E-Commerce News & Trends

Digital Economy Gains Momentum Again in the UAE: E-Commerce and Online Marketplaces Are Recovering

The United Arab Emirates continues to reinforce its strong position at both the regional and global levels in the digital economy and cross-border e-commerce. Recent data shows that the country’s online marketplaces have recovered rapidly after a brief slowdown, indicating that consumer confidence and digital trade momentum remain at high levels.

As geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue, the UAE is strengthening its position in the digital economy. According to data from Bayut and dubizzle, the slowdown seen across online real estate, automotive, rental and consumer goods categories in the UAE was short-lived.

Real Estate Sector Returned Close to Historical Averages

In the real estate sector, buyer activity fell to as low as 47 percent of normal levels at its weakest point, but rose to over 80 percent within just 9 days. Listing impressions, views and demand also recovered in a similar way, approaching historical averages. It was considered notable that this rise took place during Ramadan, a period when real estate activity usually slows down.

On the pricing side, no significant fluctuation was observed. In residential sales, existing trends were maintained in both off-plan and ready units, while no unusual change was seen in either long-term or short-term rentals. This picture indicates that investors and buyers are maintaining a long-term perspective rather than reacting to short-term developments.

Although the automotive category experienced a sharper decline in the initial stage, impressions, views and customer demand for vehicle listings gradually began to rise again. The fastest recovery, however, was seen in the consumer goods category. As daily buying and selling behavior returned to normal quickly, performance in some sub-segments matched and even exceeded historical averages.

Cross-Border E-Commerce Stands Out in the Digital Economy

The UAE’s strength in the digital economy is not limited to the domestic market alone. The country also stands out as one of the global and regional hubs for cross-border e-commerce. According to Standard Chartered’s assessment, the UAE ranks among the world’s strongest markets in terms of readiness for digital trade. Advanced logistics infrastructure, a flexible regulatory structure, free zones, a strong banking system, and rapid digital transformation on the government side all play an important role in this.

According to a study by Euromonitor International and EZDubai, the UAE e-commerce market reached approximately AED 32.3 billion in 2024. The market is expected to exceed AED 50.6 billion by 2029 and record a compound annual growth rate of 9.4 percent during this period. These figures show that the UAE is not only expanding its own digital trade volume, but is also becoming a strategic launchpad for companies seeking to expand into Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

According to experts, the latest recovery shows that the UAE market is not retreating; on the contrary, it is accelerating again thanks to its strong digital infrastructure, investor confidence and high adaptability.

UAE Leads the MENA Startup Ecosystem: $162.8 Million Investment in February

5.8 Billion Shipments Raise Alarm as EU Industry Pushes for Immediate Action on Imports

E-commerce industry faces surge in cross-border shipments as parcels pile up in EU logistics warehouse

A coalition of European industry and retail organisations has called on the European Union to take urgent action to address growing challenges linked to cross-border e-commerce imports.

In a joint statement released in Brussels, industry groups warned that existing regulatory gaps are undermining fair competition, weakening consumer protection, and putting increasing pressure on the EU’s Single Market.

Surge in Cross-Border E-Commerce Imports

The rapid expansion of global e-commerce has significantly increased the volume of small parcels entering the EU. In 2025 alone, around 5.8 billion shipments were delivered into the bloc, creating serious challenges for customs authorities and market surveillance systems.

Many of these imports reportedly fail to comply with EU standards, including product safety rules, VAT obligations, environmental regulations, and intellectual property protections. This situation allows non-compliant sellers—often based outside the EU—to gain a competitive advantage over European businesses that are required to meet stricter regulatory requirements.

Risks for Consumers and Businesses

Industry representatives say the current system exposes consumers to unsafe or misleading products, particularly in categories such as electronics, textiles, and consumer goods.

At the same time, European companies face increasing pressure from unfair competition, as non-EU sellers can bypass compliance costs and regulatory checks. The coalition also highlighted the broader economic impact, warning that these trends could harm local industries, disrupt supply chains, and accelerate the decline of physical retail across European cities.

Recent EU data further supports these concerns, showing that a significant share of imported e-commerce goods fail to meet EU safety standards, reinforcing calls for stronger enforcement mechanisms.

Call for Faster Regulatory Action

While the EU is already working on reforms under the Union Customs Code—particularly the introduction of the “deemed importer” system—industry groups argue that the current timeline is too slow. The system is not expected to be fully implemented until 2028.

