Buying something online used to mean opening multiple tabs, reading dozens of reviews, and comparing prices across different websites. Today, many people are taking a shorter route. A new Visa study shows that a large majority of UAE shoppers are now using technology-powered assistants to help them make buying decisions. From finding products to comparing options, these digital helpers are becoming part of the online shopping experience.
Most people do not enjoy spending hours searching for the right product. Whether someone is buying a phone, a pair of shoes, or household items, they want useful suggestions and quick answers. That is one reason more shoppers are turning to these services. Instead of scrolling through endless choices, they can narrow down options much faster and focus on products that match what they are looking for.
As per the study, only 32 percent would trust AI agents to complete checkout. Buying products on social media has also increased. Around 69 percent of UAE consumers are purchasing directly through social media platforms.
The results imply that young individuals are at the forefront of this trend, but they are not alone. With an increase in the popularity of online shopping, consumers are getting used to interacting with virtual assistants when shopping online. What was once something new is gradually becoming familiar to people. It is just one more tool for making their purchases easier.
Companies are also taking note of the shift. Web-based retailers are focusing on offering improved customer service, intelligent recommendations for products, and an enhanced customer experience. The objective for these businesses is to facilitate the purchase of goods for the consumer while making the process simple.
“As commerce moves toward more AI-powered and agentic experiences, consumers are embracing the convenience AI can bring to shopping but remain sceptical about AI completing purchases on their behalf,” Dibyajyoti Sen, Head of Risk at GCC Visa, said.
Online shopping is always changing, and consumer habits are changing with it. People still compare prices, read reviews, and look for the best deals. The difference is that many now have an extra helping hand along the way. The Visa study suggests that this shift is already well underway in the UAE. For a growing number of shoppers, getting advice from technology before clicking "buy" is becoming just another part of the process.