Moving in a new direction

The mobility industry has been evolving rapidly thanks to technology and changing consumer preferences, says Richard Sikkel, CEO of UAE-based Massar Solutions

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The UAE’s car leasing business has transformed significantly, thanks to the emergence of new tech disruptors. Can you give us an overview of where it stands at present?

The convergence between mobility and technology has been around for a number of years. New players get the advantage of a clean slate and tech-focused implementation where larger ones have traditionally been slower to move. We are now seeing that the larger global mobility firms have geared up to implement very advanced technologies for their customers, which is supported by their size, scale, supply chain and distribution capabilities. Unique and compelling value propositions will become the key to unlock value going forward. Technologies, services and concepts that make life easier and more affordable for customers, at scale, is the need for matured markets. The UAE is in a similar position where the combination of technology and mobility services is on the cusp of delivering substantial value to customers. Massar’s Pay Per Kay product, as an example, is one of those products which was one of the first in the region to integrate various technologies to offer a unique value proposition. This product’s technology lifecycle is still in its infancy and one can expect some new exciting features over the next 12 months, specifically designed for improving the customer service proposition.