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About Jelsat

In a region rich with culture, history, and stunning destinations, Jelsat emerged as a solution to a common problem: the fragmented experience of booking accommodations in the Middle East. Jelsat’s mission was clear—to simplify the process of finding unique local stays like Istrahas, chalets, and camps, all while personalizing the journey for each traveler.

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My Role

As the Research UX & UI Designer, I led user interviews, competitor benchmarking, user journey mapping, and the design of intuitive experiences for Android, iOS, and web platforms. I collaborated closely with developers, stakeholders throughout the product lifecycle.

🎯 The Problem: Travel isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Booking travel in the Middle East often feels like assembling a puzzle. Users bounce between Google Maps, Instagram, Airbnb, and WhatsApp groups just to plan one trip. There's a gap between global platforms' generic approach and the specific needs of regional travelers.

The Opportunity

We wanted to design an app that wasn’t just another booking tool—but a local guide, a personal assistant, and a trustworthy host all rolled into one.

Goals

1. Shift focus from consumer to traveler – Understanding people as explorers, not just bookers.
2. Make local communities discoverable – Highlight what makes each destination special.
3. Build trust and transparency – Offer safety, pricing, and visual content up front.
4. Simplify travel planning – Consolidate search, inspiration, booking, and planning.

🔍 User Research

Methodologies