Global transportation network company Uber has announced its return to Macau, officially launching in the form of “Uber Taxi”. It is also commencing dedicated shuttle services between Hong Kong and Macau.
Uber announced the news on its official website, but unlike previous entry, Uber is returning to Macau as a taxi service with the company indicating that drivers wishing to join Uber Taxi must possess a Macau taxi driver’s license.
Uber is also incentivizing drivers to join through a bonus program, stating, “Complete your first trip between now and 28 February 2026 and receive a MOP$500 (US$62.50) bonus.
“Additionally, within 14 days of the first trip, completing 60 more trips will earn an extra MOP$1,500 (US$187.50) bonus.”
Uber also announced the launch of a premium luxury sedan service connecting Macau and Hong Kong, though reservations must be made 24 hours in advance.
Some other companies have also launched online taxi services in Macau in recent months after the government revealed it would amend the relevant regulations in 2026 to allow for e-hailing taxi services. These include well-known mainland China map service provider “Amap” which established an online taxi service in Macau in June.
However, the Macau government has responded to Uber’s return. In a statement, the government said it has noted that an online platform (Uber) is operating online taxi booking services, emphasizing that such operations must collaborate with legally licensed vehicles in Macau and that taxi drivers’ fares must comply with legal requirements.
The government further emphasized that it is already advancing legislative amendments for online taxi booking service platforms.
It remains unclear when Uber Taxi will be truly operational, as attempts by IAG to hail a taxi via the Uber app on Tuesday morning found no vehicles currently available.
Uber previously attempted to enter the Macau market in 2015 but faced significant obstacles from the then-Macao SAR Government, including fines reaching up to MOP$90,000 (US$11,250). During its brief 600-day operation period, Uber drivers accumulated fines totaling over MOP$10 million (US$1.25 million). Ultimately, unable to sustain such financial pressure, Uber officially suspended its Macau services in 2017.
