Is There Uber in Thailand? Ultimate Ride-Sharing Guide

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Is there Uber in Thailand?

The short answer is no, there is no Uber in Thailand – but don’t let that dampen your adventurous spirit! 

You’ve packed your bags, booked your flight, and you’re ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of Thailand. You’ve got your itinerary filled with must-see temples, bustling markets, and pristine beaches. 

But there are questions nagging at you: “Is there Uber in Thailand?” “How will I get around Thailand?”

There is no Uber in Thailand, but it does boast its own efficient and user-friendly version: Grab. 

Like Uber, Grab is a ride-hailing app that’s taken Southeast Asia by storm, making it a breeze for travelers like you to navigate Thailand’s vibrant cities and serene countryside.

As a fellow traveler, I understand the anxiety you might be feeling: the language barrier, unfamiliar routes, and the fear of getting overcharged. 

But with Grab in Thailand, those concerns become a thing of the past. I’ve spent months traveling around Thailand solo (and even spent a couple of months living in Chiang Mai as a digital nomad!), and I use Grab all the time, especially when it’s raining..

Just like Uber, you can book a ride using Grab with a few taps on your phone, know the fare upfront, and reach your destination hassle-free.

So buckle up, because I’m about to take you on a journey through the ins and outs of using Grab in Thailand, ensuring your trip is as smooth and enjoyable as a ride on one of Thailand’s iconic long-tail boats!

👉 Book one of these private airport transfers for a stress-free arrival at any airport in Thailand!

History of Uber in Thailand

I lived in New York City for 14 years before my round-the-world trip, and ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft were my go-to for getting home after hanging out at the bar with my friends. But in Thailand, I had to find a different way home.

Uber, the renowned international ride-sharing giant, once graced the streets of Thailand. 

However, in 2018, Uber made a strategic decision to sell its Southeast Asia-based business to Grab, a Singaporean company that had been gaining traction in the region. This move marked a significant shift in the Thai ride-sharing landscape, leaving many wondering what the future would hold.

The acquisition by Grab was not just limited to the ride-hailing aspect. Uber Eats, the food delivery service, was also included in the deal. This added value for Grab in consolidating its position as a comprehensive mobility platform offering not only rides but also food delivery services.

Since then, Grab has asserted its dominance as the leading ride-sharing app in Southeast Asia, with Thailand being one of its key markets. 

⛑️ My number one safety tip for travelers, no matter where you’re going or how long your trip is, is to buy SafetyWing insurance to protect your trip.

Is There Lyft in Thailand?

No, Lyft does not operate in Thailand. 

In fact, it does not currently operate in any of the countries in Southeast Asia. It is only available in North America and Australia.

Instead, Grab has been able to establish itself as the go-to ride-sharing app for Thailand. With a wide range of services—from car rides to food delivery—Grab offers users a seamless experience through its app.

Advantages of Using Grab to Get Around Thailand

Want a hassle-free and safe way to navigate Thailand? Look no further than Grab! 

Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok or venturing off the beaten path in Chiang Mai, Grab offers an unbeatable solution for travelers. 

Say goodbye to the tediousness of haggling, navigating unfamiliar routes, overcoming language barriers, and the worry of falling victim to scams. 

Discover the advantages of using Grab and make your Thai adventure a breeze!

👉 Pro Tip: I use this site to look up train, bus, and ferry routes.

How Much Does Grab in Thailand Cost?

Grab is the most popular ride-sharing service in Thailand, making it extremely easy and convenient for travelers to get around. And it’s relatively cheap compared to other parts of the world!

With Grab, travelers have a variety of ride options (the bigger the city, the more options), each with its own price structure.

The cost of your Grab ride is very clearly stated before you order your pick-up, so you can decide if the price is right. 

The Price of Your Grab Depends on Type of Ride, Distance, and Traffic 

Grab tends to be one of the cheapest ways to get around Thailand. 

The cost of your Grab ride will depend on several factors including which type of ride you choose, how far you’re traveling, how much traffic congestion there is, and what the demand for rides is at the time you book.

The price should be clearly listed on the app before you confirm your ride. 

Grab will often offer a lower price for riders who pay with a credit card through the app, so make sure you have your credit card added before you order a ride.

👉 Find out how much it costs to protect your trip today with Safety Wing travel insurance.

Here’s an overview of Grab pricing (pricing is subject to change at any time so be sure to check the Grab app for the most up-to-date prices):

Congestion Pricing

Whichever Grab ride you choose with the exception of GrabBike, expect to pay an extra THB 2 per minute when there’s a lot of traffic. GrabBikes can typically bypass the traffic. 

Just Grab

Books the nearest small or mid-sized vehicle, either a taxi or car, at an upfront fixed rate.

Base Fare: THB 45

Distance Pricing: THB 7/km up to 40 km, THB 10/km after 40km

GrabCar

Books the nearest small or mid-sized car.

Base Fare: THB 45

Distance Pricing: THB 8/km up to 6km, THB 7/km 6-40km, THB 10/km after 40km

GrabCar for Ladies

Rides for women by women drivers. 

As a solo female traveler, I love that the bigger Thai cities have this option! 

Base Fare: THB 45

Distance Pricing: THB 8/km up to 6km, THB 7/km 6-40km, THB 10/km after 40km

GrabCar Plus 

Premium driver service with a luxurious experience in a larger car 

Base Fare: THB 110 

Distance Pricing: THB 12/km

GrabBike 

If you feel comfortable riding on the back of someone’s motorbike, this is usually the cheapest Grab ride option. Riding a scooter in Thailand isn’t known to be the safest way to get around, but it is efficient and fun! 

My first time using GrabBike was when I was backpacking in Bangkok, and I couldn’t believe how quickly we got home when there was so much traffic! But we just weaved in and out of the cars like it was nothing. 

On the downside, when it started pouring rain, we got soaked.

Base Fare: THB 30

Distance Pricing: THB 5-12/km 

GrabTaxi 

Order pick-up by fast, safe, and reliable metered taxis so you don’t have to worry about a language barrier or having to negotiate a price.

Base Fare: THB 40

Distance Pricing: THB 6/km

Extra Charges: Multiple stops, pick-up outside of 2nd ring, 3 am-7 am bookings

Grab SUV 

Get picked up by a large-sized vehicle, great if you’re more than two people and need the extra room.

Base Fare: THB 110

Distance Pricing: THB 12/km

Grab Van

Perfect for groups.

Base Fare: THB 120 

Distance Pricing: THB 11-23/km

To/From Airport: THB 150

Advanced Booking Fee: THB 100

Grab RodDaeng 

In Chiang Mai and other cities in Thailand, a common mode of public transport for locals and travelers is the red Songthaew truck which has two benches for passengers in the back. Usually, you just hail one down on the street, but you can now order with the Grab app! 

Check the app for pricing. 

Grab TukTuk (Electric) 

Grab added electric TukTuks to its ride options in 2019. More expensive than a Grab car, but a lot more fun.

Base Fare: THB 80 base fare

Distance Pricing: THB 12-15/km 

GrabDriveYourCar 

And if you have your own car in Thailand, you can book a private driver using the app! Check the app for pricing for this one.

👉 Check out this full-day Chiang Dao Kayaking, Caving, and Jungle Tour from Chiang Mai. You’ll get to kayak along the Mae Ping River, surrounded by a tranquil forest and a bamboo jungle, greeted by water buffalo and birds. After a local lunch, you’ll explore the Chiang Dao Cave System with headlamps and flashlights.

How to Use Grab in Thailand

Grab is a very easy app to use in Thailand. If you’ve used another ride-share app like Uber or Lyft, you’ll find it to work very similarly.

Here are the steps for setting up the Grab app so you can zip around Thailand like a pro!

1. Download & Set-Up Grab Before Arriving in Thailand

In order to set up your Grab account, the app is going to need to authenticate your account by sending you a 6-digit OTP (one-time password) to your phone, either via SMS text message or WhatsApp. You’ll need to be connected to WiFi or cellular data to complete this step and to use the app. 

OTP will be sent via SMS for phone numbers with country codes of Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, China, Denmark, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Portugal, Germany, and Belgium. 

