Uber, Sri Lanka’s leading ride-hailing platform, today announced the launch of its Women Rider Preference feature, aimed at enhancing safety and encouraging more women to drive on the platform. This innovative feature allows female drivers to choose to receive trip requests exclusively from women riders — a flexibility many have requested, especially when driving at night or in unfamiliar areas.
The feature is available across Uber’s cars, tuks, and bike services throughout Sri Lanka. It forms part of Uber’s ongoing commitment to providing safe, flexible earning opportunities for women. Drivers can toggle the setting on or off at any time, giving them full control over when they wish to use it. The feature is expected to help women drivers complete more trips, drive during preferred hours, and potentially increase their earnings.
Congratulating Uber on the launch, Hon. (Eng.) Eranga Weeraratne, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy, said:
“The launch of Uber’s Women Rider Preference feature in Sri Lanka is a commendable step toward building a safer and more inclusive digital transport ecosystem. By giving female driver-partners greater choice and control, this initiative directly supports our national vision of leveraging technology to create equitable opportunities — particularly for women. It reflects how innovation can be a powerful force for social progress, with Uber leading with purpose and driving meaningful impact through inclusive mobility solutions.”
Kaushalya Gunaratne, Country Manager – Mobility, Uber Sri Lanka, added:
“This feature was built in response to what women drivers told us they needed to feel more comfortable and confident behind the wheel. Many female drivers have shared that they would like to work more hours — especially during evenings — but hesitate due to safety concerns. Women Rider Preference gives them more control over their experience and helps unlock greater earning potential on their terms.”
Globally, the Women Rider Preference feature is now live in over 20 countries across five continents, including Australia, India, South Africa, and parts of Latin America and Eastern Europe.
How the Women Rider Preference Feature Works:
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Accessible via the Uber Driver app for drivers who identify as women.
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Drivers can toggle the feature on or off at any time, depending on their comfort and schedule.
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While the feature is designed to prioritize matching women drivers with women riders, Uber acknowledges that perfect matches may not always be possible due to trip availability and other factors.
With this launch, Uber aims to make driving a more viable and attractive option for Sri Lankan women seeking flexible income opportunities, while strengthening safety and trust across its platform.
