Dubai Traders Accelerates Business Growth By Onboarding Over 2,400 New E-Commerce Sellers In First Year

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai Chambers have reported impressive first-year outcomes for the Dubai Traders programme. This initiative, part of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, aims to double the city's economy by 2033. Since its inception in September 2024, the programme has successfully onboarded over 2,400 new e-commerce sellers, solidifying Dubai's status as a global entrepreneurship hub.

Through strategic partnerships with noon and Amazon, Dubai Traders provides SMEs with essential support like onboarding assistance, licensing aid, advertising credits, and dedicated account management. These efforts have significantly boosted sellers' reach during peak sales events and facilitated access to millions of customers. The programme has also supported 1,000 existing online sellers with tailored growth strategies.

Dubai Traders has notably impacted Emirati-owned businesses, with over 370 joining the programme. This represents 15% of total participants and highlights the initiative's role in empowering local entrepreneurs to thrive in the digital economy. The collaboration between government and private sectors has opened new avenues for growth and innovation.

Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), stated: "Under the guidance of our visionary leadership, the Dubai Traders programme has moved from rollout to measurable impact in just 12 months, reflecting our commitment to create opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses to succeed in a rapidly growing digital economy."

Sellers working with noon have shown remarkable progress. About 42% expanded into new product categories, while 63% added new stock keeping units (SKUs). Additionally, one-third increased their monthly gross merchandise value (GMV) within a month of joining. Over 300 Emirati-owned businesses were also integrated into noon Minutes quick-commerce delivery platform.

Amazon sellers have also achieved significant results through Dubai Traders. Emirati and women-owned businesses make up 23% and 35% of onboarded sellers respectively. More than a third of these businesses listing over five products have reached top sales volumes in their categories. Furthermore, 15% have expanded internationally, with another 40% preparing to do so.

Public-Private Collaboration Driving Growth

Faraz Khalid, CEO of noon Group, remarked: "Dubai Traders has proven that when you connect ambition with infrastructure, growth becomes inevitable. We’re proud to help create real momentum for Dubai’s entrepreneurs." Jasmin Frick from Amazon added: "The remarkable success of Dubai Traders in its first year demonstrates the immense potential of our local business community to succeed in the digital economy."

Rami Rabia from Al Nassma Chocolate Factory LLC shared his experience: "Joining Dubai Traders gave us far more than a place in online retail – it gave us the right guidance to grow." His testimony underscores how practical support can make a substantial difference for entrepreneurs.

Future Prospects for SMEs

The programme exemplifies collaboration between government and private sectors by providing comprehensive digital tools and marketplace visibility for SMEs. Looking forward, Amazon plans to offer tailored account-management packages while expanding outreach to new seller segments. Noon will continue onboarding eligible participants into its rapid-delivery ecosystem.

By linking local businesses with global markets, Dubai Traders is turning domestic innovation into international sales opportunities. This initiative strengthens Dubai's reputation as an ideal launchpad for entrepreneurs targeting regional and international customers.

With inputs from WAM