Gulf Marketing Group (GMG), one of the Middle East's leading holding companies, has revealed that this year’s Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) festival has been the most successful yet for its UAE retail outlets, recording double-digit sales growth over the same period in 2018.
The company’s retail outlets – which include brands such as Nike, Sun & Sand Sports, and Supercare Pharmacy, among many others – have collectively seen sales for the DSS period surpass their previous record set in 2014, citing strong support from Dubai’s retail ecosystem and particularly the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE).
The months-long celebration of entertainment and shopping aims to make the most of Dubai's bright summers with live concerts, fireworks and discounts throughout the city, running this year from June 12 – August 3.
“Dubai has long been known for its exceptional retail offerings. Initiatives like Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) contribute positively to that reputation, attracting the interest of both local residents and international visitors,” says Mohammad A. Baker, Deputy Chairman and CEO of GMG. “The extensive collaboration between DFRE and the private sector, complemented by the injection of new ideas and creative elements into DSS this year, were important factors in our results. With the start of Expo 2020 also on the horizon, we believe Dubai’s retail market is set for a continued uplift as one of the world’s most attractive tourist destinations.”
Today the UAE’s retail sector contributes significantly to the diversification of the nation’s economy. A recent report published by Alpen Capital further suggests that the UAE’s retail sector will experience continued growth in the coming years, more than other GCC countries, with a compound annual growth rate of 5.1% projected from 2018-2023[1].
[1] Alpen Capital GCC Retail Industry Report 2019