Yango, a technology firm based in Dubai, has announced the expansion of its Arabic-first AI assistant, Yasmina, initially launched in the UAE. This intelligent assistant and smart speaker has gained substantial popularity by claiming the top position in the UAE’s Amazon smart speaker category. Following this success, Yango plans to introduce Yasmina to additional markets across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Egypt, reaffirming its commitment to improving Arabic voice technology.
Arabic-First Technology for Local Needs
Yasmina is specifically developed for Arabic-speaking households, enabling natural conversations in both regional Arabic and English. The device can manage daily routines through voice commands and functions as a smart home hub, controlling devices like lighting and air conditioning. Moreover, it connects seamlessly to Yango Play, the group’s entertainment application that offers access to over a million songs, stories, and personalized recommendations based on user preferences. This localized approach addresses the rising consumer demand for tailored voice technology across the Middle East.
Consumer behavior shows a growing interest in smart home devices, making the timing for Yasmina’s expansion ideal. The Middle East’s smart home market is projected to reach approximately $24.73 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate nearing 20%. According to a 2025 study, 65% of users in the UAE and Saudi Arabia prefer Arabic as their primary language when using voice assistants, with the Khaleeji dialect being particularly favored. This suggests a clear market opportunity for products like Yasmina that are designed with local dialects in mind.
Innovative Features for Personalization
Yasmina boasts numerous features aimed at enhancing personal household use. One of its standout capabilities is Voice Print, which recognizes different family members and customizes responses accordingly. The device also introduces a Whisper Mode for quieter interaction during nighttime. Available in four models—Lite, Mini, Midi, and Max—Yasmina’s pricing begins at $68, making it available to families across various income brackets. This diverse lineup caters to different spaces, from children’s bedrooms to larger living areas.
Maysam Azzam, Yango Group’s Head of Communications, highlighted the demand for an assistant that understands the everyday language and lifestyle of Arabic-speaking families. “Yasmina was designed from the ground up to cater to Arabic households, covering language dialects, routines, and cultural contexts,” she stated.
Widespread Retail Availability
Customers can purchase Yasmina through major retailers across the UAE, including Amazon UAE, Carrefour, Noon, Sharaf DG, Virgin Megastore, and Jumbo. The product has even received endorsements from prominent figures, enhancing its credibility and market appeal. Azzam emphasized the significance of developing an assistant that reflects local realities rather than merely adapting existing models. “Families quickly adopt an assistant that resonates with their cultural identity,” she remarked, anticipating similar success in future markets like Jordan and Egypt.
For those interested in exploring Yasmina’s features and availability, they can visit the official website, which provides comprehensive information about the product line. Yango’s commitment to expanding its innovative AI technology showcases its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of Arabic-speaking populations in the region.