Introduction
Being able to get a taxi with a reasonable price is an important part of the trip in any country. Uber is an international ride-hailing app, but it’s not working in Iran. Iran has developed its own ride-hailing apps called Snapp & Tapsi.
Snapp and Tapsi offer convenient transportation for tourists, but there are some important things, like language, payment, phone numbers, and account registration, every tourist needs to understand before using these apps.
What Are Snapp & Tapsi?
Snapp & Tapsi are similar to Uber. You need a smartphone to request a ride, choose your destination, and see the estimated fare, and you will be matched with a driver.
Can Tourists Use Snapp & Tapsi?
Yes! Tourists can use ride-hailing apps in Iran. Although it’s a little bit different to set up an account on these apps than using Uber.
The biggest issue is registration and payment.
Because of international banking restrictions and sanctions imposed on Iran, you cannot use your Visa and Mastercard cards while in Iran. So, tourists won’t be able to add their foreign bank cards to Snapp & Tapsi for the payment.
How to pay Snapp & Tapsi?
The practical option is to use cash in Iranian rials/tomans. Even if you have an Iranian travel credit card, it is better to pay in cash.
Important: Iranian prices can be confusing, as the app and most Iranian locals use Toman, but the currency is in Rial. To read more about Iranian currency, see Toman vs. Rial Explained – A Simple Guide to Iran’s Currency.
Do You Need an Iranian SIM Card?
Having an Iranian SIM card is essential. By getting a local SIM card you will be able to:
- Register for ride-hailing apps
- Receive verification SMS messages
- Communicate with your driver
- Use mobile internet while traveling.
- Contact your driver if you cannot find the pickup point.
For long trips, getting an Iranian SIM card can help you a lot. To read more about Iranian SIM cards, see Iran SIM Card & eSIM Guide (2026) Best Options for Tourists.
How to set up an account on Snapp & Tapsi?
Setting up an account is quite easy, as both apps support English. All you need to do is to choose English when entering the apps and type in your Iranian phone number.
How to Order a Snapp or Tapsi Ride?
The process is quite similar to Uber.
- Open the app.
- Select your location
- Enter your destination.
- Select the type of ride.
- Check the estimated fare.
- Confirm your pickup location.
- Wait for your driver.
- Check the vehicle and license plate before getting in.
- Pay according to the selected payment method.
Finding Your Driver
Finding your driver can be a little bit difficult for international passengers. The driver might call you after accepting the ride, but there is a chance they cannot communicate in English. If the driver calls, you can tell him/her, “Farsi Balad Nistam,” meaning I don’t know Farsi. To know more about Farsi words, see Essential Farsi Phrases.
Before ordering, make sure you have selected your pickup location correctly.
Are Snapp & Tapsi Safe for Tourists?
Although ride-hailing is a practical way to travel around cities, tourists need to use the same precautions as any other taxi service, including:
- Confirm the license plate and vehicle before entering.
- Make sure the driver and vehicle match the information shown in the app.
- Avoid getting into a different vehicle simply because someone claims to be your driver.
- Share your trip details with a travel companion when possible.
- Keep your phone charged.
License plate numbers are in Persian numerals. To know more about numbers in Iran, see Numbers in Iran – A Traveler’s Guide to Persian Numerals.
Snapp & Tapsi vs. Street Taxis
Ride-hailing has an important advantage when you are traveling to another country. With a taxi, there is a chance to encounter a language barrier. On the other hand, you can see the fare before accepting the ride with ride-hailing apps.
Can You Use Snapp & Tapsi at Iranian Airports?
Yes! But it needs a little bit of preparations. Unlike airport taxis, which are right outside of the terminal, you may find restrictions or designated pickup areas for app-based taxis. There is nothing to worry about when it comes to using ride-hailing apps when at the airport. You simply have to get past the lane for taxis and get on your ride.
If you’re arriving at Imam Khomeini International Airport, check the pickup instructions in the app and follow airport signs.
Snapp & Tapsi for Intercity Travel
Although both apps are designed for urban transportation, you can use them to travel to other parts of Iran as well. It is not recommended for tourists to use these apps for intercity travels. Some of the major sightseeing spots in Iran are on the road, and using these apps is not convenient.
Having a private driver can be much easier when traveling between cities compared to ordering multiple ride-hailing trips.
Practical Tips for Foreign Travelers
Download the apps before your trip
Make sure to download both apps before traveling to Iran. App-store availability and account verification can sometimes be more complicated once you’re traveling.
Get a local SIM
An Iranian SIM card can make registration and communicating with the driver much easier.
Keep cash
You won’t be able to use your international bank cards. Always keep some Iranian cash with you.
Learn a few Persian phrases
Being able to communicate with your driver can make the ride much easier. Even the most basic words can be useful.
- سلام (Salâm) — Hello
- ممنون (Mamnun) — Thank you
- اینجا (Injâ) — Here
- لطفاً صبر کنید (Lotfan sabr konid) — Please wait
- چقدر؟ (Cheghadr?) — How much?
FAQ
Is Snapp & Tapsi available for tourists in Iran?
Yes! Although registration, phone-number verification, and payment can present challenges.
Which is better, Snapp or Tapsi?
Snapp is the dominant app and has a better English UI as well.
Can I pay with a foreign credit card?
No! Because of international banking restrictions and sanctions imposed on Iran, you cannot use your international bank cards.
Do I need an Iranian phone number?
Yes! You need to have an Iranian phone number for registration.
Is Snapp cheaper than taxis?
Prices vary by route, demand, and time, but Snapp is always cheaper and more straightforward than a taxi.
Can I use Snapp without speaking Persian?
Yes! But you might face a language barrier.
