MEITUAN(HK:03690) 第一财经·2025-11-21 00:11Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolving food delivery market in Dubai, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for foreign platforms like Meituan's Keeta in a culturally distinct environment [3][14]. Group 1: Market Overview - Dubai's food delivery market is still developing, with various platforms competing for market share, but it has not yet achieved "delivery freedom" [4][12]. - The online food delivery market in the UAE is projected to reach $1.87 billion by 2025 and $2.46 billion by 2030, with a user penetration rate of 31.4% by 2025 [12]. Group 2: Local Challenges - The delivery model in Dubai differs from China, with many riders being non-locals from South Asia, leading to a "one order one delivery" approach that affects efficiency [5][6]. - High living costs in Dubai result in higher food delivery prices, making it less common for residents to order food frequently [6][7]. Group 3: Platform Dynamics - Keeta, a platform under Meituan, is attempting to penetrate the market with a no-commission model, contrasting with other platforms that charge commissions of 17% to over 30% [10][14]. - The user experience on Keeta is enhanced by features like real-time rider tracking and timely delivery, which are seen as competitive advantages [15][20]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - Talabat and COME COME are notable local competitors, with Talabat having over 6 million active users and 119,000 active riders, while COME COME focuses on Chinese cuisine [13][14]. - Keeta has rapidly expanded in the Middle East, entering Dubai and Abu Dhabi after establishing a presence in Saudi Arabia [13][20]. Group 5: Strategic Insights - Chinese platforms like Keeta leverage their domestic experience to navigate the unique cultural and regulatory landscape of the Middle East, focusing on product variety, reliable delivery, and competitive pricing [20][21]. - The article emphasizes the importance of adapting strategies based on local market research and conditions to succeed in the diverse Middle Eastern market [21].