New Bolt feature lets users book, pay rides for up to nine people

Taxi hailing firm Bolt has rolled out a new feature designed to allow one user to order and manage rides for up to nine other people in a single booking.

Dubbed ‘Family Profile’, the feature seeks to make group travel easier and more convenient.

It caters to families, support networks and group outings, streamlining the ride-hailing process and eliminating the need for multiple bookings.

The firm says the new feature was prompted by a significant increase in rides being booked on behalf of others.

“Two to six per cent of Bolt rides are currently ordered on someone’s behalf other than the account holder, often requiring manual coordination and sharing of trip details,” Bolt said.

“The new feature simplifies that process, offering a built-in solution that allows customers to invite others to join their profile, set monthly spending limits, and receive live trip notifications.”

Notably under the feature, members can request rides independently if they use the app, while the account holder retains oversight.

Bolt, however, elaborates that the new features do not change the core policies around rider eligibility, as each member added to a Family Profile must have their own Bolt account and meet the platform’s minimum age requirement of 18.

This means the feature cannot be used to book rides for unaccompanied minors.

Additionally, the feature is especially helpful for parents, caregivers, or anyone supporting older relatives who may not use smartphones or ride-hailing apps regularly.

Data shows that ride-hail usage is growing fastest among older adults, but practical barriers like app complexity or payment requirements still limit adoption.

“Family Profile helps close that gap by letting one person handle ride management and payments for others, even if they don’t use the Bolt app themselves,” Bolt reiterated.

Commenting on the feature, Dimmy Kanyankole, General Manager for Kenya and Tanzania at Bolt, said the ultimate goal is to develop ride-hailing solutions that meet the daily mobility needs of their customers.

“The launch of the Family Profile feature marks a significant step in empowering our customers to provide safe, seamless and convenient transportation for their loved ones,” Kanyankole said.