Uber announced on Tuesday that it will discontinue its ride-hailing app in Pakistan and direct users to its subsidiary, Careem, for continued service.
A spokesperson from Uber conveyed, “We’ve decided to cease operating the Uber app in Pakistan. Our subsidiary brand, Careem, will continue to provide ride-hailing services across the country and provide opportunities for drivers.”
Uber had acquired Careem for $3.1 billion in 2019, stating at the time that both companies would operate as separate brands within the region.
Previously, in October 2022, Uber ceased operations in Karachi, Multan, Faisalabad, Peshawar, and Islamabad, choosing to serve these cities through Careem instead while continuing to operate in Lahore via its app.
However, in a recent email to Lahore users, Uber announced that it would discontinue its services in the city effective April 30. The company assured users they could seamlessly transition to Careem for ride-hailing needs.
The email also mentioned, “Careem Rides may contact you for signing up. If you prefer not to share your details with Careem, please complete the form provided by May 3, 2024.”
The company promised to outline reimbursement steps for users with an existing Uber Cash balance soon. As a gesture of goodwill, Uber offers Lahore users a 50% discount on their first five rides with Careem using the code LHR50.
When Lahore customers attempted to use the Uber app, they encountered a notification stating, “Uber no longer in Lahore,” and were redirected to use Careem with the provided discount code.
