Tunisian bike taxi startup gains momentum
Tunisian bike taxi startup IntiGo has picked up momentum, having raised over $300,000 in funding from angel investors, reported MENAbytes.
The startup had raised $300,000 three months ago when it launched.
Founded by serial entrepreneur and investor Bassem Bouguerra and an operations executive Nebil Jridet, IntiGo allows users to book bike rides in Tunis (Tunisia’s capital) that are reportedly 20 to 30 percent cheaper than a regular taxi.
The bikes (or scooters) that IntiGo has on its network are owned by it. The drivers, however, are not on IntiGo’s payroll. They rent the scooters from IntiGo and also pay 20 percent commission on every ride. IntiGo also makes money by allowing brands to advertise on its scooters.
The startup has been able to facilitate over 11,000 rides in January alone, with the small network of 50 scooters that it has, IntiGo’s co-founder and CEO Bassem Bouguerra told MENAbytes.
Radisson sees RED in Middle East
The Radisson Hotel Group is painting the Middle East RED with plans for its first Radisson RED in Dubai this month. To be located in Dubai Digital Park, Dubai’s first smart city, Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis will feature 104 rooms, eight suites and 59 apartments.
The RED brand reaches out to the millennial nomads with features including social hubs throughout the hotel, contemporary designs for its rooms and meeting spaces. It tags art, music, design, fashion and “real urban energy” in its identity.
Arab countries show strong demand for ITB Berlin, Oman is partner country
Arab countries have a strong showing at the upcoming ITB Berlin.
According to its organisers, Saudi Arabia is making an impressive debut occupying a 450 sqm, two-storey pavilion. Egypt is also back as a tourism destination and will be well represented by hotels and resorts; Morocco’s displays have also grown by 25 percent.
This year, Oman is the official partner country of the event and the sultanate will be part of the opening ceremony on the eve of the show, taking audience on a tour of its 5,000-year history. Oman will be represented for the first time in two halls.
The organisers say the coronavirus outbreak has had limited impact on the show. To date, only two Chinese exhibitors have cancelled. “The safety of our visitors and exhibitors has the utmost priority. We are in permanent contact with the public health authorities and will take all recommended measures as and when they become necessary,” said the organisers.
ITB Berlin is itself taking measures. There will be additional medical specialists and first responders and English-speaking staff on the grounds and the sanitary facilities are being cleaned and disinfected at more frequent intervals, it added.
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Featured image credit: Getty Images
