May 1 begins with a new life for Souq.com as it has formally transitioned to become Amazon.ae starting today.
In a post from Twitter, Amazon has officially taken over the UAE’s online shopping giant as a culmination of more than two years and $500 million to acquire the platform. The localized version of Amazon is now up and running for online shoppers in the country.
Hello World. Your SOUQ is now https://t.co/2qqhfIqnP9
Download the app now and enjoy shopping.
Click here https://t.co/gpVLx1Ntx0 pic.twitter.com/yeA9VzGydI— Amazon AE (@souq) May 1, 2019
Netizens were initially surprised as their attempts to head to Souq.com had them redirected to Amazon.ae with a message on the former e-commerce website: “Amazon has launched in the UAE! Shop millions of your favorite products from your new local shopping destination.”
As with Souq.com ‘s previous platform, payments can be made with both local and international credit cards, as well as cash on delivery – something which is a new offering for Amazon.
The newly launched Amazon.ae promises over 30 million products, five million of which will come from Amazon US.
“Today marks a proud day for Souq and Amazon, a day that we have been working towards since the two companies came together in 2017,” said Souq Co-founder and Amazon MENA Vice President Ronaldo Mouchawar.
“Amazon.ae brings together Souq’s local know-how and Amazon’s global expertise, something we believe will be of significant benefit to UAE customers. Our combined team in the region has grown to over 3,600 employees, and each and every one of us is thrilled to invite UAE customers to join us on this journey, where we will continue to grow our product range, ensure great prices, and provide a convenient and safe shopping experience.”
Customers will have access to more than 30 million products from local and international businesses. These include products that were previously available on Souq and five million products from Amazon US.
