Market Insight
MENA online food delivery refers to the digital platform-based service in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region that allows customers to order food from local restaurants through websites or mobile apps. It offers a convenient way for users to browse menus, place orders, and have meals delivered to their doorstep, promoting ease and accessibility in the food delivery process across a diverse and geographically extensive area. Additionally, the online food delivery industry in the MENA region has significant growth potential. With a rising urban population, increasing smartphone penetration, and changing consumer preferences, there is a growing demand for convenient food delivery services. The scope for expansion and innovation in this sector is vast, making it an attractive market for both established players and new entrants looking to capitalize on the region's evolving dining habits.The MENA online food delivery market is poised for growth due to the rising demand for user-friendly applications, which enhance convenience and accessibility, thereby boosting the adoption of online food delivery services in the region. Additionally, the rapid surge in online food ordering is a major driver of market growth, reshaping consumer habits and propelling the MENA online food delivery market to new heights as convenience and digital accessibility become paramount. However, market growth is hindered by high supply chain and logistics costs, which increase operational expenses, impacting the profitability of online food delivery services in the MENA region. Although, the MENA region is on the verge of experiencing significant growth in its online food delivery market, primarily due to the increasing trend of digitalization, widespread adoption of smartphones, and governmental initiatives aimed at advancing digital technologies. These circumstances provide a promising environment for the expansion of online food delivery services, presenting attractive prospects for businesses operating in this sector within the region.
The highest market share region in MENA is the United Arab Emirates (UAE). UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, has a thriving online food delivery ecosystem dominated by popular platforms such as Talabat, and Uber Eats. The UAE's strong economy, high internet penetration, and a diverse population with a penchant for dining out or ordering in contributed to its leading market share. Moreover, the fastest-growing region in the MENA online food delivery market is Saudi Arabia. With a large and youthful population, an increasing appetite for convenience, and the emergence of homegrown delivery platforms, Saudi Arabia is witnessing rapid growth in online food delivery services. The COVID-19 pandemic also accelerated this growth as more consumers turned to online platforms for their food needs. Saudi Arabia's online food delivery market is poised for continued expansion, making it a key focus for both local and international food delivery companies.

