The Grab Cyclo features the company's signature green branding. Passengers can book a cyclo to visit local historical sites, and the service is provided by experienced drivers who have completed Grab's mandatory training program.

This service is one of Grab's recent initiatives to promote digital transformation in the tourism sector, leveraging technology to showcase Hue's heritage, culture, and cuisine. Grab Cyclo is expected to help tourists explore the citadel and inner-city attractions, while also promoting digital transformation and improving the quality of life for local residents.

Passengers can book rides through the Grab app, with pickup and drop-off available at five locations: opposite Hien Nhon Gate, near Doan Thi Diem parking lot, Eo Bau Nam Xuong parking lot, Eo Bau Nam Thang parking lot, and Toa Kham wharf. Following the trial period, Grab will collaborate with local authorities to explore expanding pickup and drop-off points to offer passengers more options.

The Grab Cyclo service carries a maximum of one passenger with initial routes limited to 60 minutes. The photo shows a group of cyclos passing by historical sites. Photo: Grab

The program is part of a three-year collaboration between Grab Vietnam and Hue City, supported by the Department of Construction, Department of Tourism, Hue City Development Research Institute, and Hue Monuments Conservation Center.

The Grab Cyclo service is expected to provide convenient transportation while preserving and promoting the traditional cultural values of Hue City – a city with eight UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Traditional cyclo drivers will become familiar with the digital platform to serve both tourists and locals. They can also participate in digital skills training programs, gaining access to technology and artificial intelligence from the Grab platform.

At the launch event on 15/8, Nguyen Thanh Binh, Standing Vice Chairman of the Hue City People's Committee, stated that the local government encourages and welcomes initiatives that both preserve cultural values and promote digital transformation, enhancing the quality of tourism services. The Grab Cyclo is a testament to this, not just as a familiar mode of transport associated with Hue's memories and imagery, but now integrated with technology for easy booking and convenient payment. The service also creates new livelihood opportunities for cyclo drivers in a digital direction, aligning with the current era's development trends.

Nguyen Thanh Binh, Standing Vice Chairman of the Hue City People's Committee, speaks at the event on 15/8. Photo: Grab

Sharing the same view, Tran Hoang Tuan, Market Development Director of Grab Vietnam, said Hue is the only city where Grab operates this service. The company aims to provide a tailored service for the market while creating digitalized livelihood opportunities for local workers.

"Hue is a unique city, where life, culture, and history blend on every street and corner. A cyclo tour is the most suitable way to experience this distinctive beauty," Tuan emphasized.

To further enhance the experience, Grab also launched the "Hue Love Tour" promotion package, helping users save on transportation, dining, and local specialty shopping during their visit.

Tran Hoang Tuan, Market Development Director of Grab Vietnam, speaks at the event. Photo: Grab

Following the Grab Cyclo, Grab will collaborate on other practical projects to improve the quality of life for residents and contribute to Hue's socio-economic growth goals. Tran Hoang Tuan stated that the company is expanding and improving services to cater to domestic and international tourists. "The support from Hue City, its departments, branches, and local units motivates Grab to continue assisting Hue's people in digital transformation, accessing income opportunities, and developing businesses from the thriving tourism flow," Hoang said.

Representatives from Grab, drivers, and delegates take a commemorative photo at the launch ceremony. Photo: Grab

In February, Hue City and Grab signed a three-year cooperation agreement to promote digital transformation in transportation and tourism, while supporting small traders, household businesses, and residents in enhancing digital skills. In April, the company collaborated with the Hue Department of Tourism to award the "Hue Famous Restaurant" prize to 26 local eateries and restaurants, aiming to honor, preserve, and develop traditional cuisine. In July, Grab partnered with the Hue City Development Research Institute and the Women's Union to launch the "Grab Sisterhood" initiative, creating flexible income opportunities for local female workers.

Thai Anh