Focus on e-commerce growth in the UAE

A recent Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA) survey on Access and use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) revealed that 26 per cent of organisations have made online sales.

Of these organisations, 79 per cent conducted transactions via websites and 55 per cent via specialised Internet market places. The growth of e-commerce activities has been steady in the UAE, but, its real potential is yet to be exploited. A B2B online marketplace in the region, Tejari, recently participated in GITEX 2010 in Dubai as part of its ongoing efforts to encourage the use of e-commerce in the region.

In order to increase awareness, Tejari presented three key advantages of e-commerce at the exhibition. The presentations were entitled: 'Learn How to Increase Sales', 'Tejari ? New Market and Better Business Opportunities', and 'Reducing Cost'. Tejari also offered a 40 per cent discount on their e-Sell packages, which allow companies to bid online for thousands of reverse auctions/RFx published yearly on the Tejari online marketplace.

Tejari launched its operations in 2000 and offers buyers and sellers a platform for business to business (B2B) trading. The platform permits spotpurchasing and on-line auctions that provide participants real-time access to new markets. Key buyers include the Dubai Road and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Health Authority and Dubai Police.