RIDE Ethiopia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Kuriftu Resorts, a move that is expected to improve how people move between destinations while supporting the country’s tourism and digital economy. The partnership brings together two Ethiopian companies with a shared goal to make travel easier, more reliable and more connected.
The agreement focuses on integrating transport services with hospitality, allowing guests to access seamless and technology-driven mobility solutions during their stay. This is expected to improve customer experience while also creating new opportunities within Ethiopia’s growing tourism sector.
Samrawit Fikru, CEO of RIDE, said the partnership is built on a clear and practical vision. “We are proud to officially sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Kuriftu Resorts, under Boston Partners PLC,” she said. “This partnership reflects a shared vision to redefine mobility and elevate customer experience through reliable, technology-driven transport solutions.”
She added that the company sees mobility as more than just transportation. “At RIDE, we believe mobility is more than just movement. It is about connecting people to opportunities, experiences, and destinations seamlessly and efficiently.”
Improving Travel Experience Through Technology
The collaboration is expected to make travel more accessible and organized for both local and international visitors. By combining RIDE’s transport technology with Kuriftu’s hospitality services, guests will be able to move more easily between airports, cities and resort locations.
“Through this collaboration, we aim to enable smarter, more accessible travel for guests, while contributing to the growth of Ethiopia’s tourism sector and digital economy,” said Samrawit.
RIDE has built its reputation over the past 11 years as one of Ethiopia’s most recognized transport platforms. Founded in 2014 under Hybrid Designs PLC, the company introduced technology-driven ride-hailing services aimed at making transport in Addis Ababa safer, more affordable and more convenient.
Over the years, the company has expanded its services and introduced tools that help both individual users and businesses manage transport efficiently. Its trip reporting and financial tracking systems have been widely used by companies to manage budgets in real time, strengthening accountability and transparency.
The company’s mission is to provide safe, reliable and fast transportation services across Africa, improving quality of life and connecting people to opportunity. Its long-term vision is to become a global player in the transport industry while maintaining a strong focus on the African market.
Supporting Ethiopia’s Tourism Growth
Kuriftu Resorts brings a strong presence in Ethiopia’s tourism and hospitality sector. Known for its locations in areas such as Lake Tana and the crater lakes of Bishoftu, the resort group offers a blend of Ethiopian cultural experience and modern comfort.
The resorts are designed to reflect Ethiopia’s natural beauty and architectural heritage, offering guests a mix of relaxation, adventure and wellness experiences. With a focus on traditional hospitality, Kuriftu aims to give visitors a deeper connection to Ethiopian culture.
By working together, both companies aim to create a more connected travel ecosystem that benefits tourists, businesses and the wider economy. The partnership is also expected to support the country’s push toward digital transformation by integrating technology into everyday services like transport and tourism.
“Together with Kuriftu Resorts, we are excited to build more connected, efficient and forward-looking mobility experiences across cities in Ethiopia,” Samrawit said. “Two Ethiopian companies. One shared vision. Real impact.”
