https://snapp.ir
When traveling in Iran, securing reliable transportation is an important challenge. Particularly with language barriers, negotiating taxi fares and explaining destinations can be extremely difficult.
In such situations, the Iranian ride-hailing app “Snapp!” becomes a reliable ally. With this app, you can see the fare to your destination in advance and easily request a ride by simply entering your destination. This article provides a comprehensive guide covering everything from Snapp!’s registration process to usage flow and important precautions. Please use this as a reference to make your transportation in Iran smooth and hassle-free.
What is Snapp!?
Snapp! is a ride-hailing service originating from Iran, widely popular locally as “Iran’s Uber.” Established in 2014, it now operates in major cities throughout Iran. It’s a system where regular drivers use their private cars to transport passengers, with fares presented in advance, eliminating worries about overcharging and making it very convenient for travelers. The app supports both Persian and English and uses location services to find the nearest driver.
Foreigners Face Registration Challenges
However, the initial barrier to using Snapp! is that you cannot register without an Iranian phone number. This means that even if you install the app before entering Iran, you won’t be able to actually use it until you arrive in Iran and purchase a SIM card.
While it’s relatively easy to purchase a local SIM card in Iran, you’ll need to complete procedures at airports or mobile phone shops in the city. Once you obtain a SIM card, proceed immediately with Snapp! registration.
Installation and Registration Method
Let’s look at the specific usage process.
First, since Snapp is not available on general app stores, you need to download the APK file directly from the official website (snapp.ir) and install it manually.
Once you obtain a SIM card, open the app and tap “Register.” Enter your Iranian phone number and input the verification code sent via SMS. After entering personal information such as your name, registration is complete.
Ride Request Process
Enter Departure and Destination
Click Snapp at the bottom left
From the app’s home menu, open the “Snapp” submenu, where you’ll first specify your departure point, then your destination. Tap the search bar to enter an address or location name. The departure point automatically selects your current location, but you can change it if necessary.
Enter departure and destination in order
Price and Vehicle Type Options
Once you set your destination, available vehicle types and estimated fares are displayed. Generally, selecting “Eco” is the most economical option. Prices are displayed in Iranian Rial, but due to high currency volatility, information found on Google and other sources is often unreliable. For detailed conversion information, please refer to previous articles.
Execute Request Snapp
After selecting your preferred vehicle type, tap the “Request Snapp” button to request a ride. The screen will then switch to show the driver search in progress.
Here, especially if you’re in a hurry or if it’s difficult to find a driver, utilize the “Priority Offering” option. The fare increases slightly, but it’s usually only a difference of several cents, so feel free to use it when you want to prioritize time.
The Priority option only costs several cents more, so it’s worth using actively
Post-Booking Process
Once the ride is confirmed, the driver’s current location and estimated arrival time are displayed on the map.
At this point, it’s important to tap the “Pay” button and select your payment method. You can choose between “Online Payment” or “Cash,” but since most foreign travelers don’t have Iranian credit cards, selecting “Cash” is typical.
Online payment is also available if you have a prepaid card
Communication Features
The app includes a chat function for communicating with drivers, allowing you to explain detailed meeting locations or communicate when issues like road closures occur. However, communication is primarily in Persian, so I recommend downloading a translation app beforehand. Drivers may also call you directly, so be prepared to use translation apps in those situations as well.
From Boarding to Payment
Once you successfully meet the driver, board the vehicle. Upon reaching your destination, pay the amount shown in the app in cash and exit. When the entire process is complete, a driver rating screen appears. I recommend providing a rating to help improve the service.
This covers the basic usage procedure for Snapp.
Important Precautions
As we’ve seen above, the usage is quite straightforward, but there are some things to note for trouble prevention.
Rides Aren’t Always Available Immediately
In urban areas, you generally won’t wait long, but depending on location and time of day, cars can be difficult to find. Particularly in suburban areas, popular tourist destinations, and during peak hours, ride requests may take time. In such cases, consider hailing a regular taxi, though it will be slightly more expensive.
Communication Can Be Challenging
The chat function mentioned earlier currently doesn’t have automatic translation capabilities. Therefore, you must use other apps simultaneously to translate Persian text. Additionally, if you seem confused by messages or calls from drivers requiring Persian communication, your ride may be cancelled. It’s important to become familiar with using translation apps so you can respond quickly.
Vehicle Access Restrictions
Iranian cities have areas where general vehicle access is restricted, and drivers may not be able to approach your destination or departure point. In such cases, you may need to walk to a nearby accessible location. Checking maps beforehand provides peace of mind.
Conclusion
Snapp! is a powerful tool that significantly improves transportation convenience in Iran. With advance fare information and minimal language barriers, it’s extremely useful for travelers. While the initial hurdle of needing an Iranian phone number exists, once registered, it should greatly reduce transportation anxiety during your Iran stay. By preparing translation apps for Persian communication and allowing extra time for your journeys, you can master Snapp! and make your Iran travels more comfortable. Experience Iran’s daily life more deeply by traveling like the locals do!
