How Careem’s mobility solutions are empowering communities

Q. Careem Rides has experienced significant growth over the years. What key factors have contributed to the company’s growth in the UAE and the broader Middle East region?

Since its launch in 2012, Careem has always understood that our region’s rich cultural tapestry demands a personalised approach. Our mission to simplify lives remains our guiding principle, ensuring that our services resonate with diverse customer needs.

Our deep understanding of local markets has been instrumental in our success, and this has been a key part of our journey since our launch in the UAE and across the region. We tailor our offerings to meet specific needs, from Wusool and Madinah Tour in Saudi Arabia to School Rides and Careem Kids in Dubai.

Beyond simply existing in the market, we are leveraging innovative technologies to advance customer experience, and we’re dedicated to providing reliable and accessible services.

From ensuring availability to offering in-app support, we’re committed to meeting our customers’ needs.
We understand the importance of reliability. From booking to arrival, we strive for a seamless experience. Over the past decade, we’ve simplified commutes and built trust, becoming the go-to choice for millions across the region.

Q. How are Careem Rides’ partnerships with local businesses and regulators contributing to market expansion and competitive advantage?

Our local partnerships are less about gaining a competitive edge and more about fostering a thriving community. By collaborating with local businesses and regulators, we aim to enhance the experience for both our customers and captains. Together, we can address specific community needs, strengthen the mobility ecosystem, and create a positive impact on our cities.

We’ve partnered with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) to introduce several innovative mobility solutions. School Rides provides a tailored, reliable commute for students, while Careem Kids offers safe and convenient transportation for families with child seats. Our joint venture, Hala Rides, launched in 2019, combines Careem’s technology platform with the RTA’s industry knowledge to deliver affordable, everyday commutes and reshape urban mobility in Dubai.

Similarly, we’ve joined with Saudi Arabia’s Madinah Development Authority to introduce the ‘Madina Tour’ service, supporting the tourism industry while providing flexible income opportunities for our captains. Furthermore, our ongoing partnership with the Saudi Railway Company has led to increased availability of Careem pick-up and drop-off points at various train stations, creating a seamless travel experience. These are just a few examples of how our partnerships with regulators and cities have enabled us to launch innovative products and services that millions of people rely on for their daily commutes.

Q. How will customers’ evolving preferences and expectations, such as convenience and affordability, shape the future of ride-hailing and smart mobility?

To deliver valuable products and services, it’s essential to understand the evolving needs and preferences of our customers. This requires a deep understanding of local nuances, economic structures, and commuting habits. In a future where multimodal commuting is the norm, customers increasingly seek convenient, affordable, and tailored ride-hailing options.

Careem Rides has responded to this demand by introducing innovative solutions such as SchoolRides, Office Rides, and Hala, which offer discounted bundles, affordable taxi services, and flexible hourly booking options.

While offering affordable services is essential, we also prioritise a seamless and convenient customer experience. From the moment a customer books a ride to the moment they reach their destination, we strive to provide a smooth and personalised journey. By tailoring the app experience to individual preferences and continuously introducing innovative solutions, we aim to simplify everyday life for our customers.

Q. How do you envision the future of mobility, especially in the Middle East region? What role do you see Careem Rides playing in this transformation?

The future of mobility in the GCC region is rapidly transforming, fueled by the integration of smart technologies, the growing popularity of electric vehicles, and a heightened emphasis on sustainability. We believe that these advancements will further underscore the importance of collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors to develop and implement innovative mobility solutions.

Similarly, population growth in cities across the Gulf region means there’s an increasing demand for mobility solutions that offer greater reliability, convenience and ease. As Careem Rides, our focus will remain on utilising our technology to continuously innovate and bring locally catered offerings that align with these changes and the evolving everyday commuting needs of millions across the region.

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