UAE consumers reward companies for social responsibility

817 UAE consumers were asked their opinions on CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) related issues. The results from the UAE were compared with the findings from 24 different countries.

A large majority, 59%, of UAE consumers, would either consider rewarding or have rewarded a company for their CSR efforts. Respondents were asked if a company's CSR activity would urge them to talk positively about that company and whether it would encourage them to buy and recommend companies or brands.

The UAE ranked 11 out 24 countries, for having the most CSR driven consumers. The importance rating UAE residents put on CSR is similar to that of the British, French and German populations.

Lina Nahhas, C.O.O YouGovSiraj says,

'I believe consumers in the UAE, won't accept bad behaviour from companies anymore. They are also no longer prepared to turn a blind eye to companies' lack of action.They want to see organisations give back to the community and assist in this country's sustainable development. They want to feel good buying or recommending them.'

Lina Nahhas, C.O.O has a specialist interest in CSR and has conducted a variety of research projects on this subject over the last six years. She has fifteen years research experience in the Arab world.

'Charitable donations have always been a part of business life in this region. Now consumers are expecting more than just charity from companies.'

Lina Nahhas continues, 'We have always believed that consumers in the UAE, are not, as people presume behind in their attitudes towards CSR. This finding is proof that organisations need to think seriously about incorporating CSR because it is what consumers want and are beginning to expect from companies here. The time for complacency is over.'

Examples of Corporate Social Responsibility:
Becoming a Carbon Neutral company
Actively training and hiring UAE nationals
Producing Programmes for Entrepreneurship
Creating Industry Related Scholarships
Donating Computers to Schools
Building schools, roads and hospitals
Protecting rights of certain groups; women, children, workers.