Latest news with #Careem
CNN
7 hours ago
- Business
- CNN
Oil prices climb, Emirates makes a splash in Paris, and Careem exits Pakistan
In this week's business headlines from the Middle East, global energy markets react to conflict in the region, Emirates showcases its next-gen A350 at the Paris Airshow, and Careem calls it quits in Pakistan after nearly a decade.
Time Business News
9 hours ago
- Time Business News
Safe & Comfortable Travel 24/7
If you're planning a spiritual journey in Saudi Arabia, the Makkah to Medina route is one of the most sacred and frequently traveled paths for Muslims worldwide. While many pilgrims take buses or high-speed trains, taxis offer a unique combination of comfort, flexibility, and privacy—making them a popular choice for families, elderly travelers, or those on a tight schedule. The road distance between Makkah and Medina is approximately 450 km (280 miles). The journey usually takes around 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the number of stops along the way. Saudi highways are well-maintained, and the route is smooth and safe, with plenty of service stations, mosques, and rest stops. Convenience: No need to wait for public transport. Taxis pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. No need to wait for public transport. Taxis pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. Comfort: Air-conditioned, clean vehicles are common. Air-conditioned, clean vehicles are common. Flexibility: Stop anytime for prayer, food, or sightseeing. Stop anytime for prayer, food, or sightseeing. Privacy: Ideal for families, couples, or elderly pilgrims who need a peaceful ride. Budget-friendly options like standard sedans (Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata) are available for individuals or small groups. If you're traveling in a group of 4–7 people, vans like Toyota HiAce or GMC Yukon are ideal. For a premium experience, you can book luxury SUVs or sedans like Lexus or Mercedes. These often come with bilingual drivers and extra services like snacks and Wi-Fi. Standard Taxi: SAR 400–600 (~$110–$160) SAR 400–600 (~$110–$160) Family Van: SAR 600–800 (~$160–$213) SAR 600–800 (~$160–$213) Luxury SUV: SAR 1,000+ (~$266+) Vehicle type Number of passengers Luggage size Pick-up and drop-off locations Peak travel seasons (e.g., Ramadan, Hajj) Agree on a fare before starting the ride Use a translation app if language is an issue Booking via hotel often ensures fair pricing Websites and apps like Careem, Uber, and specialized Umrah taxi providers allow online booking with upfront pricing. Most hotels in Makkah and Medina can arrange a taxi for you and may include trusted drivers in their network. You can also walk to nearby taxi stands, but make sure to agree on the price first and choose a licensed driver. Careem: Reliable and app-based booking Reliable and app-based booking Uber: Available in major Saudi cities Available in major Saudi cities Sawary Transport: Known for intercity trips Known for intercity trips Zamzam Transfers: Specializes in Umrah travel Most drivers speak basic English, but Arabic is preferred. Using Google Translate or a booking service helps eliminate miscommunication. Some taxis accept cards, but cash (Saudi Riyals) is king. Always keep small denominations on hand. Look for cars with official taxi license plates. Ask for driver ID if you're unsure. Best Time to Leave: Early morning (5 AM – 8 AM) or after Isha prayer to avoid traffic and extreme heat. Early morning (5 AM – 8 AM) or after Isha prayer to avoid traffic and extreme heat. Avoid: Friday mid-day due to Jumu'ah prayer and weekend traffic. Most drivers stop at rest areas for prayer, snacks, and fuel. for prayer, snacks, and fuel. You'll pass through deserts, small towns, and scenic rock formations. Some taxis offer water, dates, or even charging ports for phones. Feature Taxi Bus Train Comfort High Medium Very High Flexibility Very Flexible Fixed schedule Fixed schedule Cost High Low Medium Privacy Yes No Limited Travel Time 4.5–6 hrs 6–7 hrs 2.5 hrs (train) If you're looking for comfort and privacy, a taxi is worth every riyal. Snacks and water Light jacket or shawl Power bank and phone charger Prayer mat and Qur'an Wear loose, breathable clothes Sit in the back for more legroom Don't hesitate to ask for a break Always wear your seatbelt Share your trip with a friend/family Don't fall asleep without securing your belongings 'We were a family of 6 and booked a van through our hotel. The driver was kind, stopped for every prayer, and even guided us through duas for the road!' — Fatima from UK 'Tried Uber and it was smooth. Bit pricey, but totally worth it for the comfort.' — Ahmed from South Africa The journey from Makkah to Medina is more than just a road trip—it's a spiritual migration that connects you to the heart of Islamic history. While there are many ways to get there, taking a taxi offers unmatched comfort, flexibility, and peace of mind. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or in a group, make sure your ride enhances your journey, not complicates it. 1. How long is the drive from Makkah to Medina by taxi? About 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and number of stops. 2. Is it safe to travel by taxi in Saudi Arabia? Yes, especially if you use licensed taxis or book through trusted apps or hotels. 3. Can I share a taxi with other pilgrims? Yes, some services allow cost-sharing with fellow travelers. 4. Are female travelers safe in taxis? Yes, but it's best to use trusted drivers or travel in groups if possible. 5. Do taxis stop for prayer breaks? Absolutely! Most drivers are very accommodating for prayer and rest stops. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Mid East Info
a day ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
In the Presence of H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri MAJRA National CSR Fund signs MoU with Careem to support delivery captains during summer months
