Uber Submits Application for Hong Kong Ride-Hailing Licence
Uber formally submitted its application for a ride-hailing service licence to the Transport Department on Oct. 29, 2026, marking a significant step for personalized point-to-point transport in Hong Kong.
The formal application follows the Hong Kong government’s introduction of a new regulatory regime for ride-hailing services. Transport Department requirements invited platforms to apply for official operation permits under the updated framework. Estyn Chung, general manager of Uber for Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau, said the company welcomes the clear rules established by regulators.
Regulatory Compliance and Support for Driver-Partners
To prepare for the transition under the new licensing system, Uber has expanded its dedicated support team in the region. The company stated that this expanded team will provide training and examination preparation assistance to help driver-partners move smoothly into the formal regulatory environment.
Uber maintains that it has built deep partnerships with the local taxi industry over its operating history. The company intends to draw on its global operational experience and local track record to implement the government’s regulatory requirements throughout the application process.
Background and Operational History in Hong Kong
Uber launched its platform in 2010 to provide point-to-point transport at the touch of a button and has since facilitated more than 79 billion trips globally. The company operates in Hong Kong as part of its broader mission to create economic opportunity through urban movement, connecting residents and visitors with various mobility options.
Throughout its operations in the territory, Uber has faced a complex legal and regulatory landscape regarding unlicenced hire cars. The new licensing regime established by the Transport Department creates a formal pathway for ride-hailing platforms to operate legally within Hong Kong’s established transport network.
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