Gulf shoppers expect cards, Apple Pay, cash on delivery and buy-now-pay-later. In the UAE, offer cards, Apple Pay, COD and Tabby or Tamara. In Saudi Arabia, also add Mada cards. Offering the right mix can noticeably increase conversion, because many shoppers abandon checkout when their preferred method is missing.
1. Payment methods Gulf shoppers expect
| Method | UAE | Saudi Arabia | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa / Mastercard | Essential | Essential | Always offer |
| Apple Pay / Google Pay | Highly recommended | Highly recommended | Fast mobile checkout |
| Mada | – | Essential | Saudi national debit network |
| Tabby | Popular | Popular | Buy now, pay later in instalments |
| Tamara | Popular | Popular | Buy now, pay later in instalments |
| Cash on delivery (COD) | Common | Common | Builds trust for new brands |
2. Choosing a payment gateway
Shopify works with several payment providers in the Gulf. Availability changes over time, so always check Shopify’s current list for your country. Common options include regional gateways such as Checkout.com, Tap Payments, PayTabs and Telr, plus Tabby and Tamara as separate buy-now-pay-later apps.
3. Should you offer cash on delivery?
For new brands, yes. Cash on delivery lowers the trust barrier for first-time buyers. To reduce failed deliveries:
- Confirm orders by WhatsApp or SMS before shipping.
- Offer a small discount for card payment.
- Limit COD on very high-value orders.
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4. Tabby and Tamara: are they worth it?
Buy-now-pay-later lets customers split payments into instalments. Merchants usually pay a higher fee per order than with cards, but BNPL often increases average order value and conversion, especially for fashion, electronics and beauty.
5. How to set up payments on Shopify (step by step)
- Choose a gateway available in your country and open a merchant account in your business name.
- Install the gateway or BNPL app from the Shopify App Store and enter your credentials.
- Enable Apple Pay and Google Pay where supported.
- Turn on cash on delivery under manual payment methods.
- Show VAT correctly – 5% in the UAE and 15% in Saudi Arabia.
- Place test orders with every method before launch.
6. Don’t forget Arabic and trust signals
A bilingual Arabic/English checkout, clear delivery times and visible return policies make a big difference in the Gulf. Payment logos near the Add to Cart button also increase trust.
Frequently asked questions
Is Shopify Payments available in the UAE?
Availability changes, so check Shopify’s settings for your store. If it isn’t available, regional gateways such as Checkout.com, Tap, PayTabs or Telr can be used.
How do I add Mada to Shopify?
Use a Saudi-supported gateway that offers Mada, such as Tap, Checkout.com or PayTabs, and enable Mada in its settings.
Can I offer Tabby and Tamara together?
Yes. Many Gulf stores offer both, so customers can choose their preferred instalment provider.
Should I offer cash on delivery?
For new brands, yes – it builds trust. Confirm orders by WhatsApp and encourage card payments to reduce failed deliveries.
What VAT applies in the UAE and Saudi Arabia?
VAT is 5% in the UAE and 15% in Saudi Arabia. Your store should calculate and display it correctly.
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Anees has spent 10+ years building online stores. His team of 16 has delivered 3,400+ Shopify, WooCommerce and business websites for brands in Mauritius, the Gulf, Europe, Canada and South Asia.