Checkout.com has revealed key insights in its fifth annual report on digital commerce across the Middle East and North Africa. The report, The State of Digital Commerce in MENA 2025 – Trends That Matter, highlights the region’s shift toward digital payments and e-commerce.

According to the report, the MENA region continues to rank among the most advanced globally in technology adoption and consumer appetite for digital solutions. Emerging technologies are accelerating economic transformation in the region.

Over the past five years, daily online transactions have increased by 139%. Checkout.com reported a 626% surge in total processing volumes in MENA since 2020. Year-on-year growth stands at 78%.

This growth reflects changing consumer behaviour. Digital platforms are now the default choice for many.

Consumers are increasingly using digital platforms for daily purchases. The UAE has seen a 388% year-on-year growth in Account Funding Transactions (AFTs), reflecting a sharp shift toward real-time payouts.

Checkout.com noted that 61% of MENA consumers plan to increase online shopping next year. Sectors expected to benefit include travel, food delivery, and retail, along with government and public services.

Cash-on-delivery usage has dropped by 60% since 2020. This shows a clear move toward digital convenience.

Remo Giovanni Abbondandolo, General Manager, MENA at Checkout.com, reported that MENA is not just keeping up—it is leading global digital commerce trends.

The report also revealed strong fintech adoption. About 43% of consumers in the region use apps or digital wallets to send money weekly. Meanwhile, 62% are using fintech platforms for investment and wealth management.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping shopping habits.

AI features like virtual try-ons and intelligent chatbots are becoming common. MENA consumers are more likely to engage with these tools than shoppers elsewhere.

In-store shopping is also evolving. About 37% of MENA consumers check online for better deals while browsing in physical stores. Retailers are responding by integrating digital tools like QR codes and augmented reality.

Trust in digital commerce now depends on peer reviews and social proof. Consumers rely on third-party feedback as much as brand reputation.

However, online fraud remains a growing concern. Since 2023, reported victims of online fraud in MENA have increased from 33% to 49%.

Checkout.com stated that advanced security measures such as machine learning, real-time detection, and behavioural biometrics are helping to counter these threats.

Abbondandolo emphasized that payment performance now plays a critical role in customer experience and business success.

The company has been tracking e-commerce trends in MENA for five years. The latest report offers a detailed analysis of the region’s 60-month digital transformation.