Uber quits Pakistani market

Ride-hailing app to continue operating in country through subsidiary Careem

LAHORE:

After nearly eight years of trying its luck in Pakistan, the ride-hailing app Uber, has quit Pakistan’s online transportation market, creating further space for its subsidiary, Careem, according to a company statement issued on Tuesday.

This move was largely anticipated by the market experts especially after Uber acquired Dubai-based Careem back in 2019 for $3.1 billion.

“We’ve made the decision to cease operating the Uber app in Pakistan. Our subsidiary brand will continue to operate, with the Careem app offering ride-hailing services across Pakistan and earning opportunities for drivers’,’ said a spokesperson for Uber.

The global transportation company Uber initiated its operations in Pakistan back in early 2016, hence becoming the pioneers in the country in this business.

After acquiring Careem, Uber showed its commitment that both brands would continue to operate in Pakistan online taxi market. However, in October 2022, Uber ceased its operations in five main cities of the country, except Lahore.

On the other hand, Careem continues to expand and is currently available in 10 main cities of Pakistan, namely Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Multan, Faisalabad, Abbottabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Quetta.

The spokesperson further added that the decision was in line with Uber’s global growth strategy, focusing on markets where it had opportunities for sustainable growth.

“Drivers will now have the option to sign up to Careem Rides and continue to operate their independent transportation businesses. We work closely with Careem Rides teams to minimise the impact on drivers that use the Uber app,” he added.

The users of Uber received an email on Tuesday that read: “Difficult decision to no longer offer the Uber app services in Lahore as of April 30.”

It added that in light of this, Careem Rides might reach out to you to check in and sign up. “Please fill the form provided below by May 3, 2024 if you do not want your details to be shared with Careem.”

It further stated: “If you currently hold Uber Cash balance in your Uber Wallet, we will be communicating with you in due course on the process for reclaiming your Uber Cash balance.”