Ride hailing app Bolt launched in Dubai with 53% discount

The platform's debut coincides with UAE Eid Al Etihad

Bolt Dubai
Caption: Bolt launches in Dubai on Eid Al Etihad, offering 53% discount and sustainable ride-hailing services. (Photo for illustrative purpose only)
Source: RTA

DUBAI: Bolt, the renowned ride-hailing platform operating in over 600 cities worldwide, has officially been launched in Dubai, marking its UAE debut on 2nd December, coinciding with the nation’s 53rd National Day, Eid Al Etihad.

In celebration, the platform is offering a 53% discount on seven rides, available until 15th December, with a maximum savings of Dh35 per trip.

This launch underscores Bolt’s commitment to integrating sustainable and affordable transportation into Dubai’s urban landscape.

Affordable Mobility

Dubai residents and visitors can access Bolt’s tailored services, including:

  • Bolt Standard: Budget-friendly rides.
  • Bolt XL: Spacious vehicles for groups.
  • Bolt Premium: Luxury travel solutions.

Taxi services will be introduced in a later phase, expanding Bolt’s offerings to ensure a seamless and inclusive mobility ecosystem.

Eid Al Etihad Discount

The 53% discount offer aligns with the UAE’s National Day celebrations, reflecting Bolt’s entry into the market with a customer-focused approach.

Eduard Suchánek, Bolt’s Regional Manager for MENA, shares the UAE launch on National Day reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability and creating cities centred around people rather than cars.

Supporting Dubai’s Vision

Bolt’s arrival aligns with Dubai’s goal of transitioning 80 percent of taxi trips to e-hailing platforms. The company envisions reducing traffic congestion, cutting emissions, and encouraging shared mobility to replace private car ownership.

Eduard Suchánek, Bolt’s Regional Manager for the Middle East and North Africa, emphasised the platform’s mission: “For decades, cities have prioritised cars over people, leading to unsustainable traffic and pollution. Bolt aims to shift this paradigm by building cities that prioritise shared spaces and sustainable transport.”

Partnership with Dubai Taxi

Bolt’s partnership with Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) marks a critical step in enhancing Dubai’s transportation network. Mansoor Alfalasi, CEO of DTC, stated: “The initial fleet includes limousines and DTC vehicles, meeting demand with affordable and luxury options. This collaboration will expand to include taxis and other services, such as e-scooters and car rentals.”

Alfalasi added that this partnership supports Dubai’s growing Dh6 billion taxi and e-hailing sector, positioning Bolt as a valuable addition to the city’s evolving transport ecosystem.

Mansoor Alfalasi, CEO of DTC, says the partnership with Bolt would offer diverse transport options, boosting Dubai’s Dh6 billion taxi sector and enhancing its mobility ecosystem.

Safety and Innovation

Bolt prioritises safety for both riders and drivers. All drivers undergo background checks and training to ensure professionalism.

Features

The app offers advanced safety tools, including:

  • Emergency assistance.
  • Trip sharing and anomaly detection.
  • Speech-to-text reporting and rider-driver unmatching options.

Regional Expansion

Bolt’s UAE debut follows its successful operations in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. The company plans to expand to other emirates, introducing additional services such as deliveries, e-scooters, and car rentals.

Markus Villig, Bolt’s CEO, expressed confidence in the platform’s potential:

“This strategic partnership in Dubai enhances shared mobility, reducing reliance on private vehicles and contributing to environmental sustainability.”

Bolt’s entry into Dubai sets a new benchmark for affordable, safe, and sustainable ride-hailing. By combining technological innovation with customer-centric services, Bolt promises to transform urban mobility in the UAE, starting with a celebratory Eid Al Etihad discount.