5 Trends Retailers Should Know for the Post COVID-19 GCC Market

5 Trends Retailers Should Know for the Post COVID-19 GCC Market

The coronavirus outbreak has created a crisis for retailers globally, with non-essential stores in most countries shut down anywhere between two weeks to two months.

The crisis poses specific challenges to the six GCC states, which were relying on economic boosts in 2020 after witnessing a sharp decline in the region's economic expansion last year.

Stringent measures have been adopted by all GCC states. UAE is undertaking mass testing and has completed one million tests. Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and UAE announced they would penalise those who spread fake news related to coronavirus, while Kuwait has ordered the deportation of expats who violated the 12-hour curfew imposed in the city.

The list also includes national sterilisation drives, strict social distancing rules, precautionary quarantine, and even movement permits aimed at mitigating the spread of the virus.

The clear message to stay at home unless absolutely necessary has spurred large numbers toward society toward digital, contactless shopping experiences. And in the digital space, it is the more local and more responsive retailers who win.

Consumers will go cashlessCOVID-19 may provide just the necessary push toward a cashless society and further digital connectivity. While digital payments have been growing with the advent of Benefit Pay in Bahrain, Mada in