Instead, the coalition is urging policymakers to introduce interim measures that can be applied immediately. One key proposal is to require all non-EU sellers to appoint a legally responsible representative within the EU. This would make it easier for authorities to enforce compliance and ensure accountability across cross-border transactions.

Strengthening Environmental and Compliance Rules

Another major concern raised by the coalition relates to environmental obligations. Industry groups are calling for stricter enforcement of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules, particularly in areas such as packaging, electronics, batteries, and textile waste.

Ensuring that online marketplaces and foreign sellers comply with these requirements would help prevent “free-riding” practices and create a more level playing field for European businesses operating under sustainability regulations.

A Growing Push for Immediate Change

The coalition’s message is clear: action cannot wait. With e-commerce imports continuing to grow at scale, industry leaders are urging the European Commission and Member States to accelerate reforms and introduce practical enforcement measures now—rather than relying solely on long-term regulatory changes.

They argue that faster intervention is essential to protect consumers, restore fair competition, and maintain the integrity of the EU’s internal market.

Source: EURATEX

APAC E-Commerce: 5 Growth Opportunities as Regulators Tighten Product Claim Rules

APAC e-commerce growth trends across Asia-Pacific markets

APAC e-commerce markets are expanding rapidly, but stricter regulations on misleading product claims are reshaping how food and nutraceutical brands sell products online across the region. As digital commerce expands across Asia-Pacific, regulators are paying closer attention to how products are marketed on online marketplaces and social commerce platforms.

Industry experts say misleading claims – particularly in sectors such as food supplements, functional foods and nutraceutical products – have become a growing concern for regulators. The shift reflects an effort to protect consumers and ensure that product marketing aligns with scientific evidence and regulatory standards.

APAC Regulators Increase Scrutiny of Product Claims

Regulatory bodies across several markets in the Asia-Pacific region are increasing oversight of online marketing claims. Authorities are particularly focused on exaggerated health benefits and unsupported product statements that appear on digital marketplaces and social media platforms.

Experts warn that companies relying on aggressive or misleading messaging could face reputational damage and regulatory penalties. As enforcement strengthens, brands are being encouraged to adopt clearer labeling practices and provide credible scientific support for product claims.

Stronger Oversight of Online Health and Food Marketing

Authorities are paying closer attention to how food and nutraceutical products are promoted through digital channels. Claims related to immunity, weight management and disease prevention have become key areas of regulatory focus.

This growing oversight is expected to reshape marketing strategies across the region’s rapidly evolving e-commerce ecosystem.

Opportunities Emerging for Transparent Brands

While tighter rules may create challenges for some companies, industry observers say the changes could benefit brands that prioritize transparency and compliance.

Companies that provide accurate product information and credible scientific backing may gain stronger consumer trust. As misleading claims become harder to sustain in the market, compliant brands may find new opportunities to differentiate themselves.

Social Commerce Continues to Drive Online Sales

Despite regulatory pressure, digital platforms remain central to the region’s retail ecosystem. Social commerce platforms and online marketplaces continue to drive cross-border sales, particularly in markets with highly connected consumers.

Experts note that platforms such as TikTok and other social commerce channels are increasingly used to promote wellness and food products, though brands must ensure that promotional messages comply with local rules.

Fragmented Rules Create Challenges for APAC Cross-Border Sellers

One of the biggest challenges for companies operating in the region is the fragmented regulatory environment. Each country maintains different rules regarding labeling, product claims and ingredient approvals.

China, for example, enforces strict safety standards for food and nutraceutical products, while India is emerging as a fast-growing digital market with increasingly active regulatory oversight.

As a result, companies expanding across APAC often need to adjust compliance strategies and product messaging for each individual market.

Overall, the region continues to present strong long-term potential for global brands. However, success in APAC e-commerce increasingly depends on regulatory compliance, transparent communication and a strong understanding of local market requirements.

Source: FoodNavigator-Asia

Air Cargo Shifts: 5 Ways E-Commerce Growth Is Reshaping Global Logistics

Air cargo aircraft loading freight at an international airport logistics hub

Global air cargo networks are undergoing significant changes as geopolitical tensions and the rapid growth of e-commerce reshape the movement of goods across international markets.

Airlines, logistics companies and cargo operators are increasingly adjusting their routes and supply chain strategies to respond to shifting trade patterns, regulatory pressures and disruptions in key aviation corridors. At the same time, the continued expansion of cross-border online shopping is driving strong demand for faster and more reliable air freight services.

