TBT Desk: Ride-sharing company Uber will contribute Tk 5,500 crore to Bangladesh's economy in 2024, according to a study conducted by international research firm Public First.
The findings were unveiled at an event in Dhaka, where the "Uber Economic Impact Report Bangladesh 2024" was officially released.
The report highlights Uber's significant role in the country's economy, particularly through its Moto and Auto services, which alone contributed Tk 920 crore. It also found that 82 percent of Uber users rely on the service for commuting to work, saving an estimated 11 million work hours annually-equivalent to Tk 94 crore in economic value.
Uber has also had a substantial impact on employment, with drivers earning 42 percent more than in alternative job opportunities. The ride-sharing platform created 21.4 lakh job opportunities in 2024 and generated Tk 290 crore in the tourism industry in 2023. Passengers reportedly benefited from Uber services amounting to Tk 66,900 crore.
Safety remains a major factor in Uber's popularity, particularly among female passengers.
According to the study, 95 percent of women cited safety as their primary reason for choosing Uber, while 89 percent of all users consider it the safest option for returning home at night.
Additionally, 78 percent of respondents believe that without ride-sharing services like Uber, safe travel at night would be significantly more difficult.
Speaking at the event, Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) Chairman Mohammad Yasin praised Uber's contribution to the country's transport sector, stating that the platform has played a remarkable role in addressing urban mobility challenges.
Uber Bangladesh's Country Head Nashid Ferdous Kamal expressed pride in the company's positive impact and reaffirmed Uber's commitment to improving services in the country.
The report was presented by Amy Price, Head of Tech, Media & Telecom at Public First. Following the presentation, a panel discussion was held where policymakers and industry experts discussed the future of transportation in Bangladesh.
