EGYPT – Ride hailing app giant, Uber has launched a new delivery tech solution, “Connect”, that will enable users to send packages and request deliveries through the Uber app.

The tech company clarified that the package delivery service- Uber Connect – comes under the company’s global pledge to help people “Move What Matters during COVID-19”.

“Egypt is the first country to roll out the product in MENA to support locals as the country coexists with the virus,” Uber said in a statement.

Uber explained that Uber Connect will have a service where users can send packages to and from friends and family, and the second one is a stop and shop service.

Uber Connect, according to Uber, will also be equipped with another service where drivers can pick up deliveries on behalf of the users from nearby stores.

“Facilitating users’ day-to-day activities through the app, Uber Connect aims to keep users connected while encouraging social distancing,” Uber commented.

General Manager of Uber in Egypt, Ahmed Khalil said, “Uber Connect has been designed to ease senders’ daily errands, while empowering drivers with new earning opportunities.”

“By launching Uber Connect, we are taking a step forward to accelerate our efforts to keep our community safe, which has been our goal since the start of COVID-19,” he added.

For customers desiring to use the service, Uber explained that “packages must be under 10KG or under LE 1,000 in value and securely sealed by senders for a successful delivery.”

It added that senders can also ask couriers to purchase groceries, laundry pick-up, or other small items on their behalf via Uber Connect.

Once goods have been delivered senders will then be required to pay the drivers for the purchased items in cash upon delivery and the trip fare either in cash or through credit cards.

Uber’s launch in Egypt follows a successful introduction to more than 25 cities in Australia, Mexico, Canada and the US.

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