Zed ride-hailing platform: How is it redefining mobility in UAE
Image credit: Supplied
In a city defined by ambition, scale, and relentless innovation, Dubai's urban mobility landscape is undergoing a quiet revolution—one that's rooted not in disruption for disruption's sake, but in deep, human-centered design. At the heart of this shift is
Read-
While global mobility giants dominate much of the international narrative, Zed is building something different: a transportation experience that feels unmistakably Dubai—efficient, personalised, empathetic, and future-ready.
'We're not just moving people,' says Badr Al Ghurair, CEO of Al Ghurair Mobility. 'We're helping move Dubai toward a more sustainable and inclusive future.'
Rethinking mobility: Platform built around the rider
Zed's innovation lies not just in what it offers, but in how it thinks. Designed as a next-generation ride-hailing platform, Zed combines a wide variety of transport options—licensed taxis, premium limousines, multi-stop journeys—with a layer of personalization previously missing in urban commuting. Every ride can be tailored to the rider's preferences: cabin temperature, preferred music, interaction level with the driver, and even scheduling recurring rides through its flagship feature, Rhythm.
'Zed isn't a replica of global solutions. We've built this platform from the ground up based on local insight and community feedback,' says Abhinav Patwa, Executive Vice President and Head of Zed.
This approach allows Zed to offer what few others can: a ride that doesn't just take you somewhere—it fits your mood, your schedule, and your daily rhythm.
Personal touch: Mobility that reflects individual lives
The heart of Zed's differentiation lies in its belief that mobility should not be transactional—it should be personal. That philosophy is woven into the platform's DNA. The ability to fine-tune the ride experience gives commuters the autonomy they crave, without sacrificing comfort or safety.
Features like choosing your preferred chauffeur interaction level address a very real need in the region. Many commuters, especially women, report discomfort with unsolicited conversations. Zed meets this need with respectful, subtle functionality that puts control in the rider's hands.
'These aren't just 'nice-to-have' options,' says Al Ghurair. 'They're born from the actual lived experiences of people in Dubai.'
Cultural fluency as a competitive advantage
Zed's legacy in mobility goes back over two decades through Kabi, its parent company's earlier transportation business. This deep operational and cultural understanding has shaped Zed's hyper-local approach—allowing the company to anticipate and address needs that outsiders often overlook.
Case in point: Rhythm, a first-to-market feature that allows users to schedule recurring rides for daily commutes, school runs, and weekly routines. This innovation directly responds to Dubai's highly structured, time-sensitive lifestyle and has been one of the platform's biggest early successes.
This focus on local relevance is not limited to features. Zed's interface, driver onboarding, communication style, and promotional campaigns are all deeply grounded in the values of Dubai's multicultural and fast-paced population.
Zeddies: Drivers at the heart of the experience
Zed doesn't just care for its riders—it deeply values its drivers, whom it affectionately calls Zeddies. These drivers are integral to the user experience and are treated as brand ambassadors and key stakeholders.
Zed offers them performance-based incentives, recognition programs, and real-time support. Drivers also benefit from rider feedback, which helps refine both training and matching algorithms. This symbiotic relationship has helped build a culture of respect, reliability, and pride.
'When drivers feel respected, that energy translates to the rider. That's the kind of ecosystem we're building,' says Patwa.
Technology with a human heart: AI, data, and design
Underpinning Zed's sleek interface is a robust AI-driven backend that powers everything from predictive fleet dispatch to real-time heatmaps and route optimisation. But Zed doesn't stop at efficiency. It's also built to listen.
Through ongoing analysis of customer sentiment, driver feedback, and in-app support trends, Zed evolves rapidly. Every update, every tweak is grounded in user insight, not assumption.
'We treat feedback not as a checkbox, but as our compass,' says Patwa. 'We learn just as much from what people don't say as from what they do.'
Zed's tech stack enables it to make decisions quickly, iterate at speed, and adapt in real time—while keeping empathy at the center of every experience.
Strategic role in Dubai's Smart City 2025 vision
Zed's trajectory is tightly aligned with Dubai's Smart City 2025 vision, which champions sustainability, digital transformation, and inclusive access to services. As an app-only platform, Zed eliminates the friction of legacy systems, enabling seamless integration across transportation, finance, and city services.
The platform also actively contributes to environmental goals. With increasing adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles in its fleet, and intelligent route planning that reduces emissions, Zed is helping reduce the city's carbon footprint one ride at a time.
'We don't treat sustainability as an add-on—it's embedded in our operating model,' says Al Ghurair.
Zed also supports the RTA's e-hailing adoption target of 80 per cent by increasing accessibility and engagement, particularly among younger and tech-savvy commuters.
Turning local challenges into strength
Being a homegrown startup in a market dominated by global players comes with its set of challenges—from brand awareness to user trust.
But Zed has turned these headwinds into tailwinds.
Its agile structure allows for rapid iteration and community-first engagement. Where global apps might require months to implement changes, Zed can roll out updates in days based on local needs.
Moreover, its early reliance on grassroots awareness campaigns and rider loyalty programs has yielded strong brand resonance and user stickiness.
