Uber (NYSE: UBER) announced on Thursday it has officially completed the acquisition of Careem, an internet platform for ride-hailing that is based in the Middle East. Uber reported that it acquired Careem for $3.1 billion.
Founded in 2012, Careem offers services in mass transportation, delivery and payments through its mobile app. The company’s mission is to simplify and improve the lives of customers, as well as build an “awesome organization that inspires.”
According to Uber, Careem co-founder and CEO Mudassir Sheikha will continue to lead the Careem business, which will report to a board made up of three representatives from Uber and two representatives from Careem. Careem and Uber will operate their respective regional services and independent brands. Speaking about the acquisition, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, stated:
“I’m looking forward to seeing even more innovation from Careem, as they continue to operate independently under their current leadership. Working in parallel, our two platforms will be able to build upon the unique strengths of each, to the benefit of drivers, riders, and the cities we serve across the greater Middle East.”
Sheikha added:
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for Careem. The journey that we started almost a decade ago to simplify the lives of people in the greater Middle East is far from over. Joining forces with Uber accelerates that journey as we become the region’s everyday super app. We are excited to take Careem to new heights alongside Uber, who appreciates the significant regional opportunity, is supportive of our values and culture, and believes in the purpose that drives us.”