Abbas A. Fairouz, Assistant Professor at Kuwait University, discusses Kuwait’s ICT sector, digital transformation in industries, and future developments and trends.

Retailers across the Middle East look forward to busy shopping periods such as Ramadan and Eid with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. Although welcomed, the sudden uptick in volume demands, combined with the introduction of seasonal goods and changes in many employee working hours, often test the flexibility of retailers’ supply chains.

Aladdin Reward Coins can be redeemed for discounts on the Aladdin Reward shop, which now offers a diverse selection of consumer electronics from hundreds of brands and stores. In contrast to other reward programmes, where 100 loyalty points often translate to AED 1 upon redemption, Aladdin offers an AED 1 discount for every Coin.

RouteQ recently expanded its footprint in the Middle East by opening an office in Dubai to assist regional businesses with their delivery difficulties. Using its extensive experience with globally famous companies such as X5 Group, Unilever, Coca-Cola HBC, Carlsberg Group, and Russian Post, the business has already begun piloting projects for customers in the region’s retail, e-commerce, and courier sectors.

“Shoppers were eager to secure their gifts ahead of the retail rush, with conversations surrounding supply chain and labor supply issues sending consumers online and to stores in droves. Consumers splurged throughout the season, with apparel and department stores experiencing strong growth as shoppers sought to put their best-dressed foot forward,” said Steve Sadove, senior advisor for Mastercard.