Uber Launches in Barbados: A New Way for Travelers to Explore the Island

As of October 31, 2025, Uber has officially made its debut in Barbados, offering a new means for travelers to explore this beautiful Caribbean island. The Uber app is now available throughout Barbados, marking the company’s first entry into the eastern Caribbean market. With just a few clicks, visitors can request rides via Uber Taxi, connecting them directly with licensed local taxi drivers, enhancing their travel experience.

This launch is significant for both tourists and local drivers. By putting local taxi drivers at the forefront, Uber provides them with access to a broader pool of passengers while ensuring that the authenticity and hospitality associated with Barbados' tourism sector remain intact. According to Belén Romero, Regional General Manager for the Andean, Central America, and the Caribbean regions, travelers often desire comfort and familiarity while exploring new locales. “With the Uber app, visitors can discover Barbados with the same trust and safety standards that they expect from home, while supporting local taxi drivers who enhance their island experience,” she stated.

The introduction of Uber means that tourists will enjoy a familiar experience akin to what they encounter in many other global cities. The app offers a transparent, cashless environment where users can view driver details, estimated fares, and real-time routes. Uber’s taxi service has proven successful in various popular destinations; for instance, in the Dominican Republic, the “Uber Select” option has facilitated over 115,000 rides since its launch in 2022, including more than 31,000 rides to and from Punta Cana International Airport. In France, more than 3,000 taxis are currently active on the Uber platform, and in the United States, Uber Taxi operates in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

Additionally, in Barbados, the app introduces an innovative feature known as Uber Reserve, allowing travelers to plan rides up to 90 days in advance. This function is particularly useful for airport transfers or day trips across the island. Moreover, Uber Hourly provides users with the flexibility to book a driver by the hour, allowing for multiple stops as they explore the island at their own pace. Notably, Barbados is the first Caribbean country to offer Uber Hourly, designed specifically for the tourism sector.

Safety is paramount in Uber's service in Barbados, which includes over 30 security features designed to protect both passengers and drivers before, during, and after rides. These features encompass real-time ride sharing, PIN verification, and audio recording options. Every taxi driver must undergo a thorough verification process and provide valid documentation prior to receiving ride requests through the app.

Overall, the arrival of Uber in Barbados signifies a win-win situation for tourists and local drivers alike. Travelers can enjoy their time on the island with an efficient, convenient, and secure mode of transport at their fingertips. At the same time, local taxi operators stand to benefit from the increased visibility and demand for their services, fostering a sense of community while promoting the unique experiences that Barbados has to offer. The launch is not merely a business expansion; it’s an enhancement of the tourist experience, aligning modern technology with the rich cultural delivery of Barbadian hospitality.