Dubai's soaring consumer confidence woos global retailers

Consumer confidence in Dubai is at rise at a time when global economy is reeling under fears of recession and downturn. Global retailers are looking to invest in the Gulf market in order to maintain good economic numbers. Limited Brands and American Eagle Outfitters are among global retailers that said to be looking forward for taking advantage of growing Dubai market where consumer confidence has surged to a seven-year high.

Rivoli Group, which sells watches from brands including Tissot, Burberry, Gucci and Cartier made good profit due to strong customer's sentiments. US retailers have traditionally been reluctant to invest in Gulf markets but the trend has changed now following recessionary pressure in the popular markets.

Sheeraz Hasan, founder 'Millions of Milkshakes,' told, "There are more people in the malls here in Dubai than anywhere else in the world. We wanted to show the West that Dubai is the place to be."

United Arab Emirates, the second-biggest Arab economy, is experiencing consumer confidence of 95.6, beating markets of growing economies such as India and China according to MasterCard Worldwide Index of Consumer Confidence released Aug. 18.