How to Use Didi (China's Uber) as a Foreigner in 2026

Didi basics: China's ride-hailing giant

Didi is China's equivalent of Uber (which doesn't operate in China). It's used for everything from airport transfers to quick trips across town. Available in all major Chinese cities. Uber does not work in China — don't even try.

The Didi Global app has an English interface and is designed for foreigners. It's separate from the Chinese Didi app (滴滴出行). Both work, but the Global version is much easier to use if you don't read Chinese.

Rides are cheap compared to Western countries. A 30-minute taxi ride in Shanghai costs around 40-60 CNY ($5-8 USD). Express (budget) rides are even cheaper.

Setting up and booking your first ride

Download 'DiDi' from your app store. Sign up with your phone number — international numbers work. Verify via SMS code. Set your language to English in Settings.

Link a payment method: Alipay is the most reliable option. You can also use WeChat Pay or an international credit card directly (Visa/Mastercard supported in some cities).

To book: Enter your destination in the search bar. English names and addresses work in Shanghai, Beijing, and other major cities. For smaller cities, copy-paste the Chinese address. Confirm your pickup spot on the map, choose 'Express' (budget) or 'Premier' (nicer car), and tap 'Call a Ride'.

Communicating with your driver

Most Didi drivers don't speak English. Don't panic — the app handles communication automatically. The driver sees your destination in Chinese on their screen.

If the driver calls you (they often do to confirm pickup), don't answer if you can't speak Chinese. Instead, send a message through the app — it has auto-translate built in.

Pro tip: Screenshot your destination's Chinese name and address before booking. If there's any confusion, just show the driver your phone screen.

At airports, follow signs to the 'Online Car-Hailing Pickup' zone (网约车上客点). Book your Didi from there — drivers can't pick up from the regular taxi lane.

Warning: You'll encounter pushy unlicensed taxi drivers at airports and major tourist sites. They'll follow you around and won't take no for an answer. Just say '不要' (bù yào — don't want) firmly and keep walking. They charge 3-5x the normal rate. Always use Didi instead.