For phone numbers from other countries, OTP will be sent via WhatsApp. If WhatsApp is not installed, OTP will be sent via SMS.

Pro tip: Ensure your phone is unlocked if you plan on getting a local SIM card!

2. Add Your Credit Card Details to the Grab App 

Sometimes Grab will offer better rates for users paying for their ride without cash, so it’s a good idea to have your credit card linked to the app. You can also pay with cash if you prefer. 

3. Add Emergency Contacts

In an emergency, the Grab App has a “Get Emergency Help” button that will connect you to the local police and send an SMS text message with your ride details and current location. As a solo traveler, this is an important step!

4. Order Your First Grab Ride

You’ll need to be connected to WiFi or cellular data to order pick-ups with the Grab app.  

5. Leave a Rating and a Tip

Help other riders to know how the driver is. Although tipping is optional, it is much appreciated! I prefer to give my driver a cash tip when I can so that I can ensure they receive it.

Should You Tip Your Grab Driver?

Tipping your Grab driver is not mandatory, but is always very much appreciated.

Grab rides are so cheap – and Grab takes a portion of the fare – so I like to show my appreciation to the driver by giving a small tip. 

I usually tip in cash when I can – 10-20 baht for short trips and up to 10% for longer rides.

What Else Can You Use the Grab App For?

While Grab is most commonly known for its ride-hailing services, the app offers much more to make your travel experience in Thailand even more convenient and enjoyable (it’s like Uber Eats, but it’s Grab!).

• Food Delivery: Craving some local Thai cuisine but don’t feel like leaving your hotel room? With GrabFood, you can order from a wide range of restaurants and have it delivered right to your doorstep.

• Package Delivery: Need to send a package across the city? GrabExpress provides courier services that ensure your package reaches its destination swiftly and securely.

• Grocery Shopping: Forgot some essential items or want to cook up a storm with local ingredients? GrabMart allows you to shop for groceries, personal care items, and household products, which are then delivered to your location. I used this a lot when I was living in Chiang Mai!

• Digital Payments: Say goodbye to the hassle of carrying cash around. GrabPay, a digital wallet feature in the Grab app, allows you to pay for rides, food, and other services seamlessly and securely.

So, while Grab started as a transportation solution, it has evolved into a one-stop platform catering to various needs of travelers in Thailand. 

Is Grab in Thailand Safe?

As a woman who loves to embark on solo adventures, I completely understand the need for safety, especially when you’re navigating a foreign country solo. 

So, let’s address the elephant in the room: Is Grab in Thailand safe? I’m thrilled to tell you that yes, it absolutely is!

Grab has implemented several measures to ensure the safety and comfort of its passengers, so it’s just as safe as Uber or Lyft.

⛑️ My number one safety tip for travelers, no matter where you’re going or how long your trip is, is to buy SafetyWing insurance to protect your trip.

🚗 Driver Background Checks & Facial Recognition: First and foremost, all drivers are vetted through thorough background checks before they can start picking up passengers. Drivers are required to verify their identity through facial recognition at least once per day.

🚗 Share Your Trip: The app also allows you to share your ride details with loved ones, so they can track your journey in real-time – a feature that’s particularly reassuring for solo travelers.

🚗 Driver Ratings: After the ride, riders have the opportunity to leave a rating and review for the drivers, so future riders can trust their experience.

🚗 Zero-Tolerance: For my fellow solo female travelers, Grab takes our safety very seriously. They have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of harassment or inappropriate behavior. You can report any issues directly via the app, and the customer service team is swift to respond and take necessary action.

🚗 GrabCar for Ladies: In bigger cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, you can even request a woman driver – how cool is that!? 

🚗 Emergency Button: If there’s an emergency during your ride, you can hit the “Get Emergency Help” button in the app, and a call to the Police Hotline will launch, connecting you to the local police. It will also trigger an SMS text message with your ride details and current location to your emergency contacts.

But safety isn’t just about the ride itself. It’s also about navigating the language barrier and unfamiliar locations. 

Other Helpful Features

With Grab, you don’t need to worry about explaining your destination to a driver who may not speak English. Just input your destination in the app, and voila! No confusion, no miscommunication. And your journey is being tracked by GPS automatically.

