The UAE is currently witnessing fierce competition among major retail outlets, offering discounts of up to 52% on a wide range of electrical appliances, home goods, and mobile phones. According to officials, these current discount rates are among the highest of the year, if not the highest, and cover a diverse selection of goods and models, including 2025 models. The discounts are implemented through collaboration and coordination among major suppliers, agents, and producers. A retail sector expert, Devi Nagpal, advises consumers to conduct detailed comparisons between different physical stores and online platforms before making a purchase to take advantage of the best available offers. Nagpal explains that the intense competition from online platforms, which have launched strong discounts on electrical and home appliances, is a primary reason for these massive price cuts. This is compounded by a decline in sales at some traditional outlets recently, as a large segment of consumers has shifted to online shopping due to lower prices. High operational costs, including rent, employee wages, and storage expenses, also play a role. Furthermore, Nagpal highlights that differences in warranty terms and the guaranteeing entity are a point consumers may not pay enough attention to, despite their importance, as poor warranty or service can lead to financial loss. Consumers report that the current market competition allows for greater freedom of choice, with many stores offering simultaneous discounts on multiple brands of the same product. For instance, prices for air fryers from various brands have dropped by 30% to 52%, while discounts on vacuum cleaners reached 40%. Some stores also offered significant discounts on modern TVs, including those with AI technology, with prices falling by up to 34.6%, providing consumers with multiple options based on their budget and preferences.
