The Rise of PetBae in Dubai
In the vibrant city of Dubai, where pet ownership is on the rise, a local startup is making waves by offering a unique solution to pet parents who want to travel without worrying about their furry friends. Meet Joey Chaaya, the co-founder and CEO of PetBae, a peer-to-peer marketplace that connects pet owners with individual sitters who can care for their pets whenever they need it.
This innovative approach allows pet parents to avoid traditional boarding services, which can often be stressful for animals. Instead, sitters provide a home-like environment for pets, whether through drop-in visits, overnight stays, or even dog walking. The platform operates on a review system, enabling users to choose sitters based on their experiences and feedback.
The Inspiration Behind PetBae
Joey Chaaya’s journey with PetBae began with a personal challenge: leaving his beloved rescue dog, Renzo, behind during holidays. This experience inspired him to create a better alternative, leading him to a neighbour who offered loving in-home care. This model became the foundation for PetBae.
The idea was born between two friends, Chaaya and Kareem Costenoble, in 2019. It took shape in the fall of 2021 when the online platform launched to the public. Since then, PetBae has grown into a trusted name in the pet care industry.
How PetBae Works
PetBae functions as a connector, linking pet owners with a carefully vetted network of sitters. The platform offers a range of services, including dog walking, drop-in visits, overnight pet sitting at the owner’s home, boarding at the sitter’s residence, and daycare.
The business model is transparent, with PetBae taking a 20% commission from the sitter’s earnings and applying a 5% service charge to the pet owner. This structure, combined with sitters operating from their homes, often results in significant savings, with PetBae’s services averaging 25% cheaper than traditional options.
Vetting Process
A key factor in PetBae’s success is its rigorous vetting process. Out of 12,000 sign-ups for sitters, only around 2,000 have been approved, with just 1,000 actively receiving bookings. The process includes verifying experience, requiring Emirates IDs and references, conducting detailed background checks, and often a personal video call.
Joey explained that the pet owner ultimately makes the decision based on their preferences. The platform also relies on reviews from other pet owners to help inform choices. Sitters and owners meet in advance through a chat system, ensuring a smooth and safe experience.
Funding and Future Plans
One of the most intriguing aspects of PetBae’s story is its funding journey. While engaging with venture capitalists and institutional investors, the initial capital came directly from the PetBae community itself. “We ended up raising from pet owners,” Joey said.
Looking ahead, PetBae is set for expansion. The company plans to extend its services across Abu Dhabi and the wider emirates. New offerings include a curated grooming service that will integrate existing, highly selected grooming companies, as well as the introduction of pet insurance policies marketed through the platform. The long-term vision includes evolving into a “super app” for all pet-related needs.
A Thriving Ecosystem
With an impressive 65% retention rate and a 50% repeat booking ratio, PetBae is more than just a business; it’s a thriving ecosystem built on trust, convenience, and a shared love for animals. The focus remains on scaling core services first, with a strategy of “less is more” to ensure continued growth and success.
