In the latest sign that tech and travel are rapidly converging, US rideshare giant Uber is now recruiting travel agents to help train its new AI model.
Just six months after launching a dedicated AI business unit, Uber has begun seeking travel specialists to support its generative AI training efforts. A recent LinkedIn job posting called for experienced candidates for a three-month project, with Skift reporting that Uber is specifically targeting “travel agents, destination planners, and logistics experts” to help shape the model.
Uber – already a staple for airport transfers and on-the-ground mobility – has been steadily deepening its footprint in the travel ecosystem. While the travel-expert roles are currently limited to US applicants, the move reflects a broader strategy to integrate more deeply with airlines, OTAs, and the wider tourism sector.
Earlier this year, Uber partnered with Riyadh Air to build seamless ground transport and flight-booking functionality into the airline’s mobile app. The company also pushed ahead with kerbside pickup at Sydney International Airport in September 2024, despite strong opposition from local taxi drivers.
And speculation continues to swirl: in October last year, industry chatter suggested Uber may be eyeing a potential acquisition of travel OTA Expedia – a rumour that, while unconfirmed, underscores just how aggressively the brand is positioning itself within travel.
