Egypt’s social norms restrict more women from participating in the ridesharing industry

Social and cultural norms in emerging markets including Egypt are restricting the extent to which women seek employment in the booming ridesharing industry, according to a report from the International Finance Corporation (pdf). The report finds that apps such as Uber and Lyft hiring women drivers could lead to positive results both economically and in creating a safer environment for women customers. “17% of women riders surveyed identify the lack of women drivers as a reason not to use the Uber app more often, and 40% would prefer a woman driver when traveling alone or at night. Attracting more women drivers could therefore encourage more women to ride, thereby further increasing demand for women drivers, creating a virtuous cycle.”