What’s more, the upfront pricing feature eliminates the stress of haggling or being overcharged. You know exactly how much you’ll pay before you confirm your booking.

So, whether you’re hopping between bustling night markets, heading back to your hotel after a day of temple-hopping, or venturing out for a late-night street food hunt, Grab has got you covered. 

Best Apps for Thailand Travel (No Uber in Thailand)

Thailand is a digitally connected country with a multitude of apps available to make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. In addition to Grab, here are some best apps for Thailand you should consider downloading:

📱Google Translate: While English is spoken in many tourist areas, there will be many instances where you’ll find the local language, Thai, predominant. Google Translate can help bridge the communication gap. Its camera feature can even translate written text in real-time, perfect for menus or signs! I use this in every country I travel to. 

📱Google Maps: The best part of Google Maps for travelers is the ability to download maps for a region offline so that you can get around even when you aren’t connected to wifi or cellular data.

📱Maps.me: An offline map that allows you to navigate around cities even without an internet connection. It’s extremely useful when exploring off-the-beaten-path locations in Thailand. I find this app to be better than Google when it comes to walking routes and trails. 

📱Booking.com: This is my favorite hotel booking app. It offers competitive prices and comprehensive reviews, making it easier to find the right accommodation for your stay.

📱HostelWorld: This is the best app for finding budget-friendly accommodations.

📱LINE: This is the most popular messaging app in Thailand. Many businesses use LINE for communication, and it could come in handy if you need to get in touch with your hotel or tour operator.

📱WhatsApp: If you don’t want to download LINE, WhatsApp remains very popular for travelers. 

📱Any Currency Converter App: To keep track of your spending and avoid confusion with currency exchange rates, apps like XE and My Currency Converter are very helpful. They offer live exchange rates and can work offline as well.

📱TripAdvisor: A classic app for travelers worldwide, TripAdvisor provides reviews and recommendations for attractions, restaurants, and accommodations. It’s a great tool for planning your itinerary.

These apps, combined with Grab, will equip you with the tools to navigate, communicate, dine, and explore Thailand with ease and confidence. 

⭐️My top pick for seeing beautiful Phi Phi Island without the crowds is this Phi Phi Sunrise Tour from Phuket, with a near-perfect 5-star rating.

How to Get Around Thailand Without Uber

Thailand offers a diverse range of transportation options to suit every traveler’s needs, budget, and sense of adventure. Here are some of the most popular ways to get around:

🏝️ Book a Tour: One of my favorite ways to explore Thailand is by booking a tour. You can book one-day trips to multi-day packages that include transportation, accommodation, and sightseeing.

🏝️ Grab App: As we’ve discussed earlier, Grab is Thailand’s equivalent to Uber (there is no Uber in Thailand). It’s a convenient, safe, and efficient way to travel around cities.

🏝️ Tuk-Tuks: These three-wheeled motorized vehicles are an iconic symbol of Thailand. They’re great for short trips within city limits, and the experience is quite unique!

🏝️ Taxis: Metered taxis are available in larger cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Remember to ensure the driver turns on the meter to avoid being overcharged. You can also order a metered taxi using the Grab app. It’s best to skip any taxis waiting outside tourist attractions and hail a moving taxi on the street to avoid being scammed.

Pro Tip: If the taxi is available, you’ll see a small red light glowing on the lower right-hand corner of the windshield (this says “free” in Thai). This light indicates that the taxi is vacant and ready to pick up passengers.

🏝️ Motorbike Taxis: For solo travelers or those in a hurry, motorbike taxis can zip through traffic. Helmets are usually provided for safety. You can order GrabBike for a scooter pick-up. 

🏝️ Skytrain (BTS) and Metro (MRT): In Bangkok, these rail networks are a fast, air-conditioned alternative to road transport. They cover major areas of the city and are easy to navigate.

🏝️ Songthaew: This is a converted red pick-up truck with two rows of seats in the back, hence the name which translates to ‘two rows’. They operate fixed routes, but some can be hired privately. Just hail one down on the street and tell them where you’re trying to go. 

