Refurbished Tech on the Rise as Recommerce Expands in the Middle East

The refurbished technology market is emerging as one of the Middle East’s fastest-growing sectors, thanks to its affordability, sustainability, and shifting consumer behavior. In the UAE alone, the recommerce market was valued at US$1.71 billion in 2024 and is projected to almost double to US$3.43 billion by 2029 (GlobeNewswire). Smartphones and laptops dominate demand, with the broader Middle East and Africa refurbished and used mobile phone market expected to reach US$12.39 billion by 2030 (Custom Market Insights).

Consumer appetite is also clear: a recent YouGov survey found that two-thirds of UAE residents are open to buying refurbished electronics, with more than a quarter having already made the switch (YourStory / YouGov). As global recommerce momentum converges with local demand, refurbished tech is rapidly moving from niche to mainstream in the GCC.

Early Pioneers Capitalize on Growing Demand

When Nuri Goksu launched his company, Trendyoo, more than a decade ago, he was looking for a product that could sell itself. He chose iPhones, not new ones, but refurbished devices with high turnover and steady demand. He also made another early bet: to operate entirely online.

His company has since expanded its reach by joining Temu, a global e-commerce platform. Within three weeks of listing on Temu, the platform accounted for 20% of the company’s total revenue, Goksu said. “We’ve sold on many platforms,” he said, “but none of them had such a strong start, not even the biggest names.”

A growing number of refurbished electronics sellers are joining Temu, offering items ranging from iPhones to pre-owned printers, robotic pool cleaners and gaming consoles—often at discounts of 50% or more compared with new retail prices.