DRIFE has recently become the first decentralized ride hailing company, or “Taxi 3.0”, to operate in the United Arab Emirates after launching its services in Dubai. DRIFE utilizes blockchain technology, specifically the Sui blockchain, to offer a ride hailing service similar to Uber, Careem, and Lyft, but using a decentralized model that provides several advantages for drivers and riders.
DRIFE differs from traditional ride-sharing apps in several ways, including not taking a commission and transferring 100% of trip earnings to drivers, transferring drivers’ earnings to their bank accounts daily, allowing drivers to know all trip details before accepting, enabling drivers to set the trip price instead of centralized pricing by the company, and eliminating surge pricing models.
DRIFE offers multiple payment methods including cryptocurrencies, and uses blockchain technology to provide an advanced level of privacy and protection of user data, such as phone numbers.
The company is also considering implementing additional security measures beyond the currently used trip sharing and emergency button, including installing cameras in vehicles and creating a volunteer network to monitor trips and report any issues.
Since launching in India and expanding to Dubai, the DRIFE app has been downloaded over 100,000 times, attracting over 19,000 drivers, 72,000 riders, and 285,000 trips, according to the company’s official website. In 2025, the company plans to expand its operations to other Arab countries, specifically Saudi Arabia and Qatar, while continuing to grow its market in India and Dubai.
DRIFE’s expansion into the Arab region coincided with the company’s recent announcement of a partnership with Ghaf Labs, an Emirati Web3 consultancy firm focused on the Middle East and North Africa region.
DRIFE can be classified as a Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN), one of the blockchain applications based on connecting owners of physical resources, in this case cars, to provide services to users more efficiently and at a lower cost than centralized companies.
DePINs use cryptocurrencies to incentivize active participation in their networks, and DRIFE indeed uses its own token ($DRF) within loyalty programs, referrals, and monthly subscriptions.
