Careem, the Uber of the Middle East that thrives on women's car-driving ban

Careem Networks operates in 13 countries and 80 cities, from North Africa to the Middle East. Its largest market is Saudi Arabia, where women still can not drive cars and taxis, run by men, are considered unsafe.

Created five years ago and based in Dubai, Careem Networks operates in 80 cities in 13 countries between North Africa and the Middle East. It is a company that is expanding and offers a transport service similar to Uber, but adapted to the specifics of these regions and cultures, where it is market leader.

"It has achieved better results in countries with inadequate public transport options and where much of its population can not drive by law, or simply do not drive," says Bloomberg Businessweek. Not by accident, its largest market is Saudi Arabia, where women still can not drive.

Although they do not drive, Saudi women can use taxis driven by men. The problem is that these taxis are expensive and are not always safe. That is why four out of five Saudi women have already gone to the Careem service, reports the magazine. The company's goal is to "provide a safe, carefree trip for women, especially in Saudi Arabia,” said Chief Executive Mudassir Sheikha.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is in the meantime preparing to relieve the restrictions imposed on women, particularly at the level of driving. But Sheikha believes this change will make Careem more appealing, not less, through greater freedom for women. Both Careem and Uber are already recruiting female drivers for their services, anticipating the entry into force of the new law.

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