PetBae, a homegrown pet care startup, has landed a significant investment on the latest season of Shark Tank UAE, marking a new milestone for the company and showcasing the vibrant spirit of Dubai’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The deal, which saw the company secure AED 1.85 million, underscores growing investor confidence in the region’s rapidly expanding pet industry.
Founded by Joey Chaaya, a Dubai-born entrepreneur, PetBae emerged from a personal need for a more reliable and personalized alternative to traditional pet boarding facilities. The company operates as a community-based platform that connects pet owners with a network of vetted sitters who offer home-based, cage-free care. This model provides a safer, more affordable, and personalized solution for pet parents.
The investment comes at a pivotal time for the Middle East’s pet care market. A recent report indicates the UAE pet care market is valued at over $24 million and is projected to see significant growth, with some estimates suggesting the broader MENA region could reach $2 billion by 2025. This surge is driven by a confluence of factors, including a rise in pet ownership, increasing disposable incomes, and the growing trend of “pet humanization,” where pets are seen as integral family members.
“The capital-raising environment has changed fundamentally. Investors are no longer chasing growth at all costs; they’re demanding a clear path to profitability,” said one source. PetBae’s business model, which takes a 20% commission from sitters’ earnings and a 5% service charge from pet owners, presents a clear and scalable path to profitability, making it an attractive prospect for investors. The platform’s stringent vetting process, which has approved only about 2,000 of 12,000 sitter sign-ups, further builds trust and differentiates it in a competitive market.
With the new capital, PetBae is poised for accelerated growth. The company plans to expand its core services across Abu Dhabi and the wider emirates. Looking ahead, it is set to introduce new offerings, including mobile grooming services and pet insurance policies, while building a dedicated app to enhance the user experience.
This successful appearance on a national platform like Shark Tank not only provides PetBae with crucial funding but also validates its business model and vision. It serves as a powerful testament to the power of local innovation and the supportive ecosystem that Dubai provides for entrepreneurs aiming to solve everyday problems with scalable, tech-driven solutions. As the pet care industry in the region continues its ascent, PetBae’s journey highlights a new chapter in how a community-centric approach can lead the way.
