The United Arab Emirates has successfully cultivated a pioneering and integrated transport ecosystem, leveraging its world-class infrastructure to become a fertile ground for startups in the smart mobility sector. By strategically opening its doors to investment and innovation, the country has attracted a dynamic mix of local and global companies eager to deploy modern, sustainable transport solutions for short daily commutes.
Fostering Innovation Through Infrastructure and Regulation
The UAE’s success is rooted in a deliberate strategy of building both physical and regulatory frameworks that support micro-mobility. Authorities in key emirates have been proactive in creating a safe and accessible environment for services like e-scooters and e-bikes.
In Abu Dhabi, licensing for app-based scooter rentals began in 2019, with the number of approved operational areas growing to eight by 2023, including prominent locations like Yas Island and Al Reem Island. The capital is also ambitious with its cycling network, planning to expand it to over 3,000 kilometres by 2026.
Similarly, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) officially launched the first phase of its e-scooter operations in 2022 across 10 districts. To ensure user safety and accessibility, the RTA introduced a free online permit system and has invested in high-quality tracks. These efforts have yielded significant results, with shared e-scooter trips in Dubai doubling to over one million in 2022.
Local Champions and Global Players
The supportive environment has catalyzed the growth of homegrown startups while also attracting major international players. The ecosystem boasts one of the region’s most prominent success stories, Careem, a Dubai-based startup founded in 2012 that was acquired by Uber in 2019 for $3.1 billion, cementing the UAE’s reputation as a hub for unicorn creation.
Following in its footsteps is the UAE-based startup Arnab Mobility, the country’s first micro-mobility company to integrate multimodal transport systems. Arnab operates an on-demand shared platform for e-scooters and e-bikes, aligning with the nation’s smart city vision.
The market’s potential has also drawn global companies like FENIX, which launched its shared electric bike service in late 2021, and Tier, a pioneer in sustainable operations through its innovative swappable battery technology.
Driving Adoption With Smart Technology
Technology is at the core of the user experience, with seamless smartphone applications enabling users to locate, unlock, and pay for rides. Each vehicle is equipped with a unique QR code, simplifying the process and encouraging widespread adoption across all segments of society.
Demonstrating its commitment to technological advancement, Dubai’s RTA launched a globally pioneering smart assessment system in 2025. This system utilizes advanced technology to evaluate the condition of cycling and e-scooter tracks, ensuring the highest standards of maintenance, safety, and user experience for flexible mobility solutions.
About Arnab Mobility
Arnab Mobility is a UAE-based on-demand shared platform for light electric vehicles, including e-scooters and e-bikes. As the first micro-mobility company in the UAE to integrate multimodal transport systems, Arnab aims to connect people and places in smarter, more sustainable ways. Its digital and physical platform focuses on providing environmentally friendly and affordable transport solutions that are easy and safe to use, contributing to the smart city visions of the UAE and the wider MENA region.
Source: WAM
