Uber has launched Uber One in Kenya, months after rolling out the subscription service in South Africa, North America, and select countries in Europe. The programme is designed to attract premium customers by offering benefits such as free deliveries and cashback on rides to reduce additional costs for frequent users.
Uber One is available through the Uber and Uber Eats apps, with subscription pricing set at KES 280 per month or KES 2,800 per year. Members receive free deliveries on Uber Eats, 10% cashback on premium rides like Uber Van, which launched in Kenya in December 2024, and 5% cashback on standard rides such as Uber Chap Chap.
The launch signals Uber’s continued push to diversify its revenue streams, especially amid ongoing tensions with local drivers over its commission model. While Uber reimburses drivers for discounts offered under various promotions, many drivers claim these reimbursements are inconsistent or insufficient, particularly for cash trips.
Given this, it remains to be seen how driver-partners will respond to Uber One, as some may be hesitant to accept discounted rides despite assurances of reimbursement.
For frequent Uber Eats users, however, the subscription could offer tangible savings, which makes it a compelling proposition. The overall reception of Uber One in Kenya will likely depend on whether both riders and drivers see value in the offering.
