WEBDESK: Careem has announced it will shut down its ride-hailing operations in Pakistan effective July 18, 2025, bringing an end to its years-long presence in one of its largest and most active markets.
Careem is a Dubai-based super app which currently operates in over 70 cities, across 10 countries in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
Careem offers services including ride-hailing, food and grocery delivery, bicycle rentals, and digital payments.
Founded in 2012, Careem had aimed to build “the everything app” for the greater Middle East, simplifying mobility and commerce in the region.
Over the years, the company has created income opportunities for more than 2.5 million Captains, served over 50 million customers, and become a launchpad for regional talent and entrepreneurship.
In 2019, Careem was acquired by Uber for $3.1 billion, cementing its position as the largest tech unicorn in the Middle East.
The acquisition brought in key talent and resources that fueled Careem’s growth.
In 2023, e& invested $400 million into Careem’s Super App, enabling deeper expansion into non-ride verticals like food delivery and payments.
Careem’s decision to exit the ride-hailing market in Pakistan follows Uber’s earlier retreat from the country.
In October 2022, Uber shut down its operations in major cities including Karachi, Multan, Faisalabad, Peshawar, and Islamabad.
By mid-2023, Uber had also quietly ceased operations in Lahore, its last remaining city in Pakistan, without issuing prior notice.
At the time, the company stated that the move aligned with its global strategy of focusing on markets with long-term growth potential.
To ease the transition, Uber offered affected riders a promotional discount on Careem rides, using the code LHR50 for 50 per cent off their next five trips.
As Careem also exits the ride-hailing business, Pakistan will have to forgo two of its largest transport-based apps-based services within just less than three years: one of the biggest transformations to the transportation system in the urban areas of the country.
Careem has also bid farewell to its users through a heartwarming email, which states
“Hi xx,
After many memorable years, Careem services will no longer be operational in Pakistan as of 18th July 2025.
This was not an easy decision to make. We’re deeply thankful for every booking you made with us – from everyday errands to big life moments. You’ve been at the heart of our journey.
If you have a remaining balance in your Careem Wallet, we’ll be in touch soon with clear instructions on how to reclaim it.
Careem Care will remain available until 18th September 2025, to help you with any pending issues or questions you may have.
Thank you for using Careem 💚”
The existing market players of Careem include mostly Bykea and InDrive.
Bykea is a local company that is used to provide cashback, parcel delivery, and bike rides.
With its distinctive fare negotiation through which passengers and drivers are able to come to terms in terms of prices, Indrive is gaining grounds as a competitor.
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