noon And Dubai DET Join Forces To Boost SME Growth
The initiative falls under the banner of the Dubai Traders program, which seeks to empower Dubai’s SMEs by helping them adopt innovative digital tools and channels to expand their reach both locally and globally.
noon, one of the MENA region's leading online marketplaces, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) have teamed up to introduce an e-commerce program aimed at accelerating the digital growth of SMEs based in Dubai.
The initiative falls under the banner of the Dubai Traders program, a core element of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which seeks to empower Dubai’s SMEs by helping them adopt innovative digital tools and channels to expand their reach both locally and globally.
In an interview with Inc. Arabia about this initiative, Raman Kumar, GM of Commercial at noon, said, “When we were invited to be part of this program, it was a no-brainer. noon was built to support local sellers and grow the region’s digital economy—and that’s exactly what this partnership with the Dubai DET does. The Dubai Traders Program isn’t just about getting businesses online; it’s about helping them thrive. We’re giving SMEs the tools, training, and visibility they need to scale quickly and sustainably. It’s also directly aligned with D33’s vision to make Dubai a global hub for digital commerce.”
Created to support local businesses in succeeding online, noon's collaboration with DET offers practical onboarding, expert-led training, and full access to the former's comprehensive e-commerce tools and logistics network. Sellers who join gain increased exposure through free advertising credits and prioritized product placement. Additionally, the initiative enhances quick-commerce features, ensuring faster delivery times and a more seamless experience for customers.
Raman Kumar, GM of Commercial at noon
Sellers are invited to also register through Mahali, noon’s specialized platform for Emirati-owned businesses, to benefit from additional personalized support. “It offers extra support designed specifically for local sellers, including reduced fees, dedicated account managers, personalized training, and tailored onboarding,” Kumar added, while highlighting the complementary nature of Mahali within the Dubai Traders Program for Emirati sellers in Dubai. “For Emirati sellers in Dubai, there’s a powerful overlap: they get the full benefits of Mahali and the added advantages of the Dubai Traders Program. It’s a win-win,” he said.
Kumar explained that the Dubai Traders Program has already delivered tangible results within a short time frame, with strong growth in both seller participation and sales. “In just nine months, seller participation has tripled, and sales are up 160 percent. Proof that with the right support, local businesses don’t just grow—they take off,” he said. He pointed to one particularly notable success story, Yashem, a rising oud fragrance brand. Since participating in the program, the company has seen its sales surge by 13.5 percent, highlighting how the Dubai Traders Program is driving significant growth for local entrepreneurs. “That’s real growth, driven by stronger visibility, smarter tools, and hands-on support,” Kumar emphasized.
He credited the program’s success to the vision and leadership of the Dubai DET. “Massive credit to the Dubai DET for launching such a bold, forward-thinking initiative—and for trusting noon to help bring it to life,” he said. As for the road ahead, Kumar shared noon’s commitment to the program's expansion. “Now, we’re focused on scaling it further: into more categories, with deeper support, so even more Dubai-based businesses can grow and succeed online,” he said.
SMEs looking to participate in this program can sign up here.
Pictured in the lead image is a scene from a noon warehouse. Image courtesy noon.
