A new report from global fintech firm Adyen reveals that 70% of UAE consumers now use (artificial intelligence) AI shopping, a sharp 44% increase year-on-year.
The UAE is leading the global shift toward AI-assisted retail, with 21% of shoppers using the technology for the first time in the past year and 62% open to adopting it in future purchases.
Millennials (aged 28–43) are the most active AI users (75%), while Generation X (44–59) showed the fastest growth, with usage rising 49% to reach 59%.
“We’re likely entering an era where AI acts as our personal stylist,” said Roelant Prins, Chief Commercial Officer at Adyen. “Consumers are embracing AI at an unprecedented rate.”
Retailers Respond to the AI Shopping Boom
UAE retailers are responding to rising demand for AI-driven experiences:
- 41% plan to invest in AI for sales and marketing
- 37% aim to use AI for product innovation
- 59% already offer unified commerce, blending online and offline experiences
- 56% of consumers shop via social media platforms
Despite the digital boom of AI shopping, 34% of UAE shoppers still prefer physical stores, driven by the desire to see and try products before purchase.
Adyen, listed on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, provides payment services to global brands including Meta, Uber, H&M, and Microsoft.
