Learn how to create strong, practical email marketing Dubai campaigns. Discover what works in the UAE market, with easy tips, real examples, and current trends
Introduction
Email might seem old-fashioned next to social media or influencer marketing, but in Dubai it still works better than most channels. If you run a business in the UAE, email is one of the easiest ways to reach real people, build trust, and boost sales. In this guide, you’ll learn how email marketing fits the Dubai market, what to avoid, and how to make your messages worth opening.
Why Email Still Matters in Dubai
Dubai is a fast-growing, tech-driven city where people use their phones for everything, including checking email several times a day. That makes it a great place to use email as part of your marketing.
Three main reasons it still works:
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You reach your audience directly without depending on algorithms.
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It’s one of the cheapest ways to stay in touch with customers.
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You can use it for almost anything: offers, updates, invites, or follow-ups.
Takeaway: Email gives you control and connection that social media can’t always guarantee.
What Makes Email Marketing Different in Dubai
A mixed audience
Dubai’s population is international, which means one message rarely fits everyone. Some people read English, others prefer Arabic, and many switch between both. If possible, write short, simple messages and offer both languages.
High mobile use
Most people open their emails on their phones. Keep your design simple with large text, one column, and easy-to-tap buttons. A slow-loading or cluttered message will be deleted fast.
Busy market
Competition is strong. Your emails must be short, useful, and clear. Focus on one goal per message, whether that’s a new product, event, or limited offer.
How to Run a Good Email Campaign in Dubai
1. Start with a clean list
Only email people who chose to hear from you. Add signup forms to your website, checkout page, or social media. Delete inactive contacts every few months to keep your list healthy.
2. Write clear subject lines
Your subject line is what makes people open the email. Make it short, honest, and direct. Example: “Dubai shoppers: your weekend offer is ready.” Avoid mystery phrases or all-caps shouting.
3. Personalize where possible
Use first names and mention things your customers care about, like Ramadan offers or UAE National Day sales. The more your message feels personal, the more likely people are to read it.
4. Send at the right time
Try sending in the early evening when many people finish work, or test different times to see what works best. Consistency helps. Start with one email per week and adjust based on results.
5. Track what happens
Check how many people open and click your emails. If open rates are low, change your subject lines. If few people click, improve your message or offer. Testing and improving makes every campaign stronger.
Trends to Watch in 2025
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More brands are using short, simple designs with fewer words and bigger visuals.
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Businesses are sending bilingual messages to connect with both local and expat readers.
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Some use AI tools to find the best time to send or to personalize offers for each person.
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Interactive buttons and short surveys are becoming common inside emails.
These trends all point to one thing: people want clear, personal, and easy-to-read messages.
Real Example
Imagine you own a clothing store in Dubai. You collect customer emails through your website and in-store signups. You send this email:
Subject: “Early access to our Dubai winter sale starts today.”
Message: A short note thanking customers for their loyalty, three pictures of top-selling outfits, a “Shop Now” button, and a small Arabic version at the bottom.
Follow-up: Two days later, a reminder email saying “Last chance to get up to 40% off.”
Simple, timely, and relevant. That’s what works.
FAQ
Is email marketing still effective in Dubai?
Yes. People in the UAE still read and respond to email, especially when it’s relevant and well-designed.
How often should I send emails?
Once every week or two is a good start. Focus on helpful, valuable content rather than volume.
Should I send emails in Arabic or English?
Use both if your audience includes locals and expats. Bilingual options increase engagement.
What’s a good open rate?
Around 20 to 25 percent is solid for most Dubai-based businesses. You can improve it with better subject lines and cleaner lists.
Conclusion
Email marketing in Dubai is not about sending as many messages as possible. It’s about reaching the right people with content they care about. Keep it simple, mobile-friendly, and personal.
Start small, track your results, and adjust as you go. With patience and testing, you’ll turn your emails into one of your most effective marketing tools.