E-hailing platform Bolt launched in UAE; 53 per cent discount on seven rides for Dubai residents and tourists

Bolt, an e-hailing platform, began in the United Arab Emirates on Monday, December 2, offering residents and visitors to the city a 53% discount on seven journeys. With the discount honoring the 53rd anniversary of its establishment, the platform debuted on the day the UAE celebrated Eid Al Etihad, or UAE National Day.

The offer, up to Dh35 off per ride, is available to anyone who download the app until December 15.

Bolt is a global ride-hailing service that operates in more than 600 locations in 50 countries.

Standard rides, XL rides for larger groups, and premium services will be available to users in Dubai at first. Although a date has not been established, taxi services will be offered in the upcoming phase. Through the app, customers can schedule rides, monitor their drivers, and pay.

Over the coming years, the Dubai government intends to have e-hailing apps be used to book 80% of taxi journeys. The launch of Bolt gives the Dubai community an additional "valuable choice" by providing "cross-functional mobility that integrates cars, taxis, micro mobility solutions, and more."

For its introduction in the United Arab Emirates, the site has teamed up with the Dubai Taxi Company (DTC). Through the arrangement, DTC will be able to access a greater portion of Dubai's Dh6 billion taxi and e-hailing market.