🏝️ Buses: Thailand has an extensive bus network that links cities, towns, and tourist spots. They range from cheap local buses to luxurious VIP coaches. I use 12Go Asia to look up and book routes.

🏝️ Trains: For longer journeys, trains are a comfortable option. The overnight sleeper trains offer a fun and relaxing way to travel between Bangkok and Chiang Mai or the Southern provinces. Check routes and ticket prices using 12Go Asia. 

👉 Pro Tip: Taking the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is a classic Thailand experience! I use this site to look up train and bus routes in Southeast Asia. Try to book at least a few days in advance because the trains do sell out, especially the lower beds. I recommend first or second-class sleeper cars that have air conditioning.

🏝️ Ferries/Speedboats: To explore Thailand’s beautiful islands, you’ll need to hop on a ferry or speedboat. Services are regular and reasonably priced.

🏝️ Bicycles/Scooters: In quieter regions like Chiang Mai or Pai, renting a bicycle or scooter can be a great way to explore at your own pace.

🏝️ Rental Car: For those looking for more freedom, you can rent a car or van at the major airports.

Pro Tip: If you’re negotiating a ride outside of the Grab App, you can still check what the approximate fare is with Grab app so you know what a good price is (keeping in mind that it might not be quite as cheap as the app says). 

Does Grab Work at the Airport in Thailand?

Yes, the Grab app does work at airports in Thailand (there is no Uber in Thailand), including major ones like Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok), Don Mueang International Airport (Bangkok), and Chiang Mai International Airport. 

👉 Book one of these private airport transfers for a stress-free arrival at any airport in Thailand!

Here are a few things travelers need to know about getting from the airport to the city with Grab:

🚙 Pick-up Points: Airports usually have designated pick-up points for Grab drivers. After booking your ride, the app will direct you to the nearest pick-up point.

🚙 Wait Times: Depending on the time of day and airport traffic, wait times for Grab cars can vary. It’s a good idea to factor in some extra time, especially if you’re catching a flight.

🚙 Fares: Grab fares from the airport can be higher due to airport surcharges and toll fees. However, the convenience and ease of using Grab often outweigh the slightly higher cost.

🚙 Wi-Fi Access: You’ll need internet access to book a Grab car. Most Thai airports offer free Wi-Fi, or you can purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for mobile data.

Grab is a convenient and reliable transportation option, particularly for first-time visitors or those who prefer a hassle-free travel experience. Just open the app, book your ride, and enjoy the journey to your destination!

Renting a Car in Thailand

Renting a car in Thailand is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the country at their own pace. 

I don’t recommend renting a car in Thailand if you are planning to stay in a big city – there are way easier ways to get around in places like Bangkok and Chiang Mai! 

But if you want to explore outside of the city, you’re a confident driver, and you have an International Driver’s Permit, you can rent a car easily. 

🚙 I recommend using Discover Cars to compare costs and get the best deal.

Renting a Scooter in Thailand

I have gotten around places like Pai, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and Phuket with a rental scooter. 

Riding a scooter in Thailand comes with risks, but it’s a lot of fun for experienced riders. 

Renting a scooter costs anywhere from $3-8 per day, depending on which rental shop you choose and how long you rent it for. 

👉 I use this travel insurance, which covers my medical coverage in the event of a motorbike accident, as long as I am appropriately licensed for the area I’m driving in (in Thailand, that’s an International Driver’s Permit validated for motorcycles) and am wearing proper safety gear such as a helmet. 

Uber in Thailand FAQs

Wrap Up: Is There Uber in Thailand?

There is no Uber in Thailand, but travelers need not worry about getting around. 

Grab, the dominant ride-hailing service offers a seamless and convenient alternative with services ranging from taxis to private cars and motorbike taxis. 

Grab is operational in most cities and tourist hotspots and is generally one of the safest ways for travelers to get around Thailand. 

Remember that local taxi services are also available and generally affordable (just make sure they turn on the meter!). 

So whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok or the serene beaches of Phuket, rest assured that reliable transportation is just a few taps away on your smartphone. Safe travels!

👉 Book one of these private airport transfers for a stress-free arrival at any airport in Thailand!