'We didn't just want to get people's attention—we wanted to earn their trust,' says Patwa.
Experience-driven, not transactional
For Zed, user experience isn't just about app design or driver punctuality. It's about building emotional loyalty. From recognising frequent riders and high-rated drivers to launching culturally relevant promotions, Zed wants its users to feel seen and valued.
Transparent pricing models, seamless in-app payment flows, and consistently reliable support are all part of this ethos.
'In Dubai, where excellence is expected, we knew our service had to feel effortless—not just work well,' Al Ghurair noted.
Vision 2027: A lifestyle layer, not just a platform
Zed's roadmap for the next 2–3 years includes several major expansions—both in terms of services and geography. Plans include integrating digital wallets, loyalty programs, in-app rewards, and exclusive brand partnerships that add everyday value beyond just transport.
The platform's modular architecture also ensures that it can scale internationally while retaining the ability to localize meaningfully—be it in Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, or even emerging markets across Southeast Asia.
'We're not just expanding—we're evolving. We want to be the lifestyle layer that enhances every part of your day,' says Patwa.
Looking to the skies: Air mobility in Zed's future plans
While Zed's current focus is on optimizing road mobility, its leadership is keeping an eye on the future of aerial transport. As Dubai pioneers initiatives in air taxis and vertical mobility infrastructure, Zed sees a potential opportunity to integrate this into its multi-modal strategy.
'We're watching this space carefully,' Patwa confirms. 'When the time is right, Zed will be ready—with a clear strategy to help bring the future of urban commuting to life.'
Co-creating the future with users
Central to Zed's success is its belief in co-creation. Users are not just riders; they are partners in shaping the platform. Feedback is integrated into product design cycles, and both riders and drivers are seen as essential to building a better mobility ecosystem.
From beta-testing new features to community surveys and driver town halls, Zed ensures every voice counts.
'The most powerful design tool is dialogue,' Patwa says. 'That's how we stay relevant. That's how we stay human.'
More than a ride: Zed's role in Dubai's mobility renaissance
Zed represents more than just a well-designed app. It stands for a new approach to movement in a city that's constantly in motion. It's a quiet revolution—one that prioritizes people, honors local culture, and builds for the long-term.
By creating a ride-hailing experience that reflects Dubai's identity—its pace, its people, and its potential—Zed is proving that the future of mobility isn't just about going faster or farther. It's about going smarter, kinder, and more meaningfully.
'Mobility is not just about getting from A to B,' says Al Ghurair. 'It's about how you feel along the way.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Tahawul Tech
an hour ago
- Tahawul Tech
Nedaa participates in CCW 2025 to boost partnerships in critical communications
Dubai — Professional Communication Corporation – Nedaa's participation in Critical Communications World (CCW) 2025 underscores the UAE's commitment to drive innovation in mission-critical telecommunications. The high-level delegation was led by H.E. Mansoor Bu Osaiba, CEO of Nedaa, at Critical Communications World (CCW) 2025, in Brussels, Belgium from June 17 to 19, 2025, along with senior executives and technical experts. Nedaa's attendance at CCW 2025 highlights its ongoing commitment to advancing mission-critical communication solutions and building strategic international partnerships. The delegation aimed to explore the integration of innovative technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), to enhance the security, resilience and efficiency of communication networks. 'Our participation at CCW 2025 underscores our commitment to driving innovation in mission-critical telecommunications,' said Osaiba. 'Through active engagement with international industry leaders and innovators, we aim to bring advanced communication solutions back to Dubai, further solidifying its position as a leading global smart city.' During the three-day event, Nedaa showcased its latest developments, explored potential collaborations and engaged in key industry discussions and presentations. The CCW platform provides an ideal setting for exchanging insights on global trends, challenges and opportunities in the critical communications sector. Nedaa's active presence at CCW 2025 reinforces its leadership in enhancing public safety and security through robust and future-ready communication infrastructures. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies, Nedaa continues to set the standard for high-quality critical communication services, playing an essential role in Dubai's ongoing evolution as an innovative, secure, and smart city.
Khaleej Times
3 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Ajman Department of Land and Real Estate Regulation and Ajman Bank sign strategic MoU
The Ajman Department of Land and Real Estate Regulation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ajman Bank, marking a new chapter of collaboration aimed at advancing financial integration and enhancing banking services through innovative and digital-first solutions. The agreement was signed by Eng. Omar bin Omair Al Muhairi, Director General of the Department of Land and Real Estate Regulation, and Mustafa Al Khalfawi, Chief Executive Officer of Ajman Bank. Commenting on the signing, Eng. Omar bin Omair Al Muhairi stated: 'This strategic partnership with Ajman Bank reflects our commitment to advancing the department's digital capabilities and streamlining financial performance. Ajman Bank plays a vital role in supporting our ongoing efforts to build an agile, tech-enabled regulatory environment that responds effectively to the needs of real estate developers and investors.' He further added that through this collaboration, the department will gain access to comprehensive, periodic reports on escrow accounts, enabling greater oversight of real estate development performance. The partnership also paves the way for more seamless financial transactions across stakeholder groups, reducing procedural complexity and delivering future-ready services grounded in speed, privacy, and operational excellence. Mustafa Al Khalfawi, CEO of Ajman Bank, commented: 'At Ajman Bank, we believe in the power of institutional collaboration to elevate the quality of financial services. This agreement reflects our shared vision of trust, integration, and efficiency, and supports Ajman's positioning as a competitive and investment-friendly emirate.' This partnership serves as a model for effective synergy between regulatory bodies and the financial sector, setting the stage for a more stable, transparent, and investor-centric real estate ecosystem in Ajman.