Industry analysts say the intersection of geopolitical developments and digital commerce is accelerating structural changes across the global air freight sector.

E-Commerce Demand Continues to Drive Air Freight Growth

The rapid expansion of e-commerce has become one of the most important forces shaping global air cargo demand. Online marketplaces and international retailers rely heavily on air freight to transport high-value and time-sensitive goods quickly between production centers and consumer markets.

As consumers increasingly expect faster delivery times, logistics providers are expanding their air freight capacity and improving operational efficiency to support global e-commerce supply chains.

Air freight offers a major advantage for online retail shipments because of its speed and reliability compared with other transportation methods. This makes it a critical component of cross-border e-commerce logistics, particularly for electronics, fashion products and other high-demand consumer goods.

Industry data suggests that e-commerce shipments now represent a growing share of global air cargo volumes, reflecting the increasing role of digital commerce in international trade.

Geopolitical Developments Affect Global Cargo Routes

Recent geopolitical tensions have also created new challenges for the air freight industry. Disruptions affecting certain regions, particularly in parts of the Middle East, have forced airlines to adjust flight paths and rethink their logistics strategies.

Air cargo carriers that previously relied on established aviation corridors must now consider alternative routes, which can increase operating costs and extend transit times.

These developments highlight how geopolitical uncertainty can quickly influence global logistics networks. However, air cargo operators have demonstrated flexibility by adapting their routes and maintaining supply chain continuity despite changing conditions.

Trade Policies and Regulations Add Complexity

In addition to geopolitical risks, shifting trade policies and regulatory changes are also influencing global cargo flows.

Tariffs, export controls and evolving trade regulations can alter the economics of cross-border shipping, forcing logistics companies and online retailers to reconsider traditional supply chain routes.

As a result, many global companies are diversifying their logistics strategies and investing in more resilient supply chain infrastructure to reduce exposure to policy changes.

This approach allows businesses to maintain stable international delivery operations even as the regulatory environment continues to evolve.

Air Cargo Industry Adapts to a Changing Market

Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook for the air cargo industry remains closely tied to the continued growth of e-commerce.

Airlines and logistics providers are investing in digital technologies, automation and improved tracking systems to increase efficiency and support the rising volume of online retail shipments.

New cargo hubs and logistics infrastructure are also being developed in several regions as companies seek to strengthen supply chain resilience and improve global connectivity.

As geopolitical dynamics and global trade patterns continue to shift, air freight will remain a critical backbone of international e-commerce logistics, ensuring that goods move quickly and efficiently across borders.

The evolving relationship between geopolitics and digital commerce is likely to continue reshaping global air cargo networks in the years ahead.

Source: Aviation Week

JD.com Launches Joybuy Across 6 European Countries in Bold Expansion

JD.com launches Joybuy e-commerce platform in Europe to compete with Amazon

Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com has launched its new online retail platform Joybuy across six European countries, marking one of the company’s most significant international expansion moves to date. The rollout signals JD.com’s ambition to challenge established players such as Amazon in one of the world’s most competitive digital retail markets.

The platform debuted in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg, offering a broad assortment of products ranging from consumer electronics and home appliances to beauty items and groceries. At launch, the marketplace includes more than 100,000 products from global brands including Apple and Samsung.

JD.com Accelerates Global Expansion

The European launch comes as JD.com looks beyond its domestic market for growth. Competition in China’s e-commerce sector has intensified in recent years, pushing major platforms to explore new international opportunities.

By introducing Joybuy in Europe, JD.com is positioning itself as a direct competitor to Amazon while also expanding the global reach of both Chinese and international brands through its marketplace infrastructure.

Founded by billionaire entrepreneur Liu Qiangdong, JD.com has grown into one of the world’s largest online retailers. The company generated more than $150 billion in annual revenue and has built a reputation for its integrated logistics network and fast delivery capabilities.

Fast Delivery at the Core of the Strategy

A key feature of Joybuy’s European rollout is its focus on rapid delivery. JD.com plans to leverage its logistics infrastructure to provide same-day and next-day delivery services in major cities. Orders placed earlier in the day may arrive within hours, giving the platform a competitive advantage in markets where delivery speed is increasingly critical to consumer choice.

