Retail establishments can issue online discount permits for Ramadan sales, Saudi Arabia’s ministry of commerce announced on Thursday.
The ministry launched the facility enabling commercial establishments to issue permits electronically for the Ramadan discounts season, which starts on March 23 and lasts until April 21.
The ministry clarified that issuing the discount permits for Ramadan will not cause the establishments to lose days from the annual sale balance.
The service of issuing permits for seasonal discounts online will contribute to facilitating the process for merchants in a way that enables them to save their own balance of e-discounts.
The system allows merchants to print permits to eliminate fake discount offers, as well as to create a healthy commercial environment.
Retail sales in Saudi Arabia and UAE are expected to increase this Ramadan, as compared to the previous year.
“The levels of enthusiasm about Ramadan shopping in Saudi Arabia and the UAE this year seem unchanged compared to last year, according to responses to the survey,” Redseer Consulting said.
Online sales will increase as well, with overall planned purchases rising by 14 per cent during Ramadan.
Consumers in Saudi Arabia also prioritise free shipping during the month.
