Dubai taxi ride-sharing trial expands with new airport and city routes
New routes to be introduced for six months across the emirate
DUBAI – Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is preparing to expand its taxi ride-sharing service for a six-month trial, widening the scope of a scheme that has seen strong demand since its launch last year.
The service initially connected Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai with Al Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi, offering passengers a fast and cost-effective alternative for inter-emirate travel. Its popularity has grown across diverse user groups, prompting RTA to broaden the pilot to additional locations across Dubai.
Adel Shakri, Director of Planning and Business Development at RTA’s Public Transport Agency, confirmed that ridership on the Dubai-Abu Dhabi shared taxi service has surged by 228% since last year. He said the exceptional demand encouraged RTA to introduce new trial routes linking Al Maktoum International Airport with Dubai Marina Mall, Business Bay Metro Station and Palm Jumeirah – Atlantis Monorail Station. Dubai World Trade Centre will also be added as a starting point for shared taxi trips to Business Bay Metro Station, Al Satwa Bus Station and Dubai Marina Mall.
Purpose of new routes
According to Shakri, the expansion follows extensive field studies and route assessments designed to identify areas with high potential demand. The purpose of the new routes is to reduce fare costs for riders and provide a more affordable travel option for those who rely on taxis within the city. The expanded pilot aims to support RTA’s wider transport strategy by improving access to shared mobility solutions.
Reduced congestion
One of the initiative’s key goals is to help ease traffic congestion by enabling multiple passengers to share a single taxi. This model supports smoother traffic flow while delivering environmental benefits by lowering the carbon footprint per trip. RTA officials noted that shared taxis also play a role in limiting unlicensed transport activity across the emirate.
Enhanced safety
The shared-taxi vehicles used for the service are fitted with passenger-safety features, including cameras connected to the Operations Control Centre and additional systems that monitor driver performance. These measures ensure safe, smooth and reliable mobility while maintaining RTA’s operational standards.