Grab’s acquisition of Uber: How it will affect Indonesian users

Ride-hailing company Grab just announced its takeover of Uber Technologies Inc. for its Southeast Asian operations. For Uber users in Indonesia, these are the answers to some questions you have been wanting to ask.

Can I still use my Uber account?

Yes, but only until April 8.

An announcement from Grab’s official website stated the Uber app will be transitioned to the Grab app. That means that you need to download the Grab app and, if you have not yet made an account, sign up for a new one. The app is available in both Google Play and the App Store. From there, everything will stay the same — you can choose your transportation mode, whether car, taxi or motorcycle.

What will happen to my Uber account?

You can still see your past trips and your score in the Uber app. Your Uber account will stay active and can be used wherever Uber operates, which excludes Southeast Asia. To make it easier for you, data and information in your Uber app (except payment information) will be transferred to Grab, but it will not be shown there.

I use Uber for Business. How will it affect me?

Following the transition, the Uber for Business service for employees of local and global companies will not support trips in Southeast Asia. But Uber trips outside the region will still be supported based on the Uber for Business agreement.

Will the tariff change?

No. For services with fixed tariffs, such as GrabCar and GrabBike, the rate still depends on the distance. A surcharge fee still applies based on the trip request, vehicle availability at certain times, traffic jams and estimated travel time.

“It means the tariff will be lower when the request [is not made at a busy time], but the busier the request, the higher the tariff,” read Grab’s statement.

Meanwhile, passengers who choose the taxi option will pay according to the taxi meter.

Will I get my Grab faster?

Grab promises so. Ridzki Kramadibrata, managing director of Grab Indonesia, stated in an announcement that the large number of drivers on their platform will quickly fulfill the customers’ needs for fast transportation. “Passengers will have a shorter waiting time [for their Grab drivers], and a more comfortable and accessible trip in just one app,” read Ridzki’s statement, adding that they will develop their GrabRewards loyalty program for their users, as well as GrabFood.