The company has invested heavily in logistics infrastructure across Europe, including dozens of warehouses and distribution centers that support its proprietary delivery network. This integrated supply chain approach has long been a defining feature of JD.com’s operations in China and is expected to play a central role in its European strategy.

Competing in Europe’s Crowded E-Commerce Market

Europe represents one of the most developed and competitive e-commerce markets globally. Amazon currently dominates much of the region’s online retail sector, while Chinese platforms such as Temu and Shein have also been expanding aggressively across Western markets.

JD.com hopes its combination of competitive pricing, global brands and fast delivery will help the company attract European consumers looking for alternatives to existing platforms.

Industry analysts note that the move could intensify competition in the region, particularly as global e-commerce companies continue to expand logistics networks and cross-border marketplaces.

A Long-Term Bet on Overseas Growth

The Joybuy launch represents JD.com’s largest overseas expansion initiative so far and highlights the company’s long-term strategy to reduce reliance on China’s domestic market.

If successful, the platform could become a major new channel for international brands while also giving Chinese merchants broader access to European consumers.

Source: Business Standard

WORLDEF PRIME Matchmaking Summit Brings Together Global Leaders of E-Commerce in Antalya

Leading figures of the global e-commerce sector are preparing to come together at the WORLDEF PRIME Matchmaking Summit to be held in Antalya.

The WORLDEF PRIME Matchmaking Summit will take place on October 19–21, 2026 at the Kremlin Palace in Antalya. The event will bring together decision-makers, investors, and technology leaders of the global e-commerce ecosystem on the same platform.

Within the scope of the organization, industry representatives from 82 different countries are expected to gather in Antalya. The event will offer an important platform for the development of international collaborations and the evaluation of new trade opportunities.

What Does the WORLDEF PRIME Matchmaking Summit Promise?

The WORLDEF PRIME Matchmaking Summit aims to be a strategic meeting point especially for companies that want to grow on a global scale. Participants will have the opportunity to establish business connections that can help them expand into new markets throughout the event.

High-level business meetings to be organized within the program will lay the groundwork for the establishment of new partnerships between companies. Representatives of companies operating in e-commerce, logistics, payment systems, technology, and digital trade will be able to establish direct contact during the event.

Networking and Business Opportunities Together

The organization, which will last for three days and two nights, aims to go beyond being an event consisting only of panels and meetings. The program designed for participants will offer an environment that allows real business opportunities to be evaluated.

One of the most remarkable parts of the event will be the special gala night to be held under the stars. In this networking-focused event, participants will have the opportunity to communicate more closely with industry professionals from different countries. A live concert will also be organized as part of the program.

The Future of the E-Commerce World Will Be Discussed

The WORLDEF PRIME Matchmaking Summit is expected to contribute to the formation of new collaborations and strategic partnerships regarding the future of the global e-commerce sector. The summit, where industry leaders will come together, will be an important meeting point for expanding international trade networks and strengthening the digital trade ecosystem.

OpenAI Defers Its Plan for Direct Shopping via ChatGPT

OpenAI is making a significant strategic shift at a time when AI-powered shopping experiences are increasingly being discussed. The company has temporarily suspended the system that would enable direct payments through ChatGPT. Instead, it is reported that the company is focusing on a model that redirects users to brands’ or retailers’ own platforms.

Despite the rapid emergence of the AI-mediated shopping model known as “agentic commerce” in the technology world, OpenAI is said to be reassessing its plans in this area.

ChatGPT Will Remain a Discovery Tool

Rather than launching the integrated payment system planned for ChatGPT, OpenAI prefers to position artificial intelligence as a product search and recommendation engine. In this model, users will be able to discover products through ChatGPT, but they will complete the purchase process through the brands’ or e-commerce platforms’ own applications.

The “Instant Checkout” feature that the company tested last year was developed particularly for Etsy and Shopify sellers. However, it is stated that the system did not attract the expected interest and was used by only a limited number of merchants in the United States.

User Habits Became a Barrier at the Purchase Stage

Studies analyzing user behavior by OpenAI show that the product research and comparison phase within ChatGPT is quite active. However, it has emerged that users are more cautious about completing the purchase process within the AI interface.

A study published by Adobe also presents a similar picture. According to the report, 70 percent of consumers are comfortable with artificial intelligence assisting in shopping processes. However, only 13 percent of respondents trust AI tools to complete purchases on their behalf.

