Careem, the region’s leading internet platform with ride-hailing, deliveries and payments services, has launched operations in Mosul, Iraq.
Initially offering ride-hailing services only, Careem plans to roll out its full suite of services in line with its vision of becoming the region’s everyday super app. Having been in Iraq since January 2018, Careem has identified local market nuances and has developed solutions to overcome them – from the need to complement Google Maps’ work, Careem has mapped over 15,000 locations and has created a ‘lighter’ booking option allowing customers to book a ride via Whatsapp.
In a market where transportation infrastructure is lacking, Careem will provide tech-enabled mobility options and will offer new, flexible earning opportunities to the local economy as well as direct employment for Careem employees in the market. Careem’s entry into the market will also provide stimulus to the advertising economy, with the majority of Careem’s marketing efforts to be spent in traditional media.
Mohamed Al-Hakim, GM of Careem Iraq said: “Careem is a purpose-driven company, and simplifying and improving lives across the region is what drives us. Iraq is going through a period of immense transformation and change right now, as infrastructure is rebuilt and life begins to return to normal. When Careem enters a market, we provide a wealth of new income opportunities as well as mobility solutions that make it easier for people and things to move around a city. We hope that our entry will spur other companies to follow suit.”