In a significant announcement, Uber has revealed its decision to discontinue its ride-hailing app operations in Pakistan. A spokesperson for Uber confirmed this decision, stating, “We’ve made the decision to cease operating the Uber app in Pakistan.”
However, Uber’s subsidiary brand, Careem, will continue to operate in the country. The Careem app will offer ride-hailing services across Pakistan, ensuring continued earning opportunities for drivers.
This move follows Uber’s acquisition of Careem in 2019 for $3.1 billion. At the time of the acquisition, both companies had affirmed their commitment to maintaining their regional services and independent brands.
In October 2022, Uber had already halted its operations in several Pakistani cities, including Karachi, Multan, Faisalabad, Peshawar, and Islamabad. Instead, it opted to continue operating in Lahore through both Careem and the Uber app.
However, Uber users in Lahore received an email today announcing the discontinuation of Uber app services in the city, effective April 30. The email outlined that ride-hailing services would now be exclusively available through Careem.
For users with existing Uber Cash balances in their Uber Wallets, details regarding reclaiming the balance will be communicated shortly. Additionally, users were offered a 50% discount on five rides with Careem as a transition offer.
Upon attempting to access the Uber app, users in Lahore were greeted with a notification confirming the cessation of Uber’s operations in the city. Instead, they were encouraged to use Careem and avail of the offered discount on rides with a provided code.