SAO PAULO – A survey by multinational financial services company Visa found that 85% of consumers in the United Arab Emirates already use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist with their shopping, according to a report published by state news agency WAM on Tuesday (9th). The study found that AI is being used to rate products, read reviews, compare prices, find gift ideas, and more.
The annual Stay Secure survey assesses consumer knowledge and behavior regarding digital commerce and fraud prevention. This year’s edition, conducted by Wakefield Research, focuses on the impact of artificial intelligence on consumers, among other topics.
The study found that the increased use of digital tools reflects consumer confidence in the benefits of modern technology. In the survey, 93% of respondents said they believe new technology, including AI-powered features, will make online shopping faster and easier. They also believe that artificial intelligence is influencing product and brand discovery, with 60% of consumers saying they discover new brands and retailers while shopping online.
Despite this, respondents said they remain wary of AI executing transactions on their behalf. Only 32% said they would trust an AI agent to complete a payment. But they see AI as a tool to fight fraud. 57% say it helps consumers recognize fraud, and 85% believe it will play an important role in preventing fraud in the future.
The study also shows that 69% of UAE consumers purchase products directly through social media platforms. 46% reported experiencing financial fraud in the past 12 months. Among those affected, 38% said incidents occurred more frequently on social media than on other platforms such as websites, online marketplaces, and shopping apps.
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Translated by Guilherme Miranda
©Beata Zawrzel/Nurphoto (via AFP)
