Dara Khosrowshahi Transforms Uber into Global Leader in Ride-Hailing Services

Wednesday 7 January 2026 11:55

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, has successfully redefined the company’s trajectory, turning it into the world’s leading ride-hailing platform through a series of decisive leadership actions since taking the helm in 2017, during one of Uber’s most challenging periods.

When Khosrowshahi assumed leadership, Uber faced administrative scandals, executive resignations, significant financial losses, and escalating regulatory conflicts in key markets. Adopting a visionary and risk-aware approach, he restored stability and confidence across the organization.

Risk-Taking and Strategic Change
Leaving a successful role at Expedia, Khosrowshahi embraced Uber’s potential to redefine urban mobility globally, demonstrating a commitment to long-term strategic vision over short-term gains.

Corporate Culture and Regulatory Relations
He prioritized rebuilding internal culture, strengthening relationships with drivers and regulators, and implementing the principle “do the right thing” as a foundation for corporate governance, improving Uber’s credibility and public image.

Decisive Leadership During COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he made tough cost-cutting decisions, including reducing 25% of the workforce, while strategically reallocating resources to Uber Eats, which saw strong growth and helped stabilize the company’s finances.

Hands-On Leadership
Khosrowshahi personally tested the driver experience, gaining insights that led to direct operational improvements and fostering a culture of decision-making grounded in real-world experience.

Long-Term Growth Investments
Uber invested significantly in driver incentives, exited unprofitable markets, and focused on organic growth and strategic partnerships in autonomous vehicles, paving the way for sustained profitability and global leadership.

Through these five key strategic decisions, Khosrowshahi transformed Uber from a company in crisis into a stable, globally recognized player, setting a benchmark for leadership during periods of transformation and uncertainty.