RIDE-HAILING
In major urban hubs such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, demand continues to grow for mobility services that are safe, affordable, and accessible. This shift reflects a broader redefinition of how people live, move and connect. Unlike many global markets where regulation or saturation can hinder progress, Pakistan’s ride-hailing sector holds immense potential. The current environment presents a unique opportunity to localise solutions and shape the next chapter of urban mobility.
In this context of rapid change, ride-hailing platforms have introduced a range of fare models, giving people greater control over how they ride and pay. Among these, the peer-to-peer model has resonated strongly, as it enables drivers and passengers to negotiate fares directly – offering a more transparent and flexible experience.
This approach is particularly relevant in Pakistan, where affordability for passengers and fair earning opportunities for drivers are equally important. Companies are also expanding their services to address rising demand for corporate travel and premium ride experiences, tailored to evolving mobility needs.
The vision goes beyond ride-hailing. A broader digital ecosystem is emerging, centered on the Super App concept, which integrates ride-hailing, delivery and digital payments into a single platform for both individuals and businesses. Financial empowerment also remains a key focus, with access to microloans and financial tools aimed at fostering long-term economic stability for drivers.
In a fragile economic climate, ride-hailing platforms are helping keep the wheels of opportunity turning. They offer flexible income to thousands of drivers and support a growing digital ecosystem
Looking ahead, the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is becoming a vital part of building cleaner, sustainable mobility systems. inDrive is contributing to this shift through a combination of local and international initiatives. In collaboration with domestic startups, petrol motorcycles are being retrofitted into electric bikes -- a cost-effective and scalable solution. These vehicles are equipped with swappable batteries, supported by a growing network of 21 battery swap stations in Islamabad.
For cars, a collaboration with a Chinese EV manufacturer is enabling the rollout of 50 electric vehicles each in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. These vehicles are offered at discounted prices, with flexible leasing arrangements and bundled support for charging, maintenance and insurance – addressing several of the common barriers to EV adoption in ride-hailing.
In a fragile economic climate, ride-hailing platforms are helping keep the wheels of opportunity turning. They offer flexible income to thousands of drivers and support a growing digital ecosystem that fuels side gigs and freelance work. That’s why policymakers must view ride-hailing not just as a matter of convenience, but as a key pillar of economic resilience, social inclusion, and digital transformation. With the right kind of support, whether through infrastructure or forward-looking regulation, this sector can unlock even greater value for the country.
The road ahead for Pakistan’s mobility sector is promising. With the right mix of innovation, public-private collaboration and policy support, the country has the potential not only to align with global trends but to lead its own mobility transformation.
The writer is the country head of inDrive Pakistan.