"Go Careem!" - the new way of catching a ride

I recently heard about “Careem” — a web and smartphone-based service designed for ordering limos in the UAE and Qatar.

I downloaded the iPhone application immediately, eager to try out the new and potentially groundbreaking invention.

After years of struggling with waiting long lengths of time for limo-drivers to pick me up, attempting to explain my locations repeatedly on the phone, and standing out on the street to hail a cab with sometimes little or no luck at all, I must say that I was quite skeptical about the adequacy of “Careem.”

The application, however, left me pleasantly surprised. Despite that, there are a few things to note, which I will include at the bottom of the post.

When ordering my first ride, the application tracked my location and asked me to choose from a list that included both my location, as well as other near by places. After that, I was similarly asked to put in the location that I was to be dropped off at.

Next, I added in the time I needed to be picked up — whether that was “NOW” or later (later in the day, or even on another day). For my purposes, I chose “NOW.”

The application then gave me a summary of my request, and asked me to verify following information: the place, the date, the time, the estimated fare, and my credit card number.

I then clicked “Go Careem!”

Here is the coolest bit: the application searched for (and showed me) the nearest Careem limo to my location. I was able to see and track exactly where the limo was as it got nearer and nearer. I was also given the name of the driver, the car model, and the driver’s cell number.

It took the limo driver around 7 minutes to reach me.

As I waited, the application gave me automated updates about my ride, such as “Hi! I’m coming to pick you up. 3.8 km away (7 mins)”

I found the technique extremely reliable and efficient; being able to track your driver on the map as they got nearer gave me a sense of security, assuring me that my driver is on the way. This is a privilege I never had, ordering limos the traditional way. The limo driver would constantly say, “I’m 5 minutes away,” when they would actually be on the other side of Doha, and I would have to sit and wait unknowingly.

The limo-driver was very professional and punctual. He spoke both English and Arabic.

The minimum fare for being picked up instantly is 40 QR. And for a later time, the minimum is 60 QR. I must say that although it is a bit pricey, I think it is worth it for the service offered.

Here are the few things to note:

1. Payment is by credit card – when you register, you will be asked to put in your credit card details.
2. You are given 50 QR free credit when you first register on www.careem.com/qatar, and receive 30 QR more for each referral - each party gets 30 QR!
3. Try to be at some sort of landmark when you are requesting to be picked up or dropped off– this will be easier for you.