Collaboration Between OpenAI and Stripe Continues

It is reported that OpenAI has not completely abandoned payment processes, but plans to carry out these transactions through different systems rather than within its own platform. Through the infrastructure called the Agentic Commerce Protocol, which the company developed together with Stripe, transactions are expected to be carried out more smoothly. This approach may also open the door for OpenAI to move toward different areas within its revenue model. In particular, advertising and sponsorship-based revenue models built around product discovery and recommendation processes are expected to come to the forefront.

Competition in AI-Powered Commerce Is Intensifying

Competition in the field of AI-based commerce is steadily increasing. While Google is working on a new infrastructure aimed at standardizing e-commerce data on a global scale, Meta is also testing AI-powered shopping features within its social media platforms.

According to experts, although AI-powered shopping technologies are developing rapidly, it will take time for consumer habits to adapt to this transformation. For this reason, the sector is expected to shift toward hybrid models in the short term that strengthen product discovery and decision-making processes, rather than enabling direct purchases through artificial intelligence.

WORLDEF DUBAI 2026 opened its doors: 18 thousand participants from 80 countries met in Dubai for e-commerce!

WORLDEF DUBAI 2026, led by the international e-commerce platform WORLDEF, started with a magnificent ceremony. Recognized as the largest e-commerce event in the MENA region, WORLDEF DUBAI brings together more than 18,000 visitors and participants from over 80 countries between February 12–14. His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) National Olympic Committee said, that digital trade has become a strategic pillar of the UAE’s economic development and a vital driver of Dubai’s global competitiveness.

Omar Nart, CEO of WORLDEF said, “The Dubai Economic Agenda D33 has a clear vision; to grow Dubai’s economy, to become a leader in global digital trade, and to connect markets, talent, and innovation. WORLDEF is part of this vision.”

WORLDEF DUBAI 2027

WORLDEF DUBAI 2026, the largest e-commerce gathering of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, opened its doors. Organized in cooperation with Dubai CommerCity, the region’s first and leading digital trade-focused free zone, the event brought together many companies and initiatives ranging from e-commerce marketplaces to logistics companies, from artificial intelligence startups to sellers. Held for the second time this year, the event is being organized at the Dubai CommerCity campus under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ).

WORLDEF DUBAI 2026 was organized in cooperation between Dubai CommerCity, a joint venture of DIEZ and Wasl Properties, and WORLDEF, the international platform focused on supporting the global growth and expansion of cross-border e-commerce and digital trade companies. Bringing together more than 18,000 participants from over eighty countries, the event aims to create commercial opportunities, strengthen strategic partnerships, encourage knowledge sharing, and advance sustainable growth in the global digital economy.

An opening ceremony was held on the event’s main stage “Future Commerce” for WORLDEF DUBAI 2026. The opening ceremony was also attended by His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade; His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ; Her Excellency Amna Lootah, Director-General of Dubai CommerCity and Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ); Omar Nart, Chief Executive Officer of WORLDEF; and several Ambassadors, Consuls General and representatives from government entities and leading international digital commerce companies.

Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed: Strategic initiatives announced at WORLDEF DUBAI reflect Dubai’s firm commitment

His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed stated that the strategic initiatives announced within the scope of WORLDEF DUBAI 2026 reflect Dubai’s firm commitment to developing a future-ready, digitally enabled economic model through artificial intelligence, advanced technologies, strengthened international partnerships, and an integrated innovation ecosystem that enables businesses to grow confidently in regional and global markets.

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi: The UAE has established a leading position in e-commerce

Speaking at the opening of the forum, His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trad,e stated that Dubai has strengthened its position as a global trade, innovation, and digital commerce hub. HE Zeyoudi expressed that the city’s role will become even more important in today’s transforming global economy, and stated that the UAE is progressing towards developing a digital, data-driven, and globally integrated economy and has established a leading position in e-commerce in this direction.

Emphasizing that the UAE sees e-commerce as a fundamental pillar of the global trade system, HE Zeyoudi stated that efforts are ongoing to establish a network of digital trade corridors that seamlessly facilitate the flow of goods, services, and data between countries.

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni: WORLDEF DUBAI directly supports D33

His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, stated that hosting WORLDEF DUBAI is an indication of Dubai’s forward-looking vision and its commitment to promoting cooperation and advancing digital trade. He stated that the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 provides a strategic framework to strengthen global connectivity, enhance international competitiveness, and position Dubai among the world’s leading city economies.

