We have completed ten years in Sri Lanka – a decade that has reshaped how people move, how thousands earn, and how communities stay connected. 

Since launching in 2015, Uber has played a major role in transforming everyday mobility across the island, making it safer, more reliable, and more affordable at scale. According to the 2024 Sri Lanka Economic Impact Report by global research firm Public First, Uber and Uber Eats generated more than LKR 160 billion in economic value within a single year. Over the last decade, riders have travelled 1.15 billion kilometres on Uber – the equivalent of nearly 3000 trips to the moon. More than 320,000 Sri Lankans have earned through the platform as drivers. And with over 700,000 airport trips completed, Uber has become a trusted part of Sri Lanka’s tourism experience from the moment travellers land. Over the past year, Uber has expanded its footprint across the Western, Central, Southern, and Northern provinces, making reliable mobility accessible to more Sri Lankans and strengthening its position as one of the most preferred ride-hailing platforms in the country.

Hon’ble Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister for Entrepreneurship, Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development, said, “Over the past decade, Uber has become part of the fabric of daily life in Sri Lanka – not only by helping people get where they need to go, but by enabling thousands to earn an income with dignity and flexibility. As Sri Lanka works towards recovery and rebuilding, platforms like Uber play a meaningful role in strengthening mobility, supporting tourism, and expanding economic opportunity. We welcome Uber’s continued commitment to empowering drivers and communities across the island.”

Akanksha Singh, Head – South Asia Markets, Uber, said, “As we mark ten years in Sri Lanka, we’re incredibly proud of the role Uber has played in transforming mobility and unlocking economic opportunity across the island. This milestone reflects the trust riders, drivers, and communities have placed in us. Sri Lanka is an important part of our growth story, and our focus for the next decade is clear – to expand access to affordable, reliable transport, strengthen earning opportunities, and invest in partnerships and people to serve Sri Lanka even better.”

Recognizing drivers for their contribution

To mark the milestone, Uber  recognised ten outstanding Uber drivers for their professionalism, consistency, and commitment to keeping Sri Lanka moving. These individuals represent the tens of thousands of drivers who power mobility across the island every day.

We have announced a financial literacy program for driver-partners in partnership with Hatton National Bank (HNB). The first phase will reach 1000 drivers, offering practical guidance on budgeting, saving, and financial planning to build long-term security. 

Kaushalya Gunaratne, Country Manager – Mobility, Uber Sri Lanka, said, “Drivers are the backbone of Sri Lanka’s mobility network. Our financial literacy initiative and today’s recognitions reflect our commitment to supporting their long-term success. We’re proud to partner with HNB to help drivers build the confidence and skills they need to plan for their future.”

Kanchana Karunagama, Senior Vice President & Head of Retail Banking, HNB, added, “We congratulate Uber on completing ten years in Sri Lanka and are pleased to partner with them to help drivers strengthen the financial skills they need to plan for the future. Financial literacy is a powerful enabler, and we’re dedicated to supporting drivers as they work toward long-term financial wellbeing.”

As Sri Lanka recovers from Cyclone Ditwah, Uber has committed LKR 65 million to the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society to support relief and recovery. This includes funding for dry rations, medicines, and care packs; free rides for Red Cross teams; and support through Uber Eats to deliver essential supplies. Uber has also partnered with the Colombo Municipal Council to launch a public Donation Drive on the Uber app, enabling Sri Lankans to send essential items directly to the Town Hall collection point at no cost. These efforts build on Uber’s long-standing support for communities through moments of crisis, including LKR 60 million in aid during the economic crisis and 50,000 free rides during the COVID-19 pandemic for frontline workers and vulnerable citizens.

As we enter the next decade in Sri Lanka, we remain focused on expanding access to safe, reliable mobility; strengthening earning opportunities for drivers; and partnering with communities, especially in times of need. Ten years in, Uber continues to move Sri Lanka forward – one trip at a time.