Uber laying off ‘about 10%’ of workforce worldwide

Uber, a ride-hailing giant with operations in more than 70 countries, announced on Wednesday that it will be laying off around 10% of its global workforce, CEO Dara Khosrowshahi stated in a message to employees. The company, which employs roughly 34,000 people, is undergoing significant organizational changes aimed at simplifying the platform, reducing coordination delays, and increasing efficiency.

Khosrowshahi explained that the reduction in size will lead to clearer ownership, faster decisions, and more time spent building rather than coordinating. The company's leaner structure will enable Uber to invest more in growth areas. Uber's decision to lay off staff comes after it shut down its business in Nigeria and Uganda, and earlier this year in Tanzania.

The layoffs are expected to save Uber approximately US$1.75 billion, which the company plans to reinvest into growth areas. Khosrowshahi emphasized that the reorganization would result in fewer managerial layers and employees who are closer to the CEO, aiming to streamline operations and accelerate investments. Additionally, Uber intends to concentrate job opportunities in key hubs, with global teams primarily based in New York and San Francisco.