News

Wave Bike Is On A Mission To Improve Beirut Commuting

The Dutch-Lebanese startup offers a pioneering e-bike service that aims to reduce traffic congestion in Lebanon’s busy capital.

Published

1 year ago

October 16, 2023

Nour Nasir

Wave Bike

Beirut — and Lebanon in general — is a place where cyclists are a comparatively rare site. Dutch entrepreneur Jan Willem de Coo, along with his all-Lebanese team at Wave Bike, aims to change that and, in the process, transform the daily commute for Lebanese workers.

“Cycling is one of the healthiest, most environmentally friendly, and financially accessible modes of city commuting. It is 18 times less polluting than driving a car and offers freedom of movement, reduces stress, and fulfills the daily physical activity required to live a healthy lifestyle,” explains Joyce Hamadeh, head of communications at Wave Bike.

Wave Bike was launched back in 2021, with a $250,000 investment helping the startup tackle Lebanon’s unique traffic dynamics, road systems, and geographic challenges. Now in full operation, Wave Bike’s fleet of 325 bicycles can be hired for as little as $49 per month.

Wave Bike assembles new additions to its fleet using a team of Lebanese mechanics. The bikes are shipped in from Taiwan and are specced with broader tires to navigate poor road surfaces, along with narrow bars for better maneuverability. Meanwhile, electric motors assist communities on inclines, and a handy center stand makes parking straightforward.

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The bikes are offered on a subscription basis, which, according to Joyce Hamze, also includes safety gear: “Wave offers a monthly subscription, meaning every person will receive a bike of his/her own to keep until termination, and it includes maintenance, helmet, and theft insurance”.

Although Wave’s bikes use electric motors, the batteries consume little electricity. They’re also detachable, so can be recharged in a convenient location. Meanwhile, the company also offers an app that allows riders “the chance to discover the friendliest cycling routes while enjoying special features”, including routing, journey tracking, maintenance support, and access to Bike Functions.

News

Yango Ride Expands Corporate Transport Service In Abu Dhabi

Known as Yango Rides for Business, the solution aims to simplify business travel management for companies operating across Emirates.

Published

16 hours ago

February 18, 2025

Nour Nasir

yango ride expands corporate transport service in abu dhabi

Yango Ride, a global ride-hailing service under the Yango Group, has extended its corporate transport solution, Yango Rides for Business, to Abu Dhabi. Initially launched in Dubai in 2024, the company is now expanding in a bid to simplify business travel for companies operating between both Emirates.

Yango Rides for Business offers a streamlined way to handle employee transportation through a single platform. Instead of dealing with the hassle of prepayments or reimbursement claims, businesses will be able to consolidate all ride expenses under a single corporate account that’s billed monthly. The setup makes it easier to track spending while ensuring expenses remain fully tax-deductible.

A key advantage of the service is its flexibility, allowing managers to set ride permissions and budget limits for employees and clients. Businesses can tailor transport solutions based on team needs — whether for daily commutes or specific travel requirements. Additionally, a dedicated account management system provides real-time analytics, enabling firms to monitor usage patterns and optimize costs.

Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Middle East, highlighted the importance of this expansion, explaining: “Abu Dhabi’s 4.5% economic growth in Q3 2024 reflects a thriving business environment where seamless mobility is essential for productivity. Yango Rides for Business simplifies corporate transportation, reducing administrative tasks and optimizing costs. By providing a centralized solution, we help companies ensure smooth employee travel experiences, supporting efficiency and growth in this dynamic market”.

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Meanwhile, Ivan Kaplunovich, Head of Yango Rides for Business, emphasized the benefits of the service, adding: “Today’s businesses need to balance cost efficiency with flexibility in a fast-changing environment. Yango Rides for Business gives companies a seamless way to manage corporate transportation — from controlling expenses and booking rides to simplifying billing and generating custom reports. With this level of flexibility, businesses can stay focused on growth, innovation, and delivering value”.