More than 60,000 delivery captains expected to benefit from mobile rest stations, hydration kits, and health checkups ● Initiatives open to all delivery captains in the UAE Dubai, UAE –June 2025: MAJRA National CSR Fund announces a signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Careem, in the Presence of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of Majra's Board of Trustees. The MoU aims to enhance joint cooperation in Careem's Annual Summer Initiatives to support delivery captains during the UAE's hottest months. This year's campaign expands to offer a broader range of support across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, benefitting over 60,000 delivery captains from different platforms. These initiatives include the deployment of air-conditioned mobile rest areas and sustainable, solar-powered rest stops. These stations are equipped with temperature control, free Wi-Fi, drinking water, and refreshments. Strategically placed across high-traffic locations, they offer captains a safe and comfortable place to pause and rehydrate during shifts. Mudassir Sheikha, CEO and co-founder of Careem, commented: 'Summer in the UAE is challenging for those on the road, especially delivery captains. Our summer initiatives were designed to provide tangible, on-the-ground support to make it easier and safer for captains to earn. This year we're proud to partner with MAJRA National CSR Fund to expand these benefits across the UAE.' Sarah Shaw, CEO of MAJRA National CSR Fund, said: 'The Annual Summer Initiatives is an exceptional campaign that will offer on-the-field support and ensure safety with distinguished services for over 60,000 delivery captains, who face numerous challenges during the hottest times in the summer season. Furthermore, the signing of the MoU with Careem is in line with the 'Year of Community' and is part of MAJRA's initiatives to promote all projects and campaigns that are launched across the UAE.' Careem is distributing Captain Kits – with towels, water bottles, and hydration supplements. In partnership with Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD), Careem will provide free on-ground health screenings at PAD premises throughout the summer. Captains will also benefit from added hydration and cooling services including free ice cream, fresh fruit juices, and cold water dispensers stationed across key delivery zones. About Careem: Careem is building 'the everything app' for the greater Middle East, making it easier than ever to move around, order food and groceries, manage payments, and more. Careem is led by a powerful purpose to simplify and improve the lives of people and build an awesome organisation that inspires. Since 2012, Careem has created earning opportunities for over 3.5 million captains, simplified the lives of over 75 million customers, and built a platform for the region's best talent to thrive and for entrepreneurs to scale their businesses. Careem operates in over 70 cities across 10 countries, from Morocco to Pakistan.
Hi Dubai
a day ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
MAJRA National CSR Fund Signs MoU with Careem to Expand Summer Support for Delivery Captains
In a move to safeguard delivery captains during the UAE's scorching summer months, the MAJRA National CSR Fund has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Careem to boost its annual summer support initiatives across four emirates. The agreement, formalized in the presence of Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of MAJRA's Board of Trustees, aims to enhance conditions for more than 60,000 delivery riders in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah. This year's campaign will see a significant expansion in services, including mobile, air-conditioned rest stations and sustainable, solar-powered cooling hubs. These stops will provide free Wi-Fi, drinking water, and refreshments at high-traffic delivery zones. Careem CEO and co-founder Mudassir Sheikha emphasized the importance of the initiative, calling it 'tangible, on-the-ground support' designed to help captains work more safely and comfortably in extreme heat. In addition to rest areas, Careem is distributing 'Captain Kits' containing towels, water bottles, and hydration supplements. Through a partnership with the Pakistan Association Dubai, delivery captains will also receive free health screenings throughout the summer. MAJRA CEO Sarah Shaw said the initiative aligns with the UAE's 'Year of Community,' reinforcing MAJRA's commitment to supporting on-the-ground projects that promote welfare and resilience among frontline workers. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Business Recorder
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Careem to suspend decade-old Pakistan service
KARACHI: After more than a decade of operations, Careem announced on Wednesday that it will shut down its ride-hailing services in Pakistan, effective July 18. Mudassir Sheikha, CEO of Careem, announced the decision via a post on the professional networking platform LinkedIn. 'It is with a heavy heart that I share this update: Careem will suspend its ride-hailing service in Pakistan on July 18.' Sheikha described it as an incredibly difficult decision, citing a combination of factors- challenging macroeconomic reality, intensifying competition, and global capital allocation made it hard to justify the investment levels required to deliver a safe and dependable service in Pakistan. 'In the end, the Careem Rides team had to make this tough call.' Careem, a multinational ride-hailing company founded in 2012, entered the Pakistani market in October 2015. In 2019, it was acquired by Uber for $3.1 billion, solidifying its position as the largest unicorn in the Middle East and opening new avenues for startups across the region. Sheikha said that despite numerous challenges, Careem's Pakistan team remained brilliant and fearless-bold, determined, and driven by a mission to create millions of job opportunities for captains across the country. 'They (Careem Team) did not just build a service that millions of Pakistanis relied on to move and earn, they delivered significant public goods: digital infrastructure, trust, regulation, capability, confidence - all of which paved the way for countless local and global digital ventures to take root in Pakistan', he added. He said that while ride-hailing is sunsetting, Careem's journey in Pakistan continues in a different role. Careem Technologies (the spinout building the Everything App) will continue to build from Pakistan for the region. He mentioned that nearly 400 colleagues across all functions (including engineering) are building the Everything App and its ecosystem of verticals (food/ grocery delivery, payments, and more). This presence is only set to grow, with over 100 open roles and the expansion of our Falcon/ NextGen program that brings in top graduates from Pakistani universities and gives them hands-on training on building highly scalable systems, he added. 'Pakistan is in Careem's DNA-our first line of code was written here, and the country remains a rich source of innovation and talent for us. Our commitment to Pakistan remains strong and I sincerely hope to bring Careem's services back to the country in the future', CEO Careem said. He also paid tribute to those heroes who built Careem in Pakistan under the bold leadership of Junaid Iqbal. Setup in 2012, Careem operates in over 70 cities across 10 countries, from Morocco to Pakistan and creating earnings for over 2.5 million Captains. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
