How to Use Didi in China as a Foreigner (2026)
Short answer: Didi is China’s Uber (Uber and Grab don’t operate in mainland China). The easiest way for visitors is to open Didi inside Alipay — no new account, and it charges the foreign card you’ve already linked. You can also use the DiDi app in English with an international phone number. Rides are cashless.
Two ways to use Didi
Section titled “Two ways to use Didi”| Didi inside Alipay (recommended) | DiDi app | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | None if Alipay is set up | Register with international number |
| Payment | Your Alipay-linked card | Link Visa/Mastercard in the app wallet |
| English | ✅ | ✅ (choose English in settings) |
| Stability | Generally more reliable | Occasional network errors |
In Alipay: search “Didi” in the Alipay home screen, open the mini program, allow location, and book.
Booking a ride
Section titled “Booking a ride”- Enter your destination in English, pinyin, or paste the Chinese address (best — copy it from your hotel booking).
- Check the pickup point. Didi suggests a green pickup dot; walk there. You can drag it to a legal stopping spot.
- Choose a car type (Express is the standard option) and confirm.
- Match the plate number before getting in.
- Pay automatically at the end of the trip.
Airports and train stations
Section titled “Airports and train stations”Pickups are only allowed in designated ride-hailing zones, often in a parking garage. Follow signs for 网约车 (ride-hailing) and order once you’re there.
Talking to the driver
Section titled “Talking to the driver”- Use the in-app chat — messages are auto-translated.
- Send a photo of a landmark if the driver can’t find you.
- If you don’t speak Chinese, it’s fine to not answer calls and reply in chat instead.
Common problems
Section titled “Common problems”| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| “Network error” | Switch Wi-Fi off and use mobile data; turn off any VPN |
| Payment failed | Approve the charge with your bank, try another card, or book through Alipay |
| Long waits at rush hour | Use the metro (pay with Alipay’s transport QR code) |
| Driver can’t find you | Move to the green dot, send a photo, use chat |
Can I pay Didi in cash?
Section titled “Can I pay Didi in cash?”No. Didi is cashless — use Alipay, WeChat Pay or a linked card.
Do I need a Chinese phone number?
Section titled “Do I need a Chinese phone number?”No, an international number works. A local number helps drivers reach you, but chat usually solves that.
Is Didi safe?
Section titled “Is Didi safe?”Didi shows the driver’s name, photo and plate number, and has an in-app emergency button. Share your trip with a friend from the app if you like.
Sources: Wander in China — Didi guide (Feb 2026); Didi app help pages. Features change — check in the app.