Uber launches UberMedics to support healthcare workers in the UAE

Uber has launched UberMedics in the UAE through which it will provide healthcare workers with discounted trips to and from their workplaces in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

UberMedics has partnered with several healthcare providers for this initiative.

In Abu Dhabi, it teamed up with Amana Healthcare, part of the Mubadala group, which offers home healthcare services.

Amana Healthcare will utilise UberMedics through an Uber for Business solution to transport its caregivers to and from the homes of patients.

In Dubai, UberMedics has partnered with Saudi German Hospital and Zulekha Hospital whose medical and essential staff can book the trips to and from their workplaces using the app.

The UberMedic’s initiative is part of Uber’s Move What Matters campaign in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“These are challenging times, the spread of coronavirus has brought a lot of change to the way we live and work, and at Uber we have been looking at how we can support and bring a positive impact to our communities,” said Rifad Mahasneh, Uber general manager in the UAE.

“We want to do our part and support those who have played a key role in protecting us during this pandemic. We are excited to launch UberMedics in the UAE and look forward to working with more partners and to help more healthcare workers, to safely and reliably get to and from their workplaces in these uncertain times,” added Mahasneh.

Earlier in May, Uber said it would shutter its food delivery service in several markets worldwide.

Read: Dubai’s Careem cuts 536 jobs, Uber Eats to stop Saudi operations

Also, Uber’s Middle East subsidiary, Careem, said it would cut 536 employees, or 31 per cent of its staff.

In addition to the job cuts, Dubai-based Careem suspended a portion of its public transit offerings citing the pandemic.

Uber purchased the company for $3.1bn last year.

Read: Uber confirms Careem acquisition for $3.1bn