The UAE has emerged as a global leader in smart and sustainable transportation. Alongside its advanced road networks, metro systems, and public transport infrastructure, the country has embraced smart mobility solutions such as electric scooters and bicycles.
These options provide fast, affordable, and environmentally friendly ways to travel short distances, while also improving connectivity between residential areas, business districts, and public transport hubs.
By establishing clear regulations and providing modern infrastructure, the UAE has created an ideal environment for startups to innovate and grow. As a result, several local and international startups have successfully launched and expanded their smart mobility services across the country, contributing to the development of future-ready cities.
1. Careem
Founded in Dubai in 2012, Careem is one of the UAE’s most successful startup stories. What began as a regional ride-hailing and delivery platform quickly grew into a major technology company. Careem’s expansion across the Middle East and beyond demonstrated the strength of the UAE’s startup ecosystem. In 2019, its acquisition by Uber for US$3.1 billion marked a historic milestone, positioning Careem as a symbol of entrepreneurial success in the region.
2. Arnab Mobility
Arnab is a UAE-based startup and the country’s first micro-mobility company to integrate multimodal transport systems. The company offers shared electric scooters and e-bikes through a smart digital platform, allowing users to unlock vehicles and make payments using their smartphones. Arnab focuses on sustainability, safety, and ease of use, supporting smart city goals and enhancing urban connectivity across the UAE and the wider MENA region.
3. FENIX
FENIX entered the UAE market in 2021 with its shared electric bike rental service. Since then, the company has expanded its offerings to include shared e-scooters and the region’s first private e-scooter subscription service, My FENIX. By providing flexible and accessible mobility options, FENIX has helped meet the growing demand for eco-friendly transport solutions in urban areas.
4. Tier
Tier is a global micro-mobility company known for its innovative use of swappable battery technology. This approach allows batteries to be replaced on-site instead of transporting scooters to charging stations, reducing emissions and improving efficiency. Tier’s operations in the UAE support sustainability goals and highlight how technology can make urban transport cleaner and more efficient.
5. Lime
Lime is an international shared mobility company offering electric scooters and bikes through a user-friendly mobile application. Operating in several UAE locations, Lime focuses on providing safe, affordable, and convenient short-distance travel options. Its presence reflects the UAE’s openness to global startups and its commitment to integrating proven mobility solutions into its transport ecosystem.
6. Skurrt
Skurrt is a local startup contributing to the UAE’s smart mobility landscape by offering shared e-scooter services tailored to urban communities. With a focus on accessibility and safety, Skurrt supports last-mile connectivity and complements public transport systems, making daily commutes more convenient for residents and visitors.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
