What GITEX Taught Us About Arabic UX—and Why It Still Needs Work

What comes to mind when we talk about smart cities, innovative cars, or AI robots? – Yes, we’re talking about GITEX Global. But amid all the flashy innovations lies a quieter (yet significant) trend that has started gaining momentum: Arabic UX. 

As the MENA region emerges as a digital powerhouse, one thing is clear: you can’t serve Arabic-speaking users with the same UX design as Western apps. One cannot beat the experience of regional language, culture, and most importantly, emotional resonance that makes users feel seen and understood.

Fortunately, we’re finally starting to witness real movement in that direction. GITEX 2024 proved that Arabic UX is now recognized and is definitely an utmost priority. Although it’s still in its early stages—and that’s actually a good thing. It means there’s still room for learning and growth. 

Let’s dive into what GITEX taught us about Arabic UX—and what still needs to be done.

Why Arabic UX Matters More Than Ever!

The MENA region is one of the fastest-growing digital economies globally. With over 400 million Arabic speakers, the demand for Arabic UX is not just nice-to-have but a business necessity. 

What GITEX showed us is that companies who invest in culturally fluent design will be the ones that lead in user trust, retention, and market share.

Without Arabic UX, your app (no matter how good your backend or features) won’t be able to stay ahead in the competition. That’s why Arabic UX isn’t just a design issue—it’s a business growth strategy.

As regional governments encourage local innovation, and as users expect more personalized, intuitive digital experiences, the need for Arabic-first digital experiences is totally in demand. It helps to lay a strong foundation for long-term success.

What’s Working for GITEX: Signs of Real Progress in Arabic UX

1. Stronger RTL Design Implementation

Most of the apps and websites showcased clear and functional right-to-left RTL design support. Layouts were seamless, intuitive, with natural flow and navigation (tailored for Arabic users).

It signifies that developers emphasised RTL principles and are working towards Arabic UX best practices. Although consistency and responsiveness still require improvement. 

2. Cultural Sensitivity in Visual Design

At GITEX, it was clear: great Arabic UX isn’t just about translating words; instead, it’s about designing with cultural respect and emotional connection. 

Visual elements, such as icons, illustrations, images, and colour schemes, were aligned with regional values and norms. For instance, apps showcased at GITEX avoided culturally inappropriate visuals and instead leaned into designs that resonated with Arab traditions, family values, modesty, and even local calligraphy styles.

That’s why culturally sensitive visual design is not just a creative choice, but a strategic UX advantage.

3. Localized Microcopy and Voice

GITEX has strategically used localized microcopy and voice – the small texts users can interact with to enhance the user experience. 

Arabic UX isn’t just about translating English copy word for word. It’s about using language that feels familiar, respectful, and natural to the local audience. 

From CTA buttons like “اشترِ الآن” (Buy Now) to helpful tooltips or onboarding messages, every word needs to reflect the tone, formality, and rhythm of the Arabic language.

Because when your app speaks the user’s language—not just literally but emotionally—it builds trust and keeps users coming back.

This represents a significant step forward in establishing trust and relatability with Arabic-speaking users.

Where the Industry Still Has Room to Grow

Of course, the journey is not yet complete. GITEX also revealed key areas that still need attention:

• Typography & Font Usage
  Studies show that Arabic websites often suffer from inconsistent fonts and poor font size usage, which impacts readability and aesthetics. Many GITEX demos continued this trend, compromising professional polish.
• Mobile Responsiveness
  Several exhibitors reported mismatches: solid Arabic UX on web but broken layouts on mobile—highlighting a lack of rigorous RTL testing across device types.
• Insufficient User Research
  Most teams admitted that they hadn’t conducted structured usability testing with native Arabic speakers, thereby risking misinterpretations and missing valuable insights.
• Translation vs. True Localization
  A LinkedIn survey revealed 92% of UAE users prefer tech experiences built for Middle Eastern contexts—not just translated Western products. Literal translations still dominate many booths.

That said, these challenges are no longer being ignored. And that’s progress worth celebrating.

Final Thoughts: From Awareness to Action

GITEX 2024 marked a pivotal moment. For the first time, Arabic UX was no longer hidden in the background. It was part of the main event. However, for this momentum to translate into real change, companies must take the next step.

That means:

• Designing Arabic-first, not Arabic-last.
  
• Hiring regional UX experts who understand the culture inside out.
  
• Testing with real Arabic-speaking users—not relying on assumptions.
  
• Using tools and systems that truly support RTL from the ground up.

If you’re building for the MENA region, remember: Arabic users aren’t looking for a translation—they’re looking for an experience that feels made for them.

And if GITEX is any indication, the future of Arabic UX is not just promising—it’s already in motion.

How Apptunix Can Help Elevate Your Arabic UX

Looking to launch in the MENA region? Apptunix helps you design apps that don’t just speak Arabic—but feel native to Arabic users.

• RTL-Ready Designs: Seamless right-to-left layouts across mobile and web.
  
• Cultural Localization: Microcopy and visuals tailored for Arab audiences.
  
• Native User Testing: Real feedback from Arabic-speaking users to refine UX.
  
• Market-Specific Strategy: Custom UX flows for GCC, Egypt, Levant & more.

Let’s build a digital experience Arabic users will love.