Competition in the transport space is intensifying with the launch of Udrive in the UAE.
After downloading the app (Apple and Android), the display shows the cars available in the nearby area. Once you have selected a vehicle it, or a purchasable key card, can then be used to unlock the door.
It gets more hi-tech as a voice instructs you to “please open the glove box and follow the instructions on the keypad” – after which you can obtain the key fob.
Prices are set at a flat 50 fils a minute and capped at Dhs 120 daily, with petrol and insurance included (filling up at Enoc and EPPCO stations). Payments are tracked automatically as you go and charged to your credit card and there is a monthly membership too of Dhs 20.
It looks appealing to visiting business travellers, who can input details of their international licences, and residents needing access to a second car. For now the 30-vehicle fleet comprises Toyota Yaris models, which will rise to 150 cars. Initially bookings can only be made in Dubai, which will be followed by Abu Dhabi and Sharjah/northern Emirates, and thereafter Oman.
Once you have finished, you do not have to call up or drive back to the car hire compound – simply park in any public parking space and walk away.
By Dominic Ellis
