The memorandum supports knowledge transfer, the creation of highly skilled jobs, and the empowerment of small and medium-sized enterprises, in line with the objectives of the UAE Centennial 2071 and the National Digital Economy Strategy.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The UAE Ministry of Investment signed a memorandum of understanding with Kita, the international arm of Meituan Group, a global leader in delivery and lifestyle services. The agreement aims to establish Kita's headquarters in the UAE and strengthen the country's leadership in digital commerce and logistics services powered by technology and artificial intelligence.

The MoU was officially signed by His Excellency Mohammed Hassan Al Suwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and Tony Chiu, Vice President of International Business at Meituan and CEO of KITA.

Support the establishment of KITA's headquarters in the country

The Ministry of Investment will support KITA in entering the UAE market and establishing its headquarters there, by connecting it with relevant federal and local authorities. It will also study the possibility of granting KITA investment incentives consistent with national frameworks.

Contributing to the UAE's economic vision in the country

KITA is committed to directly contributing to the country's economic vision. The initiative includes creating more than 350 highly skilled jobs and integrating more than 5,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UAE onto the KITA digital platform, supporting their growth and enhancing their access to regional markets.

The MoU underscores KITA's regional growth ambitions, including plans to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in the UAE over the next three to five years, cementing the country's position as a pivotal market for KITA's expansion.

KITA will also offer advanced solutions to enhance logistics services, including drones and autonomous vehicles, enhancing sustainability and operational efficiency. Furthermore, the company will provide training programs and innovative workshops to develop talent and equip them with the knowledge and expertise needed to keep pace with the future.

Joint communication strategy

The Ministry of Investment and KITA will also collaborate on developing a joint communications strategy aimed at highlighting the UAE's growing role as a hub for digital innovation, logistics, and investment. The two parties also agreed to explore additional areas of cooperation, to be jointly determined in writing, in line with the country's national economic priorities.

On this occasion, His Excellency Mohammed Hassan Al Suwaidi, Minister of Investment, said: “The UAE continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for innovation and trade, and the establishment of KITA’s new headquarters and its significant investments in the UAE confirm this position. The UAE provides companies with an ideal platform for growth and global expansion, thanks to its advanced infrastructure, flexible legislative environment, ease of doing business, and strategic location that connects major global markets. This cooperation reflects our commitment to implementing the National Investment Strategy 2031, supporting sustainable economic growth, and opening up broad horizons for investment opportunities across various sectors.”

Tony Chiu, Vice President of International Business at Meituan and CEO of Kita, said: “Signing the MoU with the UAE Ministry of Investment marks a pivotal step in Kita’s global journey. The UAE is not only a leading regional powerhouse, but also a global hub for innovation, trade, and investment, making it a pivotal market for our expansion. Through this partnership, we are able to align our businesses with the country’s ambitious vision, leverage its dynamic investment ecosystem, and showcase our capabilities in digital commerce and technology-enabled logistics. This collaboration will enable us to accelerate innovation, empower local businesses, create quality jobs, and set new standards for the future of the delivery economy in the UAE and the region.”

KITA's market entry strategy contributes to consolidating the country's position as a global investment hub and a leading innovation destination. By establishing influential international partnerships, encouraging private sector participation, and developing digital infrastructure, the UAE continues to build a diversified and resilient economy, equipped to seize emerging opportunities in the global digital trade and logistics sectors.

About the Ministry of Investment in the United Arab Emirates

The Ministry of Investment plays a pivotal role in strengthening the UAE's position as a global investment hub with a high-level global network of relationships in international markets. By attracting foreign direct investment in vital sectors and strengthening public-private partnerships, the Ministry invests in the UAE's attractive investment environment and ambitious economic diversification goals, consolidating the country's position as an attractive, forward-looking destination for international investors and companies.

About Invest in the UAE:

Invest in the UAE is a platform affiliated with the Ministry of Investment that aims to develop and improve the UAE's investment environment and enhance its position as a leading global investment destination. Under the supervision of the Ministry of Investment, the Invest in the UAE platform seeks to attract and facilitate foreign direct investment (FDI) in various sectors of the UAE economy and stimulate partnerships between international investors and countries. It also aspires to create an environment that enables individuals, companies, and capital to grow and prosper, consolidating the UAE's position as an attractive investment destination for all.

About "Keta" :

Kita is a delivery platform that uses technology to connect consumers with retailers, food vendors, and local delivery drivers. With its mission to "help everyone eat better and live better," Kita is committed to providing high-quality local products and services that benefit consumers, food vendors, retailers, and delivery drivers alike. Kita is the Saudi arm of delivery giant Meituan (Hong Kong: 3690), which owns Meituan Waimai, China's leading food delivery platform.

For media inquiries

Layla.hajjaj@keetainc.com

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