He emphasized that the forum directly supports this agenda by enabling companies to grow internationally through world-class digital capabilities and integrated trade infrastructure. HE Dr. Al Zarooni also stated that the discussions at the forum revealed the accelerating impact of artificial intelligence, fintech, advanced logistics, and next-generation payment solutions in reshaping global trade ecosystems and strengthening market connectivity.

Omar Nart: WORLDEF is part of the D33 vision

Omar Nart, CEO of WORLDEF said, “WORLDEF DUBAI is not only an event; it is a meeting point of ideas, people, and futures. Digital trade is changing the world. It is no longer the future, it is today itself. Trade is now digital, growth is now cross-border, and success requires cooperation. Dubai understands this reality. We are proud to organize this event in close cooperation with our main strategic partner Dubai CommerCity. This forum is aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. D33 has a clear vision; to grow Dubai’s economy, to become a leader in global digital trade, and to connect markets, talent, and innovation. WORLDEF is part of this vision.”

Emphasizing that the future of digital trade will be discussed at WORLDEF DUBAI, Nart stated: “At the forum, we will address policy, logistics, e-commerce, payments, artificial intelligence, and trust. We are bringing together leaders from government, business, and technology. People from more than 80 countries are here. This shows a simple truth: The digital economy has no borders. The participation of leading companies specialized in e-commerce and related logistics sectors has enabled strategic discussions to take place throughout the forum. It has contributed to shaping the future direction of these sectors and identifying emerging opportunities.”

Nart emphasized that a “Startup Zone” was opened for the first time at WORLDEF this year and that more than 50 startups were brought together in this area, stating, “These startups are global by design. They bring new ideas, new energy, and new solutions. We also have country and ecosystem pavilions. These bring together markets, institutions, and companies. At the same time, we are launching the WORLDEF Growth Network (WGN). This is not just a community, it is a long-term platform. A platform that connects people.”

Omar Nart stated, “I am pleased to announce that WORLDEF DUBAI 2027 is already being planned. Next year we will be bigger, stronger, and even more global.”

The announcement of the UAE’s first Applied Artificial Intelligence Innovation Center was made

Within the scope of the event, the establishment of the UAE’s first Applied Artificial Intelligence Innovation Center within Dubai CommerCity was also announced by the IIT Madras Global Research Foundation, which facilitates market access and investment opportunities for ventures across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The center aims to position Dubai as a regional and global launch hub for applied artificial intelligence innovation by establishing a structure where solutions are developed, implemented, and scaled through a long-term platform focused on sustainable innovation and value creation.

At the event, the launch of the economic research report published by Dubai CommerCity was also held, which addresses the transition from traditional trade models to integrated, technology-based digital trade ecosystems supported by e-commerce, digital payments, smart logistics, fintech innovation, and data-driven cross-border services. The report addresses the development of secure digital trade corridors that strengthen regional and global economic integration through the establishment of digital trade corridors, the integration of digital infrastructure, and the establishment of reliable frameworks that will facilitate seamless cross-border transactions.

In addition to these, the launch of the joint initiative between Dubai CommerCity and Dubai Customs was also held, which aims to strengthen cooperation in digital trade and support the development of an integrated business environment that facilitates trade flows and increases the efficiency of Dubai’s trade ecosystem.

WORLDEF DUBAI 2027

AI-Powered E-Commerce: Meta’s Move into Agentic Commerce

Meta is preparing to revolutionize online shopping through AI-powered shopping agents, a concept it refers to as “agentic commerce.” With significant investments in AI tools, the company aims to enhance user experiences and increase advertising revenue.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stated that the company’s focus is shifting towards “agentic commerce.” Zuckerberg explained that this new approach would offer AI-powered shopping agents that help users find the right products based on their personal preferences and behaviors. These personalized AI agents will analyze Meta’s extensive user data, including past interactions, preferences, and social connections, to provide tailored product recommendations for each user.

Zuckerberg mentioned that Meta had rebuilt its AI infrastructure over the past year and would begin rolling out new models and products in the coming months. In his statement to investors, he said, “This year will be a big year for delivering personal superintelligence.” The company aims to go beyond traditional static product listings and search bars, with AI offering instant, personalized product recommendations for users.

