Russian tech-driven Yango Group launched Yasmina, its human‑like bilingual AI assistant, in Oman. The service, tailored to GCC users, is embedded in the Midi, Mini and Lite smart speakers, Zawya reported on July 30.

Aimed at blending cultural relevance with smart tech, Yasmina speaks Arabic and English. It offers prayer times for Muscat, plays Surahs, sets Adhans and even suggests traditional dishes such as Omani Shuwa. Moreover, it supports family trip planning to destinations like Wadi Shab and provides Hijri calendar dates.

Yasmina is built on YangoAI’s enhanced large language model. It delivers context‑aware, natural‑language interaction and offers educational storytelling, translation between Arabic and English, and interactive content for all age groups.

Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head at Yango Middle East, commented, “AI technology is transforming how people live… we are proud that our ecosystem is expanding with …services designed to enhance the lives of Omani citizens.”

ITHCA Group, Oman Investment Authority’s tech arm, stressed its support for the initiative, noting that Yasmina aligns closely with national goals and will help families and students “discover the capabilities of AI in ways that feel familiar and practical.”

Yango’s expansion into Oman also included acquisition of Otaxi, the local mobility platform. Working in collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Technology, Communications & IT, Yango plans to upgrade Otaxi’s operations and lift its service to global standards.

Regionally, Yango has expanded its ecosystem to include ride‑hailing, maps, delivery, advertising and warehouse robotics. Yasmina was first introduced across the Middle East in late 2023, and from May 2024 features in the Yango Play super‑app launched in several GCC markets.

Across the Gulf and wider region, Yango has introduced its AI into smart speakers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia and launched services such as Yango Maps and Yango Ads.

In North Africa and sub-Saharan markets, the group continues to expand its ride-hailing and delivery operations, reaching Morocco, Zambia, Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique. The firm has facilitated more than 630mn rides globally and supports over one million drivers.