How e-scooters could be a key part of GCC’s transport mix

Not owning a car in the UAE wasn’t always a viable option some years ago.

But as public transportation channels grew steadily, it offered people an alternative to car ownership. This trend has gathered steam in the face of service providers introducing micro-mobility to the mix.

Micro-mobility offers a host of advantages: Residents can hop onto a single passenger vehicle to cover a shorter route in lieu of more crowded transport systems; it can help alleviate the pressure on public transport infrastructures; and attend to a growing pool of people who require mobility access.

Several companies are leveraging the urban potential in the local and regional transportation space to introduce micro-mobility services. Berlin-headquartered Tier began its e-scooter service in Dubai last year, following its earlier launch in Abu Dhabi.

E-scooters, featuring swappable battery technology, can be accessed via its mobile app. Riders can either use ‘pay-as-you-go’ offered at Dhs1 per minute of usage or opt for a subscription model. The micro-mobility provider expanded to Doha, Qatar earlier this year, servicing a network of more than 90 cities across 11 countries. Meanwhile, micro-mobility operator Fenix launched in Abu Dhabi in November last year. Every ride is insured, with personal accident, third-party liability and product liability insurance.

Fenix has also introduced a private e-scooter subscription service in the UAE capital starting at Dhs100 per week or Dhs200 per month. It also offers a lease-to-own product – those subscribing to the service for 24 months will own the scooter after that. Since its launch, the brand has grown across the region and is currently operational in five cities including Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah in the UAE, Doha in Qatar and Manama in Bahrain.

What next?
By 2050, the world’s population is expected to grow to nearly 10 billion. In the face of escalating growth and aging transport systems, mobility across urban settlements will be tested. Technologies that help introduce innovative mobility solutions will accelerate the adoption of sustainable, alternative transportation methods, and help lead global communities to a cleaner, safer future.