Meta’s Strategy in the Competitive AI Shopping Space

Meta’s vision for AI-powered commerce is taking shape at a time when “agentic commerce” is gaining increasing attention in the tech world. OpenAI and Google have already introduced AI-powered shopping agents. OpenAI is enhancing shopping experiences with GPT-4, while Google has started integrating AI tools into its Search and Shopping platforms. Meta believes it has a unique advantage due to its access to vast user data, which enables the creation of even more personalized AI assistants.

In December 2025, Meta strengthened its position in this space by acquiring Manus, an AI agency developer. By integrating Manus technology, Meta plans to create shopping agents that interact with users across multiple platforms and ultimately transform product discovery into shopping.

Key Insights for Marketers About Meta’s AI Investment

Meta’s move toward “agentic commerce” raises important questions for marketers. As AI-powered shopping experiences gain momentum, brands may need to adjust their approach to advertising and product promotions on Meta platforms.

New shopping formats: Marketers should be prepared for new AI-powered shopping formats and adapt their product feeds and creative strategies to align with new conversational interfaces.
More granular ad targeting: With AI agents utilizing personal data, ads will become more contextual and tailored to real-time preferences. Brands may need to explore how to provide relevant data or signals to these agents.
AI-oowered product discovery: Just as SEO adapted to algorithmic curation, commerce brands may need to develop new strategies for AI-first product discovery.
Testing AI-driven tools: Meta plans to invest $135 billion in AI-related capital expenditures. Marketers should quickly test AI tools integrated with Meta’s Shops, Business Suite, and advertising platforms to understand how these tools work.

Meta’s focus on agentic commerce and AI-powered shopping tools promises to revolutionize e-commerce. This new personalized shopping experience will provide users with a more efficient shopping process while creating new opportunities and challenges for marketers in the digital world.

Agentic Commerce: The Future of AI Shopping

Sahibinden.com Integrates AI Technologies Under “sahiAI”; Natural Language Search Feature Introduced!

Türkiye’s leading classifieds, second-hand, and e-commerce marketplace, Sahibinden.com, has combined all of its AI-based products developed over eight years in its R&D center under the “sahiAI” brand. With sahiAI, a search feature has been developed that allows users to find listings in seconds using daily conversational language. This new feature is part of the AI advancements the company has gathered under the sahiAI brand.

Natural Language Search Now Available!

This innovation allows users to search for properties and vehicles using everyday expressions instead of complex filters. For example, users can now search using phrases like “apartment near the metro with a master bathroom” or “fuel-efficient, hybrid, white SUV.”

Previously, users had to select a series of filters to narrow down their searches, which was a time-consuming and complex process. However, with this new feature, the platform understands the user’s intent, significantly simplifying the process. The system does not just match words; it uses large language models in the background to understand the user’s intent, providing an experience similar to conversing with a real estate agent or car dealer.

“We Established the sahiAI Department with Over 300 Turkish Engineers”

Sahibinden.com CEO Burak Ertaş emphasized that this new technology was not sourced from external packages but was developed entirely in-house. Ertaş pointed out that the company made significant investments in research and development, establishing the sahiAI department with more than 300 Turkish engineers. He also highlighted that this local approach ensures the technology is more suitable for local needs and nuances, offering a more effective solution for Turkish users.

Ertaş stated, “AI is on everyone’s agenda, but there are not many companies that widely offer it in their products and services. Since our establishment, we have achieved many firsts. In 2000, we took the classifieds industry digital, and in 2011, we launched the first mobile app in our sector. While no one in Türkiye was talking about AI, we made it our company focus in 2018. Today, we are proud to bring all the AI products we have developed over the last eight years, which our users experience every day, under our umbrella brand, sahiAI.”

The Foundations of sahiAI Were Laid in 2018!

sahiAI is not just a search feature but the umbrella brand for a wide range of AI-based products, from visual recognition to natural language processing. The sahiAI product range was first established in 2018 with “Vehicle Recognition from Photos” and has since expanded to include products like Fotobot, which enhances the quality of listing images, Virtual Tour, which allows users to navigate through homes in 3D, and SahiDeko, which changes the decoration of a home in seconds. Now, with the addition of the AI-powered listing search feature, sahiAI offers an unparalleled experience to all users, developed entirely by Turkish engineers within Sahibinden.com.

As AI continues to shape the future of e-commerce and digital services, Sahibinden.com’s integration of natural language search positions the platform as a forward-thinking leader in the Turkish online marketplace.

sahibinden.com: “Every Listing is the First Step of a Dream”