How the UAE Gives You Access to Over 60 Million Ready-to-Spend Consumers Across the Gulf

If you're a European business eyeing growth in the Middle East, the UAE isn’t just a logical place to start - it’s where smart expansion begins. With world-class infrastructure, open investment policies, and a globally connected business environment, the UAE serves as the go-to base for accessing the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and the UAE itself.

Together, these six countries represent a $2 trillion+ economy and a consumer market of over 60 million people - young, tech-savvy, and increasingly global in their preferences. And it’s growing fast. Demand is rising across clean energy, healthcare, fintech, mobility, luxury retail, and tourism.

Vision-led national agendas like Saudi Vision 2030 and UAE Centennial 2071 are opening the door to foreign innovation across sectors.

But here’s what makes this region especially attractive: its consumers.

The Gulf is home to one of the youngest and wealthiest populations in the world. Over 50% are under 30, highly educated, digitally native, and eager to engage with global brands. Smartphone use and social media engagement are among the highest worldwide. This generation is driving demand for premium experiences, tech-first solutions, and culturally aligned offerings - from modest fashion and halal-certified products to sustainable design and smart finance.

With strong purchasing power and government-backed economic diversification, this is a consumer base that’s ready to spend - and loyal to brands that localize, listen, and adapt.

But success in the Gulf isn’t just about launching a product. It’s about understanding how business is done. Relationships, trust, and cultural fluency matter just as much as product-market fit.

That’s where the UAE gives you a real edge. It blends international business standards with deep regional insight. You’ll find:

• 100% foreign ownership in free zones

• Fast and easy company setup

• Low red tape and strong legal protections

• A global talent pool with multilingual skills

• English widely used in business

  
  

Think of the UAE as your cultural and commercial soft landing - a place to build partnerships, test offerings, and refine your strategy before scaling to more traditional markets like Saudi Arabia or Kuwait.

And it works. Just look at the companies leading the way:

• Siemens Healthineers (Germany) built Arabic-speaking teams in Dubai to serve hospitals across the GCC

• Signify (Netherlands) collaborated with local governments to light religious and heritage sites respectfully

• Adyen (Netherlands) tailored its fintech offering to local habits and partnered with regional brands

• Schneider Electric (France) aligned its sustainability message with Gulf government visions

• Zalando is testing modest fashion and digital campaigns with Gen Z shoppers in the UAE

These companies are doing more than entering a new market - they’re building relevance, trust, and lasting value.

If you're looking to grow in a region that combines high spending power, digital adoption, and government support, start with the UAE. It’s more than a launchpad - it’s your gateway, sandbox, and strategic base for long-term success in one of the world’s most exciting regions.

Culture isn’t a barrier here - it’s your smartest advantage. Use it.