Uber Exits Côte d’Ivoire After Six Years of Operation
Uber has officially ceased operations in Côte d’Ivoire, marking the end of its six-year presence in Abidjan. The ride-hailing giant initially launched in the West African nation in 2019, making it their first foray into the West African market. However, as of September 24, 2025, the service is no longer available in the city.
Challenges in a Competitive Landscape
Uber’s departure highlights a common issue faced by international tech companies expanding into Africa. Standardized global business models often struggle to compete against local rivals who possess a deeper understanding of cultural nuances and regulatory frameworks. While Uber didn’t explicitly state the reasons behind the exit, sources suggest a combination of factors contributed to the decision. These include regulatory obstacles, high operational costs, and intense competition from companies like France’s Heetch and Dubai-based Yango, both of which are government-approved and now dominate the ride-hailing space in Abidjan. Furthermore, Uber’s payment system, offering weekly payouts, reportedly clashed with driver expectations in a market more accustomed to daily cash payments.
Ultimately, Uber’s experience in Côte d’Ivoire underscores the importance of localization and adaptation when operating in diverse markets. The competitive ride-hailing environment in Abidjan has proven difficult for Uber to navigate, leading to its exit and further solidifying the position of its locally attuned competitors.
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