How Saudi-based SMEs Can Win Big This Ramadan and Eid

Ramadan and Eid represent one of the most intense e-commerce periods of the year for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating online in Saudi Arabia. Google-Visa research indicates that retail search activity in the Kingdom increases by approximately 13% during Ramadan, before accelerating sharply in the days leading up to Eid, when consumer spending climbs by nearly 30% in a single week.1

“Ramadan and Eid bring a surge in delivery volumes while customer expectations remain high. Shoppers expect clear updates and reassurance that their orders will arrive as promised, especially when gifts are involved,” said Abdulrahman Al-Mubarak, managing director operations at FedEx Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa. “For SMEs, early planning, realistic commitments, and seamless execution are essential. With the right logistics support from a trusted provider, businesses can navigate the peak with confidence and sustain growth beyond the season.”

Drawing on its experience supporting e-commerce businesses across Saudi Arabia and globally, FedEx highlights five ways SMEs can strengthen their performance during the Ramadan-Eid peak:

Set delivery commitments early to maintain service quality: SMEs that finalize inventory, delivery cut-off times, and shipping options before Ramadan are better prepared to keep service consistent as shopping volumes rise. Offering shipping options that balance competitive pricing with day-definite cross-border delivery helps businesses set realistic timelines and manage customer expectations.

Align delivery with changing consumer routines: During Ramadan, changes in daily routines often shift consumer shopping to evening and late-night hours.2 Providing near real-time updates and giving package recipients more control over delivery timing and location helps reduce missed deliveries and customer service escalations during busy periods.

Treat packaging as part of the customer experience: During peak gifting periods, how products are packaged matters just as how quickly they arrive. Secure packaging protects the items, while thoughtful presentation strengthens brand perception. Simple touches, such as handwritten notes or festive cards, can elevate the unboxing experience without extra effort.

Approach the days before Eid as a critical period: The final days leading up to Eid are defined by tight delivery windows. During this time, speed and reliability are key. Day-definite express services help businesses deliver on time and meet customer expectations during the peak period.

Prepare for post-Eid returns: Responsibility does not end when Eid begins. Return volumes typically increase after the holiday3, particularly among new customers. SMEs that set up clear and simple return processes in advance can recover inventory quickly, manage cash flow, and keep operations running smoothly after the peak period.

As Saudi Arabia’s e-commerce market continues to expand, the Ramadan-Eid season is becoming a defining moment for SMEs. Businesses that plan ahead and deliver consistently during this high-demand period are well positioned to convert seasonal sales into lasting growth.

About Federal Express Corporation:

Federal Express Corporation is the world’s largest express transportation company, providing fast and reliable delivery to more than 220 countries and territories. Federal Express Corporation uses a global air-and-ground network to speed delivery of time-sensitive shipments by a definite time and date.