- Ride-sharing platform drives gig economy opportunities for women in the region
By : Amen Kadry
Over 76% of women who drive using the Uber app in Egypt and Saudi Arabia said they chose to start driving via the platform to become financially independent and to support themselves and their families, according to survey data of Uber female drivers in the two countries. The data from the survey responses portrays an optimistic view of female economic empowerment through the ride-sharing technology platform.
According to the survey, over 70% of women driving on the Uber app are between the ages of 26 and 45. In Egypt, 26% of the entire female population falls within this age bracket, making it a significant economic contributor. The survey also showed some optimistic findings, with more than 46% successfully increasing their financial stability and more than 72% said they plan to continue driving using the Uber app.
“Women in Egypt are playing an increasingly vital role in providing for their families, especially during the current economic climate. The government has launched several initiatives and mandates that are aligned with empowering women, as key players in accelerating the country's economic growth”, said Youssef Abouseif, General Manager, Uber Egypt. “At Uber, we’re proud to be creating more economic opportunities that are suitable for women’s needs, and flexible enough to enable them to choose when, where, and for how long they drive, and to support their financial independence goals.”
Earlier this year, Uber launched #SheDrives, a program that helps connect, grow and empower the community of female drivers who use the platform. From this program, stems several initiatives around the world to help remove barriers that women earners face. These include activities to uplift women through mental health support, motivation and self-promotion, as well as self-defence sessions.
“Two years ago, I decided to start driving on Uber. This decision was perceived as very bold from the people around me but I knew that this was exactly what I needed at that time. After losing my mother and son I spent four years grieving but I decided that it’s time to support myself emotionally and financially. Driving using the Uber app gave me an opportunity to meet new people in the most flexible way and for that I plan to continue driving using the Uber app,” said Somaya, one of the heroes who drives on Uber. “I want to tell every woman out there, mother, grandmother or a fresh graduate, you can do anything if you set your mind to it,” she added.
Egypt's Vision 2030 places a strong emphasis on the economic empowerment of women and digital transformation, and Uber believes in the immense potential women have and the crucial role technology plays to empower them. Therefore, Uber strives to break down barriers, promote financial independence, and foster a culture of empowerment, creating an inclusive environment where women can succeed to support themselves and their families.
