Market Trends of Middle East Smart Home Industry
United Arab Emirates in Experiencing Significant Demand
- The smart home market in the United Arab Emirates is undergoing a remarkable evolution, marked by rapid growth and dynamic trends. Driven by increasing internet penetration, rising consumer demand for connected devices, and disposable income, the UAE's smart home market is becoming one of the most advanced in the Middle East. One of the key factors propelling the growth is the widespread internet and smartphone penetration rates in the region, which facilitates the seamless integration of smart home devices.
- According to data published by Worldbank, 100% of UAE's population is equipped with an internet connection and more than 18 million active mobile subscription based on data provided by Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (UAE). This connectivity allows homeowners to control and monitor their home devices remotely through smartphones and other devices, enhancing convenience and security.
- The increasing adoption of 5g further amplies this trends, providing faster and more reliable connection. According to a survey conducted by Ericsson, 57 percent of users in UAE are very happy with their 5G network performance, which is among the highest shares globally. According to data published by DataReportal, 96.3% of the internet uses in UAE owned a smarphone, 37.4 % of the internet users owned a tablet, and 12.5% owned a Smart Home Device, as per survey conducted in 3rd quarter of 2023.
- The local ecosystem is also booming with domestic players stepping up for proving smart home solutions with collaborations with international players. For instance, in April 2024, Aqara, a leading provider of smart home solutions, announced a collaboration with e&UAE, the telecom arm of e&. This partnership introduces a wide range of Aqara devices to the local market, including smart home hubs, sensors, light switches, retrofit roller shade controllers, and wireless switches.
- Additionally, a Starter Kit is available for those seeking a comprehensive smart home experience. To simplify adoption, a hassle-free installation service is included with the bundle, allowing more consumers to enjoy the benefits of smart home technology without the complexity. This collaboration represents a significant step towards making smart living accessible and convenient for UAE residents, aligning with the shared vision of advancing the digital future for homes. Looking ahead, Aqara and e&UAE are excited to expand their partnership to include new and innovative products, solutions, and smart home platforms for enhanced experiences.
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Comfort and Lighting Segment is Experiencing Strong Demand
- Comfort and Lighting segment is experiencing is driven by increasing consumer demand for convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced living environments. As disposable incomes rise, there is a growing appretite for smart home solutions that can seamlessly integrate into daily life, offering both luxury and practical benefits.
- Due to the regions extreme climatic conditions, smart climate control systems are becoming essential. These systems enable precise regulation of indoor temperatures, reducing energy consumption and costs while maintaining optimal comfort. For instance, smart thermostats and air conditioning units that can be controlled remotely. Smart lighting solutions is also witnessing robust growth with consumers that are drawn to flexibility and energy efficiency. These systems allows users to customize lighting settings to match their moods, activities, or the time of the day, contributing to both the aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency.
- For instance, in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the integration of smart AI assistants like Alexa into homes has surged, with six million devices enhancing daily routines. Lighting, air conditioning, TVs, and cameras are among the most popular categories controlled by Alexa, reflecting a shift towards voice-enabled home automation. In 2023, nearly 130 million smart home actions were initiated, accompanied by over 100 million requests for music, Quran, and podcasts. This growth is evidenced by a 50% year-on-year increase in smart home customers and a 90% increase in connected devices. Amazon's investment in local customization ensures Alexa caters to unique regional needs, fostering excitement for AI advancement.
- Saudi Arabia, which is one of the biggest and fast growing market in the Middle East has approximately 36.8 million internet users as of January 2024, based on data provided by DataReportal and Meltwater. In comparison, its population is approximately 37.4 million as of 2024, which showcases the country's huge internet penetration rate. Similar characteristics is demonstrated by other neighbouring Middle Eastern countries, painting a positive picture for the growth of market.
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