. A smooth return experience often turns first-time shoppers into repeat customers.
2. Add a personal touch Gifting plays a big role across the region, and small thoughtful touches help an online store stand out. You do not need full customization, which may slow fulfillment. Keep it fast and meaningful.
Handwritten notes, festive cards, or branded gift boxes can elevate the unboxing experience without complicating operations.
3. Build trust through visibility For today’s online shoppers, visibility is as valuable as speed. They want to track their orders in real time and know exactly when to expect them. Businesses that offer clear, timely updates through the channel most convenient to the customer — whether email, text, or WhatsApp — give shoppers confidence that their purchases are on the way.
Simple visual confirmations, such as picture proof of delivery, also helps build reassurance and trust.
4. Let your data guide your final push The recent orders received already reveal what shoppers are responding to. Look at items gaining momentum, not only the established bestsellers. These trends often signal what will move fastest in December.
Track add-to-cart rates, repeat purchases, and categories seeing rising search interest. Match those patterns with regional insights, especially strong demand in beauty, gifting accessories, and affordable lifestyle products.
5. Offer flexible, fast delivery options Convenience drives online spending in categories like fashion, beauty, and electronics2. Delivery options that balance competitive pricing with reliable three to four business days shipping to the US, Europe, and Asia Pacific markets, give shoppers more confidence at checkout.
When the delivery timeline is clear and fits their needs, they are more likely to complete their purchase and return for future sales.
Finish the season strong Small adjustments can make a measurable difference. Give shoppers clarity when their orders arrive, keep gifting simple, and offer delivery options they can count on. These steps help lift conversions now and build repeat business into the new year.
