Malls may be closed and shops may be shut, but some brands in the UAE are making themselves more accessible than ever, by inviting customers to place orders via WhatsApp.
Simply message the stores’ dedicated numbers to contact staff who can send you product pictures and prices, plus a secure payment link once you’ve made your selection. Your order will then be delivered to your door.
Whether you want pharmacy basics, home accessories or luxury clothing, here are some of the stores you can browse from your smartphone...
Harvey Nichols
Since the luxury department store can’t operate from its Mall of the Emirates premises, Harvey Nichols has made itself available remotely. Customers are invited to send a message asking to chat to one the department store’s experts, who can send pictures, prices and product recommendations. The service is available from 10am to 5pm and delivery is free.
WhatsApp: 058 106 2247; www.harveynichols.com
Boots
Boots has launched a new home delivery service and has a team of pharmacists on hand to give health advice and offer product recommendations from the pharmacy’s wide range of health and beauty products.
The service is available from 8am to 4pm and you can pay by cash on delivery.
WhatsApp: 056 866 4196; www.me.boots.com
Diptyque
If you are looking to freshen up your home while spending time indoors, Diptyque’s WhatsApp service may come in handy. The company’s scented candles, perfumes, and face and body care products can now be ordered directly, with same-day delivery across the UAE. For orders of more than Dh300, delivery is free and will come with two Diptyque samples.
WhatsApp: 055 218 8356; www.diptyqueparis.com
Aura Living
Home accessories and furniture brand Aura Living has launched the Aura Shopping experience on WhatsApp, with delivery services in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Its customer service team can share catalogues and suggestions.
WhatsApp: +966 542 518 949
Five Little Ducks
For anything baby-related, call on Five Little Ducks, which stocks a range of products by international brands – from car seats and strollers to teething aids, high chairs and changing mats. There are also toys and games to entertain the children, and gifts if you need to send something to a mum-to-be.
WhatsApp: 050 710 3471; www.fivelittleducks
Lorna Jane ME
If you’re taking this opportunity to work out at home, or are adopting a more relaxed approach to workwear now that you are doing your job remotely, you might need to stock up on some activewear. Lorna Jean offers a full range of comfortable, high-performance options that can be ordered via WhatsApp.
WhatsApp: 052 244 7045; www.lornajane.me
My Kaftan
For those opting for a more sophisticated approach to their work-from-home wardrobes, but still wanting to be comfortable, My Kaftan offers a range of beautifully designed options. They’ll make an impression on those Zoom chats, too.
WhatsApp: 050 534 9880; www.mykaftanstore.com
Holly Holistic
If you’re taking this time to practise some self-care, get straight on the phone to the team at Holly Holistic. The UAE’s first home-grown brand dedicated to holistic living sells everything from salt lamps and crystals to dreamcatchers, body products and frankincense. They’ll serve up a bit of positive energy in a difficult time.
WhatsApp: 056 660 8051; www.hollyholistic.com
Longchamp
French fashion and accessories brand Longchamp is also now serving customers via WhatsApp, offering the opportunity to buy its leather goods via the app.
WhatsApp: 050 867 7783 and 056 763 2863; www.longchamp.com
Tumi
Buying new luggage may not be top of anyone’s mind at the moment, but if you did want to get yourself ready for when we can all travel again, the team at luxury suitcase, backpack and bag brand Tumi can be contacted via WhatsApp to offer assistance.
WhatsApp: 055 671 6513 and 056 990 4673; www.tumi.com
