Prime Highlight
- The UAE is attracting startups by offering modern infrastructure, supportive policies, and high user demand for smart mobility solutions like e-scooters and bicycles.
- Leading companies such as Careem, Tier, FENIX, Lime, and Arnab are expanding nationwide, showcasing the UAE as a regional gateway for innovation.
Key Facts
- Abu Dhabi and Dubai have successfully implemented app-based scooter rentals and cycling networks, with Dubai recording over one million shared e-scooter trips in 2022 without major accidents.
- Abu Dhabi plans to expand its cycling network to over 3,000 kilometres by 2026, supported by smart monitoring systems to maintain safety and track conditions.
Background
The United Arab Emirates is becoming a global hub for startups that provide smart mobility solutions, backed by modern infrastructure, supportive policies, and strong demand from users.
The country has built an advanced transport system that combines roads, bridges, metro, and tram networks with new individual transport options such as electric scooters and bicycles. These solutions help people travel short distances fast, safely, and cheaply, especially between homes, offices, shops, and public transport stops.
Electric scooters and bikes have become popular because they are easy to use and environmentally friendly. Users can find them through mobile apps, locate a nearby vehicle, scan a QR code, and pay digitally. Authorities have supported their growth by setting clear safety rules and building dedicated tracks.
This environment has drawn many local and international startups. Companies like Careem, Tier, FENIX, Lime, and the UAE-based Arnab have grown their services across the country. Many firms see the UAE as a gateway to grow across the Middle East and beyond.
Careem stands out as a leading success story. The company, founded in Dubai in 2012, grew quickly, and Uber bought it in 2019 for $3.1 billion. Its success proves that the UAE strongly supports innovation and entrepreneurship.
Abu Dhabi started licensing app-based scooter rentals in 2019 and now allows riding in several key areas, including Reem Island, Yas Island, and the Corniche. The emirate also plans to expand its cycling network to more than 3,000 kilometres by 2026.
Dubai rolled out its e-scooter project in stages and started full operations in 2022. The Roads and Transport Authority recorded over one million shared e-scooter trips that year without any serious accidents. In 2025, Dubai introduced a smart system to monitor and maintain cycling and scooter tracks.
These efforts show how the UAE is creating a safe, smart, and startup-friendly mobility system.
