Wheels of Change: Meet the Startups Transforming MENA’s Transportation Scene

Imagine traveling from Riyadh to Dubai in minutes instead of hours, or having your groceries delivered underwater by autonomous vehicles? It might sound futuristic, but such ideas now hover near reality thanks to dynamic transportation startups in the MENA region. Transport mobility in the Middle East and North Africa isn't just adapting—it's experiencing nothing less than a complete revolution, fueled by agile, tech-driven startups receiving significant investments and reshaping the landscape.

Here at Arageek, we've tracked the rise of these innovative ventures and their groundbreaking attempts to solve longstanding mobility challenges. Here's our list of standout transportation startups founded within the past two to three years that have successfully secured significant funding in the region, rapidly reshaping MENA's transportation future.

Fenix, launched in late 2021, caught the attention of global investors with a fresh take on micromobility. Addressing growing urban congestion, this UAE-based startup offers sustainable last-mile transport solutions through dockless, electric scooters and e-bikes. Securing $5 million in its first funding round in early 2021, the startup decisively accelerated its scope and visibility, quickly reaching thousands of users in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Fenix scooters have not only reduced carbon footprints but have become a daily necessity, enthusiastically adopted by commuters craving efficiency in bustling city centers.

Founded in late 2018, Trella transformed fragmented supply chains by establishing a digital freight marketplace for trucking that efficiently matches carriers with shippers. Operating primarily out of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, Trella attracted immediate investor attention, amassing over $42 million across multiple funding stages. By digitizing logistics through smart route planning and predictive analytics, the startup enhanced timely deliveries and reduced operating costs for companies—from small businesses to industrial corporations. Could Trella transform itself into the Alibaba of regional freight transportation networks? Investors seem to believe so.

Launched in early 2028, Jeddah-based Telgani earned recognition through its innovative on-demand car rental and delivery application. When travelers previously battled cumbersome rental procedures and endless queues, Telgani provided relief—cars delivered instantly, literally at your doorstep via an intuitive app experience. Within a year, the startup raised over $6 million in Series A funding, aimed at expanding to other Gulf nations. Enthusiastic feedback by customers attracted hundreds of car rental agencies signing contracts amid rapid platform growth, reflecting Telgani’s proficiency at solving customer pain points through technology.

Initiated in early 2016, Dubai's ekar rapidly stood apart among mobility startups by introducing on-demand peer-to-peer car-sharing and short-term leasing services, perfect for transient city lifestyles. By cleverly combining vehicle affordability with accessibility, ekar secured a substantial $17.5 million investment within months of launch. Consequently, they have aggressively expanded operations across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and beyond. No longer do city dwellers grapple with vehicle ownership logistics; instead, they conveniently turn to ekar’s accessible shared mobility solution that perfectly complements urban living.

Q-commerce (Quick Commerce) is hardly revolutionary globally, but Rabbit—founded in Cairo in 2021—pushes the idea to unparalleled extremes, promising 20-minutes groceries delivery (or less!). Utilizing innovative hybrid mobility models combining motorbikes, electric scooters, and bicycles, Rabbit taps into sustainability initiatives alongside extreme efficiency. Raising an impressive $11 million in Pre-Seed funding from global investors, Rabbit swiftly dominated Egypt's capital and plans strategic expansions to other MENA cities. Speed, sustainability, and customer satisfaction blend into an inspiring success story admirable to industry enthusiasts.

Jordan’s KOI Ride, established in late 2015 amidst the pandemic’s disruptions, addressed intercity transport inefficiencies and safety concerns with digitally coordinated bus and van services. Mobilizing a $3 million seed funding, KOI Ride quickly established itself as the preferred transportation choice for thousands of daily commuters across major Jordanian cities. The startup’s focus on efficiency, comfort, and environmental benefits has significantly reduced highway congestion, fostering smarter, more sustainable regional travel. Is KOI Ride a blueprint for scalable intercity transport globally?

Founded in 2016 Dubai-based Udrive quickly attracted customers searching for flexibility in short-term vehicle rental without time-consuming documentation. "Rent by minute" became their unique proposition, attractive for urban commuters, tourists, and transient workers alike. Raising notable investor funding totaling $5 million within months, Udrive rapidly expanded its fleet and customer base. The ability to pick up and drop-off cars at wide-ranging locations across Dubai and Abu Dhabi presented an alluring convenience—embodying futuristic urban mobility realism.

Do electric motorcycles hold the cards to sustainable urban transit? Dubai's ONE MOTO, founded in late 2020, confidently answers: absolutely! Delivering aesthetically pleasing and eco-friendly electric motorcycles aimed at delivery personnel, ONE MOTO seized $2 million principally for its innovative approach. Swiftly adopted across restaurant delivery fleets in the UAE, the startup subsequently expanded its models to Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, enhancing sustainability goals and pioneering genuinely emission-free commuting in bustling MENA cities.

Transportation startups in the MENA region not only secured impressive funding but provided tangible solutions addressing persisting mobility challenges. From smart scooters and rapid deliveries to digitally networked freight platforms, innovation reshapes the transport landscape like never before. At Arageek, we've closely documented these revolutionary startups as they evolve, grow, and magnify their footprints regionally. As the startup ecosystem flourishes, transforming cities becomes increasingly within reach. Which of these startups interests you the most and why? With so many innovative mobility options arising, perhaps it’s time to rethink how we move around—and embrace the future, one transport startup at a time.