Drivers’ perceptions of the sharing economy for transport services

Abstract

The sharing economy (SE) has been studied from various perspectives, but ridesharing is a particularly popular type of SE that has manifested around the world. Prior studies of the SE have largely explored customers’ perspectives, with drivers’ perspectives remaining largely unexplored. Due to its various business models, cultures, driver traits, and consumer groups, the Middle East is an important area for SE research. This study, therefore, aims to explore the drivers’ perceptions of the sharing economy in Qatar and how culture, public transport, regular taxi services, and unexpected incidences affect the sharing economy in Qatar. Based mainly on 31 face-to-face interviews with SE drivers, this study reveals several insights into the SE in Qatar. It identifies the main perceptions that drivers have of SE firms, driving distress, and customer hassles, as well as why drivers are motivated to engage with the SE and the system for drivers to rate customers and vice versa. Based on the findings, this study discusses the implications and some potential directions for future research.