Dubai, UAE – December 19, 2021 – We might be biased, but we think the Middle East is home to some of the most vibrant cities in the world, both to live in or for tourism. From the pyramids on the outskirts of Cairo, the stunning cityscape of Dubai through to the as-yet-unexplored parts of Saudi Arabia, the Middle East is one of the most beautiful parts of the world.
Turns out, we’re not alone in thinking this!
Comparing trips from 2019 to 2021, Uber can reveal that the world agrees, with cities in the Middle East placing in the top 10 most popular EMEA cities for Uber Riders.
Most Popular EMEA Cities Among Uber Riders
Coming in at number five, is Dubai, UAE, home to the tallest building in the world as well as some of Uber’s most frequent riders. The majority of Dubai residents are also vaccinated, so the Emirate is well on its way to recovery from the pandemic. It’s no surprise that Dubai makes this list in 2021, since it plays host to Expo 2020 Dubai, an event which brings the world together to address some of the biggest priorities facing the world today. With dedicated pick-up and drop-off areas, Dubai’s residents and international visitors can walk straight into Expo 2020 Dubai without worrying about parking or directions.
Also making the list is Cairo, Egypt, placing at number eight. A bustling, modern metropolis meets relics of the ancient world in this dynamic and exciting city, making it the ideal city to live in or visit for a short break.
This isn’t the first time Cairo has broken records at Uber. Leveraging its tech, Uber launched the global-first mass transport solution on the streets of Egypt with Uber Bus to provide a low-cost option while also reducing congestion and battles over parking spaces.
Other new cities that made the Top 10 list include Athens, Greece; Kyiv, Ukraine; and Algarve, Portugal while cities such as London, England; Madrid, Spain; and Paris, France held firm in the Top 10.
Most Popular International Cities Amongst Uber Riders
Zooming out to the international stage, Dubai, UAE retains its position as one of the most popular cities amongst Uber Riders, coming in at number 10. One of only two new cities to join the Top 10, Dubai joins international hot spots like New York City, Miami and Toronto..
The top three cities these international visitors hail from is neighbor-country, Saudi Arabia, followed by the UK and the US. As we welcome back the glorious Middle Eastern winter weather, Dubai becomes a prime vacation destination, welcoming tourists who are looking to escape the frosty cold in favor of sun, sand and sea.
Cities that Travelled the Most
From the United States to the Netherlands, people love to use the Uber app when they travel. No matter where you go, the Uber app always stays the same, providing peace of mind, without having to worry about how to get around.
Residents and citizens of Saudi Arabia seem to agree as they are one of the countries that use the Uber app most while travelling abroad. Joining other EMEA citizens in the Top 10 such as those based in France, Germany and the United Kingdom, people from Saudi are taking Ubers all over the world.
With millions of rides requested over the app in the Middle East alone , Uber is there for you, whether for your daily commute or while you’re out exploring the world.