Ride sharing platform Careem will be introducing a new, lower pricing structure in Abu Dhabi “within a matter of weeks”, according to Bassel Al Nahlaoui, Careem’s Gulf managing director.
Careem – along with rival Uber – launched in the UAE’s capital in 2013, but was forced to suspend services in 2016 due to concerns from the emirate’s regulatory authorities that they were in violation of rules governing private car hires and limousines.
In 2016, Careem returned to the market, albeit without its lowest price services.
“We have just received word from the regulator that we expect to be able to introduce a new, lower price structure for Careem services in Abu Dhabi within a matter of weeks,” Al Nahlaoui said. “Our mission has always been to make ride-hailing accessible to the masses and to everyone across the wider Middle East and improve the lives of people living within.”
According to Al Nahlaoui, Careem’s offerings in Abu Dhabi will include an economy, business and max (minivan) service, with similar pricing structures to what is currently available in Dubai. Additionally, Careem will offer a “Careem Kids” service, and a special car type for physically disabled passengers.
“This represents a new era for us in Abu Dhabi, the second city in our footprint of over 90 [cities] and we will now go full throttle to ensure we have the best coverage of the city and an optimum overall customer experience,” Al Nahlaoui added.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to fully embrace our potential in the capital after five years of operating here.”
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