Key Growth Drivers Fueling the Used Shoe Business in the Middle East

The used shoe market in the Middle East is experiencing a remarkable upswing, emerging as a dynamic segment within the region’s broader circular fashion economy. Driven by a confluence of cultural, economic, technological, and regulatory factors, this growth is not only reshaping consumer behavior but also creating lucrative opportunities for businesses across the supply chain. From the thriving sneaker resale scene in the UAE to the expanding luxury pre-owned footwear market in Saudi Arabia, multiple interconnected drivers are propelling the sector forward, catering to diverse consumer segments and market demands.

A primary driver is the soaring popularity of sneaker culture and the pursuit of exclusive, vintage footwear. Fueled by social media influence and celebrity endorsements, sneaker culture has become a prominent lifestyle trend in the Middle East, particularly among millennials and Gen Z. The UAE’s resale sneaker market alone is valued at $1.2 billion, with demand surging for limited-edition,(collaborative) and retro styles that offer uniqueness and social status. Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as regional retail and cultural hubs, lead this trend, attracting affluent consumers and fashion enthusiasts willing to invest in pre-owned premium sneakers—some of which even command prices higher than their original retail value due to scarcity.

Growing awareness of sustainable consumption is another pivotal factor. As global circular fashion trends gain traction, Middle Eastern consumers, especially younger generations, are increasingly embracing used shoes as a way to reduce environmental impact by extending product lifecycles. This shift aligns with the broader Middle East secondhand luxury goods market’s trajectory, which is projected to grow from $45.3 billion in 2025 to $102.8 billion by 2031 at a CAGR of 14.7%. For many consumers, choosing pre-owned footwear is no longer just an economic decision but a statement of environmental responsibility, driving demand across both mass and luxury segments.

Digitalization and advanced authentication technologies have significantly lowered barriers to entry and enhanced consumer trust. E-commerce platforms and dedicated resale marketplaces have made used shoes more accessible, connecting buyers and sellers across the region and even globally. The adoption of digital payment solutions like BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) and mobile wallets has further streamlined transactions, appealing to tech-savvy young consumers. Crucially, technologies such as blockchain and AI-based verification have addressed counterfeiting concerns—a major hurdle in pre-owned fashion—by ensuring the authenticity of branded footwear. Government regulations, such as the UAE’s 2023 mandate for resale platforms to verify sneaker authenticity, have also strengthened consumer confidence in the market.

Economic factors, including affordability and rising disposable incomes, play a dual role in driving growth. For price-sensitive consumers, used shoes offer a cost-effective alternative to new products, with prices typically 30-70% lower while maintaining quality. This is particularly appealing amid global economic fluctuations. Conversely, the region’s growing affluent population and expanding middle class have boosted demand for pre-owned luxury footwear, as part of a broader trend where GCC consumers increasingly engage in reselling (and purchasing) high-end pre-owned goods to optimize value. Saudi Arabia’s footwear market, valued at over $1.2 billion in 2024, is growing at a CAGR of 7.8%, fueled by rising disposable incomes and evolving fashion preferences.

In summary, the Middle East’s used shoe business is thriving due to the synergistic effect of sneaker culture, sustainable consumption trends, digital innovation, favorable economic conditions, and supportive regulatory frameworks. As these drivers continue to strengthen—with younger generations leading adoption and luxury brands increasingly embracing circular models—the market is poised for sustained expansion. For businesses operating in this space, understanding and leveraging these interconnected trends will be key to tapping into the region’s significant growth potential.