Post by : Bianca
Haleem
In its initial 12 months, Dubai Traders supported more than 2,400 Dubai-based SMEs to join leading online marketplaces, connecting them with millions of potential customers. The initiative forms part of the D33 economic agenda aimed at doubling Dubai’s economy by 2033.
Through collaborations with platforms such as Amazon and noon, the programme delivers end-to-end onboarding, licensing assistance, advertising credits, priority product placement and dedicated account management. These measures have improved merchants’ visibility, encouraged use of fulfilment services and boosted sales during peak demand.
Over 1,000 active sellers received customised growth support, and 370 Emirati-owned businesses signed up in the first year, reflecting the programme’s emphasis on empowering local entrepreneurs.
Sellers on noon reported rapid gains: 42% expanded into new product categories, 63% increased their SKU ranges, and roughly one-third multiplied their monthly gross merchandise value within a month of joining. More than 300 Emirati merchants also adopted noon Minutes to enable faster last-mile delivery.
Amazon participants recorded similar uplifts: Emirati-owned firms made up 23% of onboarded sellers and women-owned businesses accounted for 35%. A third of sellers listing over five products reached top sales volumes in their categories, 15% began selling internationally and a further 40% are preparing to expand abroad.
Looking ahead, Amazon and noon plan to expand account management, widen seller segments and pilot financial solutions to support micro-enterprises’ cash flow. Ongoing training clinics will continue to advise SMEs on logistics, branding and international expansion.
By linking local entrepreneurship with global marketplaces, Dubai Traders is helping convert innovation into measurable revenue and strengthening Dubai’s standing as a regional hub for digital commerce.
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