United Arab Emirates (UAE) E-Pharmacy Market Overview, 2028

The UAE has one of the highest internet penetration rates in the world, with over 98% of the population having access to the internet. This has made it easier for people to shop online, including for medications. The market is anticipated to grow on account of the increasing number of incidences of chronic diseases and growing geriatric population in the country. Another factor contributing to the growth of the e-pharmacy market is the rising GDP per capita impacting the digital transformation in the pharmaceutical sector across the country. The rise in GDP per capita signifies the increased standard of living due to the rise in disposable incomes. Therefore, people are taking the help of online pharmacy stores for convenience buying, time-saving and on-time delivery of their medicines. Also a rise in awareness about the benefits offered by e-pharmacy is propelling the market growth in UAE. Affordable cost of set up initialization and mobile application based services like identification of the authenticity of the prescriptions, feasibility to order the pharmaceuticals and therapeutics through mobile apps would further aid the growth of UAE e-pharmacy. Furthermore, increasing government initiatives and growing investments in the healthcare industry for the advancement of the services and technology would substantiate the growth of the UAE e-pharmacy market. Surging demands for providing world-class healthcare services, therapeutic opportunities, is also aiding the growth of the UAE E-Pharmacy market in the forecast period. Moreover, increasing research and mobile app development along with the expanding distribution channels are also aiding market growth.

According to the research report "UAE E-Pharmacy Market Overview, 2028," published by Bonafide Research, the UAE e-pharmacy market was valued more than USD 550 Million in 2022. The growth of the market is increased due to factors such as developing healthcare services in the country through technological advancements. Furthermore, the surge in the demand for the pharmaceutical products in emergency cases in driving the growth of the UAE E-Pharmacy market in the upcoming time frame. Healthcare services through online platforms are expanding. Online consultations from the experts available across the country, growing demands for second opinions etc have supported the growth of the UAE e-pharmacy market during forecast period. Increasing instances of chronic diseases like cardiovascular diseases, neurological diseases, cancer, etc. are also responsible for the increasing demands for the pharmaceuticals on an emergency conditions also aids the growth of the UAE e-pharmacy market Increasing internet penetration, higher usage of internet of things, artificial intelligence in the pharmaceutical industry along with the rapidly growing sales of mobile phones further substantiate the growth of the UAE e-pharmacy market. E-commerce industry has been expanding. Recent pandemic situation boomed the industry’s growth exponentially. Complete lockdown situation, high risks of infection, and rapid increase in the mortality rate due to COVID-19 viral infection affected the economies all over the world. Groceries, daily essentials, along with pharmaceuticals, medical necessities, therapeutic products, online consultations with the doctors, and lack of physical visitation; such demands were efficiently being fulfilled through e-commerce services. Moreover, with the availability of the products on online portals, the demand for quick delivery, emergency responding delivery, and easier payment options gave more scope for the market to grow. E-pharmacy market in UAE also benefitted from it and it would further grow since efficiency of the delivery services, easier availability of the drugs & therapeutics, along with affordable costs of the drugs and subscription based discounts from the market players would support the growth of the market.

E-Pharmacies in the UAE need to obtain the necessary licenses from the relevant authorities to operate legally. These licenses are typically issued by the respective emirate's Health Authority, such as the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or the Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD). Furthermore, E-Pharmacies may be permitted to sell prescription medication online, but strict guidelines are in place to ensure patient safety. These guidelines usually include requirements for verifying prescriptions, maintaining proper records, and ensuring secure delivery of medications. The sale and dispensing of medication, including prescription drugs, are regulated by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP). E-Pharmacies must comply with guidelines related to prescription verification, record-keeping, and ensuring the safe and secure delivery of medications. In additions, E-Pharmacies are required to maintain the privacy and security of patient information and adhere to relevant data protection regulations. Measures such as encryption, secure servers, and strict access controls are typically expected to protect patient data.

Based on drug type, the market is segmented into prescription drug and Over-the-counter drug. The prescription factor is key and an important factor that is contributing to the market of E-Pharmacy in UAE. Prescription drugs often require consultation with a healthcare professional to determine the right medication and dosage based on an individual's medical history, condition, and other factors. The inclusion of prescriptions in the e-pharmacy model allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, enhancing access to care and professional guidance. In the UAE, prescription drugs are regulated more strictly than over-the-counter medications. To ensure patient safety, prescription drugs require a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. This regulatory framework ensures that patients receive appropriate medications and dosages, minimizing the risk of misuse or adverse effects. The UAE has a well-developed healthcare system with a strong emphasis on patient care. The system encourages patients to seek medical advice and obtain prescriptions from qualified healthcare providers. As a result, prescription drugs are an integral part of the healthcare system, and their availability through e-pharmacies aligns with the existing patient care model.

Startups:
• Noon Health: Noon Health is an e-pharmacy startup that offers a wide range of healthcare products and medications through its online platform. They provide door-to-door delivery services and prioritize customer convenience and affordability.
• Yodawy: Yodawy is an Egyptian startup that expanded its operations to the UAE. It offers an online platform that allows users to order medications and health products, as well as book lab tests and consult with healthcare professionals through telemedicine services.
• 800 Pharmacy: 800 Pharmacy is a Dubai-based e-pharmacy platform that offers a range of pharmaceutical products, wellness items, vitamins, and personal care products. They focus on delivering orders quickly and efficiently to customers across the UAE.
• Health at Hand: Health at Hand is a telemedicine platform that connects users with licensed doctors and healthcare professionals for online consultations. While not a traditional e-pharmacy, it provides prescription services, allowing patients to receive medications through their partnered pharmacies.
• Dawaee: Dawaee is an e-pharmacy platform that operates in the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries. They offer a wide range of medications, health and wellness products, and medical equipment. Users can conveniently order their prescriptions online and have them delivered to their doorstep.



Considered in this report
• Geography: UAE
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report
• UAE E-Pharmacy market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type
• Skin Care (Skin diseases & skin injuries)
• Allergy & food intolerance, Stomach, Intestines & Digestion
• Diabetes Care
• Heart care, circulation & veins, BP, cholstrol
• Orthopedic (muscles, bones, joints)
• Urology (Bladder, Kidney & Prostate)
• Animal pharmacy
• Naturopathy
• ENT (Eyes, ears, Tooth & Mouth)
• Cold flu
• vitamins & minerals
• Cosmetics
• Painkiller
• Others (gynec, Calm down, sleep & stress, sexuality, Lose weight, Diet & Lifestyle, Self-tests & everyday aids, smoking cessation)

By Drug Type
• Prescription drug
• Over-the-counter drug

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, and annual reports of companies, analyzing the government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers into regional aspects, tier aspects, age groups, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to the E-Pharmacy industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.