Uber Begins Operations in Aberdeen Following License Approval and Delays from Unite Union Appeal

Uber Begins Operations in Aberdeen

Uber, the well-known private hire company, has officially launched its services in Aberdeen after receiving a license from the Aberdeen City Council earlier this year. This long-awaited expansion follows a series of delays, notably due to an appeal from the Unite union that temporarily halted the launch. However, the appeal was subsequently withdrawn, allowing Uber to move forward with its plans. Residents of Aberdeen can now utilize the Uber app to book rides, marking a significant milestone for the company in Scotland.

Launch Timeline and Availability

Initially, Uber aimed to commence operations in August, but the timeline shifted due to the aforementioned appeal. Following the resolution, Uber confirmed that trips could now be booked in the city. A spokesperson for Uber announced, "You can now book a trip in Aberdeen," indicating that the service will gradually roll out to all users in the coming weeks. While there is no definitive date for full user access, the company typically follows a phased approach to ensure a smooth transition. However, specifics about the number of available drivers in Aberdeen have not been disclosed, leaving potential riders curious about the service's capacity.

Background on Uber's Licensing Journey

Uber's journey to re-establish its presence in Aberdeen has been intricate. Originally, the company received permission to operate in the city back in 2018 but later surrendered its license. In June of this year, Uber re-applied for a license, which the council's licensing committee granted despite calls from a taxi trade delegation for further scrutiny on the application’s implications. This decision reflects a broader acceptance of ride-sharing services in Scotland, where Uber is already well-established in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow.