The festive spirit of Eid-ul-Fitr is in the air, and for many Pakistanis, that means traveling to reconnect with family. New data reveals a significant trend in how people are making these journeys: a growing preference for ride-hailing services. An inDrive survey highlights this shift, showing that more individuals are relying on the convenience and flexibility offered by platforms like inDrive to reach their loved ones during this special time.
The holy month of Ramadan has seen a surge in intercity travel across Pakistan as families eagerly anticipate celebrating Eid together. InDrive’s data indicates a clear increase in the use of ride-hailing services for these trips, with comfort, safety, and personalized travel experiences being key priorities for users.
Muhammad Awais, Country Lead of inDrive Pakistan, notes the significant increase in bookings, particularly as Eid approaches. He emphasizes that more Pakistanis are choosing ride-hailing for its ability to cater to their specific travel needs.
The inDrive survey sheds light on evolving travel patterns during Ramadan. While the initial weeks are typically dominated by daily commutes, the lead-up to Eid triggers a large-scale migration back to hometowns. This year, inDrive has observed a substantial rise in bookings reflecting this festive travel wave.
Flexibility is a major draw for inDrive users. The platform allows passengers to customize their rides, selecting everything from the car model and driver rating to choosing between private or shared options. Notably, shared rides have accounted for a significant portion of bookings during Ramadan, indicating a preference for cost-effective and sociable travel, especially for longer journeys to reunite with family.
Popular routes during this period underscore the strong desire for familial connections. For example, Lahore to Gujranwala is a frequently traveled route. Other key routes include travel between Islamabad and Rawalpindi to Lahore, and journeys to Faisalabad.
The average trip duration during Ramadan falls between 2.5 to 3 hours, covering approximately 150 kilometers. While some price negotiation might occur at the beginning of the booking period, the increasing demand closer to Eid often reflects the higher value people place on reaching their families safely and conveniently.
inDrive understands the importance of these family reunions during Ramadan. Their platform aims to make every journey easier, safer, and more affordable. Whether travelers plan their trips in advance or need a last-minute ride, inDrive adapts to their travel needs, ensuring a smoother and less stressful experience as they connect with loved ones this Eid.