Chinese e-commerce powerhouse JD.com is intensifying its competition with Meituan by launching a self-operated courier service, JoyExpress, in Saudi Arabia. JD Logistics announced that JoyExpress will provide fast same-day and next-day delivery services across most of Saudi Arabia’s 13 provinces, serving local e-commerce platforms as well as online and offline merchants.
The service offers comprehensive logistics solutions, including cross-border shipping and customs clearance, facilitating global trade. JD Logistics is establishing a broad local network of warehouses, sorting centers, and delivery stations staffed by dedicated couriers, drivers, warehouse personnel, and customer service teams to strengthen its presence.
Charlie Peng, JD Logistics’ Middle East market head, described this expansion as a “key milestone” in JD.com’s international growth, highlighting plans to bring advanced large-item delivery and installation services to the Saudi market.
This move follows Meituan’s recent entry into Saudi Arabia with food and grocery delivery, escalating the companies’ turf war from China to the Middle East. Earlier this year, JD.com reignited competition in China’s food delivery sector against Meituan, with Alibaba’s Ele.me also joining the market amid regulatory scrutiny over heavy subsidies and price wars.
JD.com’s broader overseas expansion includes launching an online travel agency and scaling global warehousing, transport, and flight routes to meet growing Middle East demand amid intensifying domestic competition and economic challenges.
