Ride-hailing and delivery service Careem has announced its plan to roll out electric delivery bikes on the streets of Dubai by the end of this month. In collaboration with the Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai, the initiative is part of Careem’s commitment to providing more environmentally friendly transportation options.
While Careem did not disclose the initial number of electric motorbikes, Sami Amin, Senior Director of Operations for Careem Bike, revealed that the goal is to have 1,000 electric bikes operational in Dubai by the end of the next year. The move aligns with the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) objectives for net-zero emissions, supporting the ongoing COP28 climate change conference hosted in Dubai.
Traditionally relying on combustion engine motorbikes for its delivery services, Careem’s shift to electric bikes is driven by the need to reduce both operational costs and environmental impact. The company aims to lower delivery costs, potentially leading to savings for customers, while concurrently contributing to a reduction in the carbon footprint.
Sami Amin highlighted the benefits of transitioning to electric bikes, emphasizing cost savings for delivery riders. Careem riders, referred to as captains, typically bear the cost of fuel. The company estimates that electric bikes will offer riders at least a 15% monthly saving. To facilitate the transition, riders can subscribe to a monthly service allowing unlimited battery swaps at various stations across Dubai.
This move towards carbon-neutral transport aligns with Dubai’s recent commitment to achieving a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030. Furthermore, it supports the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative, a Dh600 billion ($163.37 billion) plan aimed at investing in clean and renewable energy sources over the next three decades. The UAE was the first Gulf country to pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
As the shift towards electric bikes gains momentum, it is expected to significantly impact the lives of delivery riders, reducing their monthly expenses. Adam Ridgway, founder of OneMoto, a manufacturer of electric bikes in the UAE, highlighted that riders using electric bikes can save up to 46% per month compared to traditional combustion engine bikes.
