A better alternative to Uber Vietnam when you want to travel

Before leaving the market in 2018, Uber Vietnam had a brief but controversial experience in Vietnam, providing dependable and economical transportation to tourists as well as locals.

Vietnam now offers a variety of transportation options, including classic taxis and more recent competitors like Grab, Gojek, and Be. In this article, we’ll look at Uber’s past in Vietnam, the reasons it left, and the country’s present transportation system.

Additionally, you can also choose other means of transportation in Vietnam here.

The Rise and Fall of Uber Vietnam

Due to its affordability and convenience, Uber Vietnam quickly gained popularity after entering the Vietnamese market in 2014. However, the business left the market in 2018, giving Grab ownership of its Southeast Asian operations. Uber left Vietnam due to fierce competition from Grab and regulatory difficulties in the country.

uber grab

Two of Uber’s hurdles were adapting to the Vietnamese market, which valued motorbike taxis, and managing the country’s complicated regulatory environment. It’s possible that Uber’s failure in Vietnam was also influenced by the company’s worldwide development strategy and disruption of the established taxi business. However, due to Uber’s short existence, other ride-hailing companies were able to enter the market.

Alternative Transportation Options in Vietnam

Despite the fact that Uber is no longer available in Vietnam, several other ride-hailing applications have stepped in to fill up the gap.

Grab, which offers car, motorcycle, and delivery services, is the main competitor in Vietnam after purchasing Uber’s businesses in Southeast Asia.

Another growing ride-hailing app is Go-jek, which is especially popular for motorbike rides.

Traditional taxis are still a common mode of transportation in Vietnam, in addition to ride-hailing apps. In significant cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, taxi businesses like Mai Linh and Vinasun are well-established and provide services comparable to ride-hailing apps.

Even for non-Vietnamese speakers, using regular taxis and ride-hailing applications is simple in Vietnam. The majority of ride-hailing applications allow users to pay with cash or a credit card and offer an English-language option.

Traditional taxis can be called on the street or reserved using a hotline or app for a particular taxi business. The name or address of your location should be written down in Vietnamese because some taxi drivers might not speak English.

Many transportation options are accessible even though Uber Vietnam may no longer be an option. While traditional taxis offer a trusted and familiar alternative, ride-hailing apps like Grab and GoJek provide convenience and affordability.

Travelers may easily traverse Vietnam’s transportation system and reach their destinations securely and effectively by becoming familiar with these options.

If you want to driving by your own, motorbike rental is a good choice.

The current ride-hailing apps in Vietnam.
The current ride-hailing apps in Vietnam.

Tips for Using Ride-Hailing Apps in Vietnam

Even for new users, using ride-hailing applications in Vietnam like Grab and GoJek is relatively simple. Here are some pointers for creating an account and making a ride reservation:

1. Download the app: Grab and GoJek can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play Store.

2. Sign up: Create an account by providing your phone number, email address, and payment information.

3. Set your pickup location and destination: Enter your current location and where you want to go.

4. Choose your ride: Select the type of ride you want, such as a car or motorbike, and confirm your booking.

5. Track your ride: You can track your ride in real-time and communicate with your driver through the app.

To ensure safety when using ride-hailing apps in Vietnam, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Verify the driver and vehicle: Before getting into the car or on the motorbike, ensure the driver and vehicle details match what’s shown on the app.

2. Share your trip details: Let someone know where you’re going and share your trip details, including the driver’s name and license plate number.

3. Sit in the back: For added safety, wear your seatbelt in the back seat.

4. Avoid distractions: Avoid using your phone or other distractions during the ride, and stay alert to your surroundings.

To avoid common issues with ride-hailing apps in Vietnam, here are some tips:

1. Check the price: Ensure you understand the pricing structure before booking a ride, especially during peak hours or special events.

2. Confirm the pickup location: Double-check the pickup location to avoid confusion or delays.

3. Be patient: Traffic in Vietnam can be unpredictable, so be patient if there are delays or detours during your ride.

By following these tips, travelers can use ride-hailing apps in Vietnam safely and confidently and enjoy the convenience and affordability of this popular transportation option.

To move between two domestic tourist destinations in Vietnam, you can use Vietnam airport services.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Alternative Transportation Options

other traditional taxis and ride-hailing apps have benefits and drawbacks regarding transportation options in Vietnam.

Car ride-hailing apps like Grab and GoJek offer convenience, affordability, and various services beyond just car rides. They provide choices for cashless payments and are also conveniently accessible through a smartphone app.

However, there have been reports of safety issues and scams involving ride-hailing apps in Vietnam, and they might be subject to surge pricing during busy times or specific events.

For people who would instead not utilize ride-hailing applications, traditional taxis provide a comfortable and trustworthy alternative. They also accept cash payments and are well-established in significant cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

However, they might cost more and provide lower convenience and usability than ride-hailing apps.

Comparison of Ride-Hailing Apps and Traditional Taxis in Vietnam

Several factors must be considered when comparing ride-hailing apps and traditional taxis in Vietnam.

Ride-hailing apps, accessed via a smartphone app, provide a more extensive range of services, such as motorcycle trips and food delivery.

Traditional taxis are more dependable and provide a more familiar and comfortable ride.

Ride-Hailing Apps and Traditional Taxis in Vietnam
Ride-Hailing Apps and Traditional Taxis in Vietnam – Source: taxibamien

Regarding pricing, ride-hailing applications like Grab and GoJek are often less expensive than regular taxis, especially for shorter rides. However, ride-hailing apps may be subject to surge pricing during peak hours or special events, making them more expensive than traditional taxis.

Pros and Cons of Using Ride-Hailing Apps in Vietnam Compared to Uber

While Uber is no longer available in Vietnam, ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek provide comparable services. They can be compared to Uber in terms of their advantages and disadvantages.

The affordability and ease of utilizing ride-hailing applications in Vietnam are two advantages. They also offer services beyond car rides, such as food delivery and e-wallet services.

There are, however, some drawbacks to utilizing ride-hailing applications in Vietnam. There have been reports of safety problems and scams, and surge pricing during peak hours or special events can make rides more expensive.

Furthermore, some users may need help communicating with drivers who do not speak English.

Embark your enchating adventure on Vietnam roads.

Conclusion

The rise and fall of Uber Vietnam opened the door to other transportation options, including ride-hailing apps like Grab and GoJek and traditional taxis. Travelers should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these options and prioritize safety by verifying the driver and vehicle and sharing trip details.

Overall, Vietnam offers a range of transportation options that can enhance any travel experience. By trying out different options and exploring the country, travelers can discover new places and experiences they may not have otherwise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there Uber in Vietnam?

A: No, Uber is not available in Vietnam anymore. However, Grab acquired Uber’s Southeast Asian operations in 2018, and Grab is now the dominant ride-hailing service in Vietnam.

Q: Why did Uber fail in Vietnam?

A: Uber was up against Grab, which had already established itself as Vietnam’s dominant ride-hailing service. Grab also has better relationships with local governments and a larger footprint in the country.

Q: How to use Uber in Vietnam?

A: In Vietnam, Uber is no longer available; travelers can use Grab. To use Grab in Vietnam, download the Grab app and establish an account on your smartphone. After that, you may choose your pickup and drop-off locations and the service you want (such as GrabCar, GrabBike, or GrabTaxi) and confirm your ride. You can pay for your ride with cash or a credit/debit card, depending on your preference. The Grab app is available in English and Vietnamese, making it simple for locals and visitors.