In September 2025, Uber officially announced its exit from Côte d’Ivoire, shutting down operations in Abidjan and beyond. After six years in the country, the ride-hailing giant is withdrawing its app and services, leaving local competitors to dominate the market.
This is the first full African market exit for Uber, and it raises critical questions about the sustainability of its model on the continent.
Why Did Uber Exit Côte d’Ivoire?
While Uber has not provided a detailed explanation, several key factors contributed to the decision:
1. Regulatory and Licensing Challenges
Côte d’Ivoire’s authorities had tightened control of ride-hailing services, limiting the number of authorised players. Uber reportedly faced ongoing struggles to align with evolving local regulations.
2. Driver Payouts and Economic Realities
Many Ivorian drivers rely on daily cash access to cover fuel and maintenance. Uber’s payout cycle and commission structure clashed with this reality, making it less attractive compared to rivals who adapted better to local needs.
3. Competitive Market Pressure
Regional and global rivals like Yango, Heetch, Bolt, and Moja Ride were already well-established in Abidjan. These platforms tailored their services more closely to local conditions, making it difficult for Uber to gain a dominant foothold.
4. Limited Local Adaptation
Uber’s global “one-size-fits-all” model has worked in some regions, but in Côte d’Ivoire’s informal and cash-driven transport economy, it struggled to adapt.
Impact on Côte d’Ivoire’s Ride-Hailing Market
Uber’s departure reshapes the ride-hailing industry in Abidjan. With Uber gone, Yango and Heetch are expected to double down on market share, while local operators may also seize the opportunity.
For consumers, this could mean more locally-adapted services and potentially more competitive pricing. For drivers, it could bring new partnership opportunities with platforms that better understand their financial needs.
Lessons for Uber and Africa’s Tech Market
Uber’s exit from Côte d’Ivoire serves as a wake-up call for global tech firms entering Africa:
- Localisation is key. A global model cannot simply be copied and pasted into every market.
- Driver economics matter. Understanding how drivers manage daily cash flow is essential for adoption.
- Regulatory alignment is non-negotiable. Governments are tightening rules around digital platforms, and compliance will define long-term survival.
Uber’s withdrawal from Côte d’Ivoire highlights the complexities of scaling global platforms in Africa. While Uber remains active in other African countries, this exit signals that not every market is sustainable under its current model.
For now, Côte d’Ivoire’s ride-hailing future rests in the hands of regional and local players who may be better positioned to adapt to the unique challenges of the market.
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