Ray, a Dubai-based powerbank-sharing startup, has announced the successful closure of a $1.2 million seed funding round to fuel its expansion across the UAE and the wider GCC region. The investment was led by private investors, including Meirambek Abelkasov and Serik Uspanov, the co-founders of the prominent kick-sharing platform JET. This capital injection is earmarked for the rapid deployment of portable charging stations in high-traffic urban hubs, including shopping malls, hospitality venues, and transport centers.
Bridging the Charging Gap in the GCC
While the global powerbank-sharing market is valued at $2.8 billion and dominated by mature markets in the Asia Pacific, the GCC remains an underserved landscape with significant growth potential. Ray enters the market to address “low battery anxiety,” a phenomenon affecting a vast majority of smartphone users who rely on their devices for everything from navigation to digital payments. By establishing a distributed network of stations, Ray allows users to rent a portable charger at one location and return it to any other point within the city, providing a seamless solution for on-the-go charging.
Innovation Through Tap-To-Pay Technology
A primary differentiator for the startup is its integration of Tap-to-Pay technology. Unlike traditional services that often require a dedicated mobile application, a stable internet connection, or a lengthy registration process, Ray allows users to initiate a rental in approximately 15 seconds. By simply tapping a bank card or using digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay directly at the station, users can access power even if their phone is already dead. This friction-free experience is expected to significantly increase conversion rates compared to app-only models.
Strategic Expansion and Market Reach
Currently operational in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Ray aims to establish a presence in 2,000 locations by the end of 2026. The company is strategically targeting Dubai’s robust tourism sector—which saw nearly 20 million international visitors in 2025—and its dense network of over 13,000 food service establishments. The hardware is designed for efficiency, featuring fast-charging capabilities that can take a device from 20% to 80% in half an hour. With global IoT connectivity already integrated, the startup is positioned for a swift rollout into neighboring GCC markets.
About Ray
Ray is a Dubai-based tech company specialized in building powerbank-sharing infrastructure for smart cities and hospitality environments. The company provides a network of portable charging stations equipped with IoT connectivity and proprietary Tap-to-Pay hardware, enabling app-free rentals. Ray focuses on delivering convenient, high-speed charging solutions that integrate seamlessly into the urban lifestyle of the MENA region, with a long-term vision of becoming the leading provider of mobile power across the GCC.
Source: Zawya
