Uber has announced its decision to discontinue its ride-hailing app in Pakistan, marking a significant shift in its operational strategy. A spokesperson for Uber conveyed this decision, stating, “We’ve decided to cease operating the Uber app in Pakistan.”
However, the spokesperson reassured users that Careem, Uber’s subsidiary brand, would continue its operations, providing ride-hailing services across Pakistan while offering earning opportunities for drivers through the Careem app.
The move comes after Uber’s acquisition of its competitor, Careem, in 2019 for $3.1 billion. Despite the acquisition, both companies had initially planned to maintain their independent brands and regional services.
Earlier in October 2022, Uber had already halted its operations in several Pakistani cities, including Karachi, Multan, Faisalabad, Peshawar, and Islamabad. Operations in these cities were transitioned to Careem, while Uber continued to operate in Lahore through its app.
However, users in Lahore received an email today notifying them of Uber’s decision to discontinue its services in the city effective April 30. The email informed users that ride-hailing services would be seamlessly provided through Careem, and they were given the option to sign up and request trips via the Careem app.
Furthermore, Uber assured users that any remaining Uber Cash balance in their Uber Wallet would be addressed through a communicated process. Additionally, users were offered a 50% discount on five rides with Careem as a gesture to ease the transition.
Upon attempting to access the Uber app, users in Lahore were greeted with a message stating, “Uber no longer in Lahore,” along with instructions to avail the Careem discount offer using a specific code, LHR50.