A Keeta delivery rider in Dubai. ARCHIVE

If you’ve noticed a surge of yellow-clad Keeta riders zipping around Dubai lately, you’re not alone. The food delivery newcomer is making major moves across the UAE — powered by Chinese tech giant Meituan, the world’s largest on-demand delivery company. Keeta, backed by China’s tech giant Meituan — the world’s largest on-demand delivery company — has been rapidly expanding across the Gulf. The company, which handles more than 150 million daily orders worldwide, is making a big impression in Dubai with its tech-driven logistics, attractive rider incentives, and irresistible customer deals. Keeta’s parent company, Meituan, operates a massive global network serving 770 million users, with an annual transaction volume of more than $155 billion. Founded by Chinese tech entrepreneur Wang Xing in 2010, Meituan is known for revolutionizing last-mile delivery using AI, automation, and real-time route optimization — technologies now being rolled out in the UAE through Keeta.

Partnerships powering Dubai’s delivery boom

In Dubai, Keeta’s growth accelerated after forming a strategic partnership with Dubai Taxi Company (DTC). Under the deal, DTC deployed an initial 150 delivery motorbikes for Keeta, with plans to scale up to 500 by the end of 2025. The collaboration ensures full regulatory compliance from day one while generating over Dh10 million in revenue in its first year. DTC’s delivery-bike segment has already seen a 102 percent surge year-on-year, reaching Dh18.2 million in the second quarter of 2025. Keeta’s arrival in the UAE is backed by a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE Ministry of Investment, committing hundreds of millions of dollars in investments over the next few years. The plan includes creating more than 350 skilled jobs, integrating 5,000 UAE-based SMEs, and deploying AI-driven logistics such as autonomous delivery vehicles and drones. “Keeta’s entry into the UAE aligns with our national strategy to attract global investment and foster innovation,” said Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment.

Better pay, better perks

Behind Keeta’s growing fleet is a compensation model that riders say is among the most competitive in Dubai’s gig economy. Thanks to its smart route optimization and incentive programs, riders can reportedly complete more deliveries per hour — and earn more overall compared to other platforms. “Keeta’s system is designed to maximize rider efficiency while ensuring fair earnings,” said a company insider familiar with the regional operations.

Deals that have Dubai talking

Keeta’s popularity isn’t just about speed — it’s also about savings. The platform is drawing in new users with app-exclusive promotions, including a Dh150 total discount for first-time customers. Through its Founding Vendor Program, restaurants and shops joining Keeta before its full public launch earlier this year enjoyed zero setup and registration fees, helping small businesses onboard easily and reach new customers. Already active in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, Keeta plans to expand across all six Gulf countries, adding Bahrain and Oman soon. With its combination of innovation, rider-friendly policies, and customer-first incentives, Keeta is quickly becoming the delivery app everyone’s talking about in Dubai. PIA/ICA/Expat Media
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