UAE a hub of innovation for individual mobility startups

PROACTIVE REGULATION AND SMART INFRASTRUCTURE ATTRACT COMPANIES

- BY JUSTIN VARGHESE Your Money Editor

The UAE has built an extensive transport system that combines modern public infrastructure with individual mobility services, creating a market that attracts startups focused on short-distance, low-emission travel.

Electric scooters and bikes are used to complete short commutes and link residential, commercial and leisure areas with public transport stations. Riders access vehicles through company apps and unlock them by scanning QR codes, allowing them to start trips within seconds. These services are designed to save time, reduce congestion, and give consumers more travel options.

To support this shift, the UAE has introduced regulations that allow startups to operate safely across cities. The country has prepared dedicated infrastructure and issued standards covering operations, safety requirements and fleet deployment.

Local and international firms such as Careem, Uber, Tier, Lime, FENIX, Skurrt and Arnab have rolled out operations across multiple emirates, offering services through smartphone apps with real-time vehicle location, payment options and usage tracking.