Uber helped commuters in Bangladesh save an estimated 1.1 million hours in travel time in 2024, a benefit valued at Tk 94 crore in monetary terms, according to an economic impact report released on Monday.

The report, compiled by UK-based research firm Public First, highlighted Uber's overall contribution of Tk 5,500 crore to the country's economy last year.

It also underscored Uber's role in facilitating efficient transportation, improving earnings for driver-partners, and boosting tourism.

Uber's Moto and Auto services alone accounted for Tk 920 crore in economic activity, reflecting the increasing demand for affordable and convenient last-mile connectivity.

Uber has emerged as a key source of income for many, with driver-partners earning 42 percent more annually compared to alternative jobs.

The platform also played a role in the tourism sector, contributing Tk 290 crore to the industry in 2023.

Additionally, the report found that a large portion of Uber's riders rely on the service for their daily commute. According to the report, 82 percent of riders use Uber to travel to and from work.

Furthermore, 81 percent believe booking an Uber is more convenient than hailing a ride on the street, and 86 percent consider the app an important transportation innovation.

Safety and accessibility also remain significant factors in Uber's growing popularity. The report found that 95 percent of female riders prioritise safety when choosing Uber, while 89 percent consider Uber the safest way to travel home.

Another 87 percent of riders believe Uber has made city travel easier, while 78 percent say finding a safe way to travel at night would be difficult without ridesharing services.

The report was presented by Amy Price, director and head of practice for tech, media, and telecom at Public First.

Mohammad Yasin, chairman of the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority, said the government of Bangladesh is committed to bolstering infrastructure and economic development.

Yasin acknowledged the significant service Uber provides to the public but noted persisting concerns regarding its pricing and service quality.

He pointed out that many contracted drivers often refuse to accept rides via the app and recommended stricter monitoring to address such issues.

Nasheed Ferdous Kamal, country head for Uber Bangladesh, said, "Our 2024 economic impact report highlights Uber's significant contribution in transforming transportation and creating work opportunities in the country. We are proud of the meaningful impact we have made on the country's economy and remain dedicated to reshaping the mobility landscape, connecting communities, and creating livelihoods."

The report launch was followed by a panel discussion.

During the discussion, Fahmida Khatun, executive director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue, emphasised the need for Uber to take a leading role in fostering environmentally friendly initiatives, such as zero-carbon emissions and the adoption of electric vehicles, to build a sustainable transport sector in the country.

She advised Uber to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to drive these efforts forward.