Uber has introduced a new ride service in Saudi Arabia that allows women riders to be matched exclusively with female drivers. The new option, called Women Drivers, works similarly to UberX and is designed to increase both comfort and employment opportunities for women in the Kingdom. Riders can request immediate trips or schedule rides up to 30 minutes in advance through Uber Reserve. The service will be gradually rolled out nationwide in the coming weeks.
Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 Goals
This launch comes seven years after Saudi Arabia lifted its ban on women drivers and supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to expand women’s participation in the workforce. Uber’s investment in this feature reflects its long-term commitment to empowering women and making mobility more inclusive in Saudi Arabia.
Empowering Women Through Mobility and Economic Independence
Youssef Abouseif, General Manager of Uber in Saudi Arabia, said the new product is part of Uber’s effort to give women more autonomy and better opportunities. He highlighted that this move not only enhances rider comfort but also promotes economic empowerment through flexible job options.
Supportive Community Initiatives for Female Drivers
To strengthen the female driver network, Uber is launching the GigSister event, the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia. This initiative offers a platform for women drivers to connect, exchange experiences, and build a community of support. The event underscores Uber’s focus on community-driven solutions.
Partnership with Alnahda for Skill Development
Uber has also deepened its partnership with the Alnahda Society, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women. Together, they are rolling out capacity-building programs, including financial literacy training, aimed at helping women develop the skills needed for economic independence, such as becoming professional drivers.
Building on Past Female-Focused Initiatives
The new feature expands on Uber’s earlier programs in Saudi Arabia, including:
- Masaruky, a campaign that helped thousands of women obtain driver’s licenses
- Wusool, which provided over 20 million subsidized rides to support women’s mobility
- Women Rider Preference, enabling female drivers to accept only women riders
These efforts have contributed to increasing women’s access to transport and participation in the broader economy.
A Broader Vision for Inclusive Mobility
Through the Women Drivers feature and its continued partnerships, Uber aims to create a more inclusive and supportive mobility environment in Saudi Arabia. These initiatives not only enhance safety and comfort for women but also open new economic paths, aligning with national goals to diversify and modernize the workforce.