The National
3 hours ago
- The National
Israel-Iran war could slow Gulf investment inflow in 2025, warns World Bank regional chief
Foreign direct investment in the Gulf could slow in the second half of this year as the war between Iran and Israel dents investor sentiment, the World Bank 's director for the region has said. Investors will probably adopt a wait-and-see approach as the conflict that started with Israel's attacks on Iran's nuclear sites on June 12 worsens, Safaa El-Kogali told The National in Riyadh. 'Even if they've started [investing beforehand], they [foreign investors] might hold off until they see things settling down a bit,' she said on the sidelines of a World Bank seminar on Sunday. De-escalation does not seem likely after President Donald Trump ordered the first-ever direct US military attack on Iranian soil earlier that day. The US attacked three Iran nuclear facilities with six bunker-buster bombs and launched Tomahawk missiles. GCC countries had varied in their ability to attract FDI in 2024. The UAE received Dh167 billion ($45.5 billion) in foreign direct investment last year, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said in a post on X on Thursday. This represented a 48 per cent increase, he added. The UAE accounted for 37 per cent of the total foreign investment flows in the region, he said. Saudi Arabia's net FDI inflows in 2024 decreased as a share of GDP, amounting to 1.1 per cent compared to 2.1 per cent in 2023, according to a recent report by the World Bank. Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar saw FDI fall by 7.3 per cent, 2.3 per cent and 0.5 per cent of GDP respectively from 2023 to 2024, it added. Oman saw FDI increase by 2.4 per cent of GDP. This was due to 'prudent fiscal management and diversification efforts' the report said. What is the impact? No one can accurately measure the impact of the escalation on the regional economies, but peace is necessary for economic security and the implications will be broad, Ms El-Kogali said. 'Increasing costs of commodities, of shipments – this will impact a number of industries that import raw material', she said. The conflict will add to inflation, which will affect investors and consumers alike, she added. 'Whenever there is uncertainty … in any region, tourists usually decide not to go,' she said. Travel and tourism made up about 11.4 per cent of the region's gross domestic product in 2024, according to the latest data from the Statistical Centre for the Co-operation Council for the Arab Countries of the Gulf. Oil prices, which have surged since the beginning of the war, will also have an impact on the fiscal balance of Gulf countries that still rely heavily on oil as their primary source of revenue and exports, she said. Brent and WTI surged by as much as 13 per cent in the first few hours of trading after Israel began its military campaign against Tehran. Oil prices posted a third weekly gain in a row despite falling on Friday as the war sparked supply fears. On Friday, Brent, the benchmark for two thirds of the world's oil, fell 2.33 per cent to settle at $77.01 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate, the gauge that tracks US crude, closed 0.28 per cent lower at $74.93 a barrel. Who will feel it more? Gulf countries that have diversified away from oil, such as the UAE, are more likely to resist hits caused by global economic uncertainty, Ms El-Kogali said. This was a key message of the World Bank report, Smart Spending, Stronger Outcomes: Fiscal Policy for a Thriving GCC, released last week, that measured the growth of Gulf economies until June 1. 'I think this report is really timely, because it focuses on what the GCC countries have been doing, and what impact, or the effect, those policies that have been put in place [have had],' said Ms El-Kogali. 'The UAE has started the diversification agenda a while back and currently, with 74 per cent of GDP being from the non-oil sector, puts them in a stronger position. 'The more you diversify, the more you have different opportunities to deal with crises that come your way. When you put all your eggs in one bag, and something happens to that bag, then you're in greater trouble.' Proper investment Ms El-Kogali said that higher oil prices can benefit Gulf countries, depending on how revenue is spent in the non-oil sector. 'We think that as the non-oil sector continues to be strong and growing, with the easing off of the oil production cuts, that the countries of the GCC have good gross prospects in the short and medium term,' she said. 'We really expect growth to reach 4.5 per cent by 2026 driven by the oil and the non-oil.' It takes time to see the returns of investments she added. This growth is particularly important during period of geoeconomic uncertainty. However, 'there may be the risk of spillovers' of the war which will impact the growth trajectory of Gulf nations, she said. Gulf countries have been prudent in the past during crises and 'we saw that implementing fiscal spending during downturns had a positive impact', she said. There is room to do more to further streamline spending and the Gulf countries must prioritise investments that have high returns, and can create jobs during difficult times, that will then sustain growth through economic cycles, she added.
