I’ve been using ride hailing apps – Uber, Careem and Ousta – ever since they’ve launched their services in Egypt. I think I became an expert. Below are a few tips:
Always make sure you place the pin on the exact pick up location. Don’t request a ride while you’re on the toilet seat unless you manually move the pin to your pick up location
If the driver is an elderly guy, it helps if you give him a call. Many of them are not used to using the map. Cherish the fact that this good man is trying to make ends meet, make it a bit easier for him
If the driver has a rating below 4.4, give him a call to clarify your pick up location. Drivers with high rates tend to be smart enough to know how to reach your location on their own
Do not ask your driver to drive on a road that only toktoks can survive on
Try to set your pick up location in areas where the car can park with ease. Make life a bit easier for people
It helps if you asked the driver to park in a convenient location that might be a bit far from your location. You won’t drop dead if you walked for a few meters
Be polite and respectful. Add an “oustaz” before saying his name. Treat them with respect, they will serve you better
There are a few bad apples. File a complaint if the driver refused your destination, do not fall into the excuses that they give you. He could simply switch the app off if he doesn’t want to take requests
Look at the plate number on the app, that’s how you know which car to get into. File a complaint if the driver is using a different car than the one that appeared on the app
Many drivers are still new to the job. They have never offered that service before. It helps if you know your directions
Always give a rate, it helps with their bonuses. Be very careful and fair. Your rates determine the amount of incentive money they get
Ladies, if you feel comfortable with this, sit in the front seat. Mesh hayakol dera3ek (they won’t bite)
Gentlemen, in Egypt, sitting in the back seat, especially if you’re a guy, is offensive. Don’t do it unless you have a specified reason that you convey to the driver
Personally, I prefer to pay by credit card. Easier and the world is moving cashless. Many drivers prefer cash payments though. Choose the method of payment that suits you best
