Microsoft has launched Waha Store, the first e-commerce website solely dedicated to Windows Phones in the UAE, to address growing interest and demand in the region.

Launched in partnership with global wireless distributor Brightpoint Middle East, which offers its e-commerce and supply chain expertise, Waha Store makes Windows Phone devices available to customers in the region for the first time, a statement from Microsoft said.

Waha, which means “oasis” in English, will provide a convenient, reliable and centralised destination for consumers across the country to purchase the latest sleek form factors from a variety of Windows Phone device manufacturers.

It will offer customers secure warranties with their purchases and arrange for the delivery of new phones directly to the customer’s doorstep. Shoppers who visit Waha will also have the option to choose from a variety of wireless providers.

Anurag Gupta, president of Brightpoint Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “Our expertise in offering e-commerce and supply chain solutions will make Waha the go-to place for all UAE customers who have been awaiting a well-functioning channel to access Windows Phones. We look forward to supporting Waha’s launch in other countries in the Middle East and Africa, as we continue to expand our presence in the region.”

“We are very pleased to bring Windows Phones to early-adopter smartphone consumers in the UAE, where there has been growing excitement about the launch,” said Samer Ramez Abu-Ltaif, regional general manager, Microsoft Gulf Region. “Customers need a dependable way to obtain accurate information on, and securely purchase, the latest mobile handsets; and Waha Store provides exactly that - your Windows Phone oasis.”

The Waha user interface mirrors the Windows Phone experience, enabling shoppers to immediately familiarise with the operating system and ‘Metro’ design style.

Shoppers will also have the opportunity to compare various models, read reviews, and watch demo videos, to get a good understanding of the product range and features.

The site’s integrated social media platform will bring people together, by allowing them to make recommendations and share their activities with friends, family and colleagues.

The newly-designed user navigation reflects how people work, play and communicate: so-called hubs (such as contacts, photos, and games), bundle applications and the internet are organised into useful topic areas and help users to efficiently manage their work and private life.

Windows Phone Marketplace will also be available in the UAE in the next few months, enabling users to browse and download from a range of apps. – TradeArabia News Service