Riyadh – Mubasher: Middle East ride-hailing app Careem has launched its bus services in Saudi Arabia for the first time, starting with Jeddah, becoming the first app-based mass transportation bus service in the oil-rich kingdom.
The move follows launching ‘Careem Bus’ in Egypt in December 2018.
The newly launched service is 60+% cheaper than typical ride-hailing operating across Saudi Arabia, the Dubai-based ride-hailing app, which was recently acquired by US-headquartered Uber, said in a statement on Monday.
“Careem BUS will revolutionise mass transportation across Saudi Arabia and bring a new level of sophistication and price to our customers. The 13-seater service has been a huge success in Egypt, easing traffic flows and providing a safe and efficient way to commute,” Hadeer Shalaby, director of Careem BUS, said.
The trip price ranges between SAR 3 and SAR 5 each, depending on the route, with a fleet of 20 buses for providing the service, the statement added.
The new service aims at commuters, and the launch is part of Careem’s non-stop commitment to solving transportation issues, improving mobility, and creating jobs.
Busses will be available between 07:00 am and 08:00 pm, Careem noted.
“Through our superior technology, the app-based service is as seamless as ride-hailing a car, allowing customers to enjoy the benefits of our tech as well as enjoying cheaper travel and reducing traffic on the roads,” Shalaby added.
The company noted that customers will be able to check the availability of the bus via the app, monitor its arrival, and secure a seat.
