US-based ride-hailing technology firm Uber resumed its services in the UAE capital on 19 November.

The new agreement signed between Uber and the Abu Dhabi Transport Department (DoT), represented by the Integrated Transport Centre, allows Emiratis or local nationals to be able to drive on the Uber app using their private vehicles on a full or part-time basis.

“This partnership allows us to further support the government’s efforts in positioning Abu Dhabi as a city that has undertaken a pioneering role in improving the quality of life through urban mobility and smart initiatives,” Anthony Khoury, Uber Middle East country manager, said in a statement.

Uber and Careem suspended operations in Abu Dhabi in August 2016 due to concerns over licensing. At the time, an Uber spokesperson in Dubai said that the suspension was temporary, without providing any further details regarding the reasons for halting operations or when the service would resume.