UAE payments firm launches new e-commerce platform

Network International, the UAE-based payment solutions provider in the Middle East and Africa, has announced the launch of Go-Online, a new e-commerce platform targeted at local small, medium and start-up businesses.

Network International said its partnership with a leading global e-commerce player, Shopmatic, lends it a "significant first mover advantage" in the e-commerce space.

UAE merchants using Go-Online can create their own web store and start selling their products, a statement said, adding that Go-Online offers 60+ ready-made design templates that allow simple product uploads and edits.

Samer Soliman, managing director - Middle East, Network International, said: “As part of our commitment to enable commerce in the region, our aim is to enhance the e-commerce ecosystem by offering potential entrepreneurs a ready world-class platform with an integrated payment gateway.

"Go-Online will hasten go-to-market for smaller e-commerce entrants, enhance customer acquisition and instil confidence in shoppers looking to purchase online. We believe our efforts are aligned to the vision of the UAE government as we lend support to the SME sector, the backbone of our economy.”

According to industry analysts Frost & Sullivan, e-commerce is a megatrend for businesses in the UAE, valued close to $10 billion.

As smartphone penetration rates in the nation continue to rise, e-commerce and mobile-commerce are tipped to grow further with online shoppers now representing 62 per cent of the UAE’s population.

Anurag Avula, CEO of Shopmatic, said: “The partnership with Network International is a significant step in enabling digital commerce for the growing ecommerce markets of the Middle East and Africa. This marks the entry of Shopmatic in one of the most exciting emerging ecommerce markets and continues to cement our commitment to supporting SMEs and entrepreneurs in their online commerce journey.”