UAE Emerges as Global Powerhouse for Smart Mobility Startups
The United Arab Emirates has firmly established itself as a leading global incubator for startups in the smart mobility sector, leveraging its world-class infrastructure and progressive regulatory environment to fuel innovation and attract international investment.
Building on a pioneering and integrated transport ecosystem—featuring extensive metro, tram, and road networks—the UAE has strategically incorporated micro-mobility solutions like electric scooters and bicycles. These options provide efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective first- and last-mile connectivity, linking public transit hubs with commercial, residential, and leisure destinations.
This supportive framework has spurred rapid adoption of e-scooters and e-bikes among the public and fierce competition among service providers. Notable companies thriving in the UAE market include Careem, Uber, Tier, Lime, FENIX, Skurrt, and Arnab, many of which have used the UAE as a launchpad for regional and international success.
Showcasing Success Stories
The UAE’s ecosystem has produced landmark venture stories. A prime example is Careem. Founded in Dubai in 2012, it grew to become a regional giant before its landmark acquisition by Uber for $3.1 billion in 2019, cementing Dubai’s status as a global hub for tech innovation.
Another homegrown success is Arnab, the first UAE-based micro-mobility company to integrate multimodal transport systems. Targeting the MENA region, Arnab operates an on-demand platform for light electric vehicles, aligning with national smart city visions by providing sustainable, affordable, and connected transport solutions.
