Uber in Iran?
The 2025 Guide to Taxi Apps for Tourists (Snapp, Tapsi, Maxim)
If you’re reading this, it means you’re planning to come to Iran, and you’re looking for a few tips and tricks — welcome in advance.
Now, the bad news: just like a lot of other services affected by sanctions, Uber doesn’t work in Iran.
The good news: you’re not stuck. Three solid Uber alternatives are widely used in Iran, with locals relying on them every day.
The 3 best Uber alternatives in Iran (by popularity)
Here they are — in order of popularity and real-world usage:
Snapp: best for city rides and also intercity
Tapsi: great for city rides and also intercity
Maxim: especially useful for intercity, and it also works inside cities.
Why tourists prefer taxi apps in Iran
Taxi apps remove the two biggest pain points for travelers:
No bargaining: the price is shown before you confirm.
Less confusion: you set pickup + destination on the map.
More safety controls: driver details, trip logs, and sharing trip status exist in major apps.
Snapp (Iran’s most-used ride app)
Snapp launched in 2014 and works like Uber: set pickup, set destination, confirm, and you’ll see driver + car details.
What Snapp is best for
Everyday city rides (Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashhad, etc.)
Many routes support intercity rides (availability depends on the route)
How to install Snapp (what people don’t tell you)
Because app-store availability can be inconsistent, these are the practical options:
Use Snapp’s official download page (Android/iOS guidance).
On Android, many travelers use Cafe Bazaar to install/update Snapp.
Payment
Cash is the simplest.
In-app/online payment may require local payment rails; tourists often just pay cash.
Tapsi (strong #2, great coverage in major cities)
Tapsi is another top ride-hailing option for urban rides and is expanding into intercity travel.
Useful Tapsi features for travelers
In-city rides + some intercity options
Delivery/courier options
If you’re offline, Tapsi also supports phone booking (requires an Iranian SIM)
Maxim (great backup, strong for intercity)
Maxim started in 2017 and operates widely; it’s a reliable “Plan B” when supply is tight on other apps.
Why Maxim matters
Works for in-city rides and intercity travel
Has courier/cargo options
Supports phone booking (again: Iranian SIM needed)
How to use any Iranian ride-hailing app (Snapp/Tapsi/Maxim)
The flow is basically the same:
Install the app and register with your phone number (SMS verification).
Turn on GPS and pin your pickup location (or type it).
Enter destination (use a landmark if the address is tricky).
Review fare estimate and service type (economy vs comfort).
Confirm, then check the license plate + car model before you get in.
Pay cash unless you’re sure you have a working local payment method.
If you don’t want apps: how street taxis work in Iran (quick survival rules)
Street taxis are common, but tourists get overcharged when they skip basics.
The rules that keep you safe and priced fairly
Prefer official taxis (often yellow/green depending on city).
Agree on the price before you get in (many taxis don’t use meters).
Carry small bills (drivers may not have change).
If you’re unsure, ask a local what a fair price is — people usually help.
FAQ
Quick answers
Does uber operate in iran?
No, you need to use alternative local apps.
Do I need an Iranian SIM card?
Yes. Registration typically needs SMS verification, and phone-booking options also require an Iranian number.
Is Snapp/Tapsi/Maxim available in English?
These apps generally support English or are usable with minimal friction, especially for the basic ride flow.
Is it safer than random street taxis?
Usually, yes — app rides log driver + trip details, and some allow sharing trip status. But you still need to verify plate/car and use common sense.
What’s the simplest payment method for tourists?
Cash. It’s the most reliable option day-to-day.