Global Ride-hailing Insights

What drives global ride-hailing app adoption?

Ride-hailing apps have become a regular part of daily life globally, offering a level of convenience that public transportation often struggles to match. For a majority of global users (31.6%), the decision to use these services isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about feeling secure and staying comfortable, especially when heading to events or gatherings at night.

Beyond safety, the flexibility of ride-hailing apps allows many users to rely on them for spontaneous trips. In addition to these benefits, 27.6% of users say they use ride-hailing apps to avoid traffic—a smart strategy in cities where rush hour traffic can easily turn a short trip into a frustratingly long one.

How often do global users use ride-hailing apps?

The majority of users rely on ride-hailing services a few times a week or a few times a month—a significant slice of the market engaging regularly with these platforms. Meanwhile, about 9.8% are near-daily users—a sign of deep integration into their routines. Ride-hailing services are not just an alternative to taxis—they’re a flexible, adaptive solution to the complexities of urban living, meeting needs that range from safety and convenience to cost-efficiency and accessibility.

What are the top-of-mind ride-hailing apps globally?

Uber continues to dominate the global ride-hailing landscape. Its widespread presence and name recognition give it a significant edge over competitors. Bolt follows as a strong regional leader, while Grab maintains its strength in Southeast Asia. Interestingly, a small group of respondents admitted they couldn’t name a ride-hailing company off the top of their heads—a reminder that while the market leaders are well-known, there’s still room for growth and differentiation.