Uber is discontinuing its UberX service in South Africa on 1 September 2026, ending more than a decade of operations for what the company previously described as its most popular ride option in the country.

The ride-hailing giant confirmed the phase-out in a notice to customers this week, following an earlier notification sent to Johannesburg users in May 2026.UberX first launched in Cape Town in June 2014 before rolling out to Johannesburg two months later.The service typically used Toyota Corolla-class vehicles seating up to four passengers.

An Uber spokesperson said the proliferation of ride categories over the years had made it difficult for customers to distinguish between products, while reducing differentiation for drivers operating higher-specification vehicles.

“The decision to phase out UberX is intended to simplify the product portfolio and create clearer categories for both riders and drivers,” the spokesperson said.

Uber entered South Africa in August 2013 and has since expanded its offering to include Uber Go, Uber XL, Uber Van, Uber Courier, and more recently electric vehicle rides and motorbike trips in Gauteng.

From next month, South African riders will have four options: Uber Go – smaller cars at lower prices for short trips; Uber Comfort – newer vehicles with extra space and the option to request a quiet ride; Uber Black – premium vehicles with top-tier drivers; and Uber Reserve – bookings up to 90 days in advance with guaranteed pricing.

UberX drivers will not automatically lose access to the platform. They can continue offering rides through any other category for which their vehicles qualify.

The retirement comes as South Africa formalises its e-hailing industry. The government implemented amendments to the National Land Transport framework in September 2025, formally recognising e-hailing as a distinct public transport service.

The new framework requires platform providers to register with the National Public Transport Regulator, while drivers must hold operating licences.

Uber said the change was about creating clearer categories, not retreating from the market.“Whether you’re looking for an everyday budget saver or a bit of extra legroom, we’ve upgraded your options so you can ride exactly how you want to,” the company told customers.