Biz Today: What are the latest trends in mobility solutions transforming urban transportation systems?
Maxim Glagolev: The trends emerging in the regional market for 2024 indicate notable progress in mobility and transportation. Integrated and frictionless travel is gaining traction, with Mobility as a Service (MaaS) becoming a central theme. Various transportation methods are being combined into a single, accessible platform, offering comprehensive travel solutions with minimal interruptions. In the UAE alone, super-apps such as Yango are at the forefront of this transformation, delivering seamless multimodal travel experiences and propelling the country’s MaaS market toward an expected valuation of $3.8 billion by 2029.
Biz Today: How are autonomous vehicles and smart mobility shaping the future of urban infrastructure?
Maxim Glagolev: Autonomous vehicles and smart mobility are reshaping urban infrastructure by significantly improving safety, efficiency, and accessibility. Autonomous vehicles, which can operate without human intervention, are expected to reduce accidents caused by human error, making roads safer for everyone. In the Middle East, projections suggest that there will be over 1 million autonomous vehicles by 2035, with the UAE aiming for 25% of all trips in Dubai to be autonomous by 2030.
Meanwhile, smart mobility initiatives integrate various transportation options, such as ride-hailing, public transit, and last-mile solutions, creating a seamless and connected transportation network. This integration enhances urban mobility and accessibility, allowing cities to respond more effectively to the needs of their residents. Together, these advancements are transforming urban environments into safer, more efficient, and user-friendly spaces.
Biz Today: What role do AI and machine learning play in advancing mobility technologies?
Maxim Glagolev: AI and machine learning are at the heart of next-generation mobility, enabling predictive analytics, real-time route optimization, and dynamic demand management. AI-powered technologies are expected to reduce vehicle idle time by 15% and cut fuel consumption by up to 20%. In ride-hailing, AI-driven systems evaluate traffic conditions and optimise routes, which enhances both passenger and driver experiences. Additionally, it’s estimated that AI will contribute over $15 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with mobility being a key sector.
Biz Today: What makes GITEX an ideal platform for unveiling cutting-edge mobility solutions?
Maxim Glagolev: GITEX acts as a global hub for showcasing groundbreaking mobility technologies by bringing together industry leaders, startups, and government entities. The event is pivotal in fostering collaborations, facilitating networking, and offering a platform for companies to launch new solutions. As the smart mobility global market is projected to grow to $70 billion by 2027, GITEX serves as a critical venue for companies from around the world to demonstrate advancements in AI, autonomous vehicles, and integrated mobility systems, helping shape the future of transportation.
Biz Today: How are Yango’s partnerships driving market growth and creating a competitive edge?
Maxim Glagolev: Public-private partnerships are essential for enhancing urban mobility, as they combine resources, expertise, and technology to foster innovation. These collaborations align government infrastructure and regulatory support with the advanced mapping and ride-hailing technologies utilized by Yango, thereby improving overall connectivity. For instance, we have introduced an advanced taxi booking service in collaboration with the Integrated Transport Centre “Abu Dhabi Mobility” under the Department of Municipalities and Transport. This service integrates city taxis into the Yango app, making it easier for residents and tourists to access transportation. With over 1,500 registered taxis and more than 8,000 trips completed during the trial phase, this initiative exemplifies the success of public-private partnerships in modernising transportation infrastructure.
