Second-Hand Retail Market Update – August, 2025

Global Market Overview

The global second-hand retail market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable and affordable alternatives to new products. In 2024, the global second-hand goods market was valued at approximately $300 billion and is projected to reach nearly $500 billion by 2030. This growth is fueled by factors such as heightened environmental awareness, economic considerations, and the rise of online resale platforms.

Middle East & UAE Specific Trends

The Middle East, particularly the UAE, is witnessing a surge in the second-hand retail market. The UAE’s second-hand luxury goods market was valued at $1.04 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.6% until 2034.

Key Industry Segments

Fashion/Apparel

The second-hand apparel market is expanding rapidly, with platforms like The Luxury Closet, My Ex Wardrobe, and Second Hand Dubai offering curated selections of pre-owned luxury clothing. These platforms cater to a growing base of affluent consumers seeking exclusive high-end pieces at more affordable prices.

Furniture

The second-hand furniture market is gaining traction, with consumers increasingly opting for pre-owned furniture due to cost savings and sustainability considerations. Online platforms and local marketplaces are facilitating the buying and selling of second-hand furniture in the region.

Consumer Electronics

The market for refurbished and second-hand electronics is growing, driven by the demand for affordable technology and the increasing acceptance of refurbished products. Platforms offering certified pre-owned electronics are gaining popularity among consumers.

Luxury Goods

The second-hand luxury goods market is thriving, with platforms like The Luxury Closet, Garderobe, and Digg offering authenticated pre-owned luxury items. These platforms cater to consumers seeking high-end products at reduced prices, aligning with the growing trend of sustainable luxury consumption.

Key Players in the UAE and Middle East

The Luxury Closet: Founded in 2012, The Luxury Closet is a leading online platform for buying and selling pre-owned luxury goods, including fashion, watches, and accessories. The platform offers a wide range of products from top luxury brands and has a strong presence in the UAE market.

Garderobe: Garderobe is a luxury consignment store in Dubai offering a curated selection of pre-owned designer fashion items. The store provides a platform for consumers to buy and sell high-end fashion pieces, promoting sustainable fashion practices.

Thrift for Good: Thrift for Good is a social enterprise in the UAE that sells pre-owned clothing and donates profits to children’s charities. The platform combines sustainable fashion with social impact, appealing to conscious consumers.

Digg: Digg is an online thrift store in the UAE that offers a curated selection of pre-owned fashion items. The platform combines online shopping with community events, promoting sustainable fashion practices.

Second Hand Dubai: Second Hand Dubai is a popular online classifieds platform where users can buy and sell second-hand items, including furniture, electronics, and fashion. The platform facilitates the exchange of pre-owned goods in the UAE.

Facebook Marketplace: Facebook Marketplace is widely used in the UAE for buying and selling second-hand items. The platform allows users to list and browse a variety of products, including furniture, electronics, and fashion.

Market Drivers

Several factors are driving the growth of the second-hand retail market in the UAE and Middle East:

Sustainability: Increasing awareness of environmental issues is encouraging consumers to opt for pre-owned products as a more sustainable alternative to new items.
Economic Factors: Economic considerations, such as the desire to save money and access high-quality products at lower prices, are motivating consumers to explore second-hand options.
Digital Transformation: The rise of online platforms and mobile applications has made it easier for consumers to buy and sell second-hand goods, expanding the market reach.

Market Prediction

The second-hand retail market in the UAE and Middle East is expected to continue its growth trajectory, with increasing consumer acceptance and the expansion of online platforms. The market for second-hand luxury goods, in particular, is poised for significant growth, driven by the demand for affordable luxury and sustainable consumption practices.

Latest Second-Hand Retail News

Rolex Certified Pre-Owned Program: Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, a Dubai-based retailer, is pioneering Rolex’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program by specializing in highly collectible vintage models, some over 50 years old, in its new dedicated store in Dubai’s Wafi Mall. This initiative aims to cater to maturing market tastes and offer authenticated pre-owned luxury watches.

Sustainable Fashion Initiatives: The UAE is witnessing a growing interest in sustainable fashion, with initiatives promoting the resale and upcycling of clothing. Platforms like Thrift for Good and Digg are leading the way in combining fashion with social impact and sustainability.

According to a recent report, UK shoppers have saved £5.6 billion by buying second-hand items, including fashion and electronics .

In the UAE, second-hand luxury goods sales have risen by 20% over the last year, driven by both locals and tourists seeking high-end pre-owned items .

The popularity of refurbished electronics is also gaining traction, with a new report indicating that the market for refurbished smartphones in the UAE is expected to grow by 14% annually.

Conclusion

The second-hand retail market, driven by sustainability, economic factors, and technological advancements, is poised for continued growth globally and in the UAE/Middle East. With each sector, from fashion to luxury goods, experiencing significant expansion, businesses that embrace the circular economy stand to benefit in the coming years.

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Second-Hand Retail Market Update – August, 2025

Global Market Overview

Middle East & UAE Specific Trends

Key Industry Segments

Fashion/Apparel

Furniture

Consumer Electronics

Luxury Goods

Key Players in the UAE and Middle East

Market Drivers

Market Prediction

Latest Second-Hand Retail News

Conclusion

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Table of Contents

The Latest

Just-In-Time Fulfillment Excellence for a Consumer Electronics Retailer

Scaling Peak-Season Fulfillment for a Consumer Electronics Retailer

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