Uber to apply for Hong Kong licence by end of October as Macau rides surge

Uber plans to apply for a licence to operate in Hong Kong by the end of October, according to its general manager in the region. The move comes as the Hong Kong government seeks to regulate ride-hailing services in the city. Uber revealed that Hong Kong residents are the largest user base among its customers in Macau, months after the company relaunched its service in the gaming hub following a long absence.

Estyn Chung, Uber's general manager in Hong Kong, stated that the company is working to meet the government's nine key requirements for ride-hailing platforms, including demonstrating a history of lawful service provision in cities with populations over 7.5 million and handling over 100,000 daily orders in at least two locations.

The US-based company has continued to support drivers in Hong Kong through financial aid for exams and tests, one-on-one consultations, and information sessions to maintain service quality during the transition period. In Macau, Uber is collaborating with approximately 1,000 metered taxi drivers each month on average, with completed trips in July surging more than five times compared to its February launch.

During significant events, Hong Kong riders may account for up to one-third of Uber's business in Macau, showcasing the service's appeal to both local residents and tourists from other areas. Uber highlighted that 23% of its customers in Macau are from Hong Kong, with a peak single-day share of 37% during singer Keung To's three concerts in June.

The company also announced the launch of its WeChat mini program feature for Macau, enabling mainland Chinese travellers to hail a taxi without downloading a separate app. This move comes ahead of the October "golden week," when Uber expects a surge in usage from mainland Chinese tourists, who make up over 70% of Macau's visitors.