Uber holds “positive” talks for Abu Dhabi return

Ride hailing firm Uber has held “positive conversations” with transport authorities in Abu Dhabi about returning to the city, according to reports.

Uber and rival Careem abruptly withdrew from the UAE capital in August 2016 following a regulatory crackdown.

Read: Uber, Careem services down as drivers detained in Abu Dhabi

Careem resumed services in December after reaching a deal to work with the transport regulator and has since introduced lower fare options despite rules that mean ride apps have to charge 30 per cent more than regular taxis.

“We are in positive conversations with TransAD; our ultimate goal is to resume operations with an affordable service,” an Uber spokesperson told The National.

Reuters previously reported talks were taking place in May.

Read: Uber in talks to resume Abu Dhabi services as Careem reduces fares

Careem is currently expanding its offering in the city with a new “curated route” option for tourists, plans to provide water taxis and an agreement for the government to use its technology to manage congestion expected to be rolled out next year.

Like in neighbouring Dubai, Abu Dhabi taxis could also become available via the Careem app, a company spokesperson was quoted as saying.

Read: Dubai’s RTA begins taxi booking service via Careem app

Separately Uber is said to be continuing talks to acquire Careem with the hope of becoming the dominant platform across the Middle East and North Africa.

Read: Uber continues talks to buy Dubai’s Careem – report