Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the expansion of its taxi ride-sharing service for a six-month trial period, following the strong success the initiative achieved since its launch last year between Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai and Al Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi. The service recorded significant public interest as an affordable, fast, and convenient transportation option.

Adel Shakri, Director of Planning and Business Development at the Public Transport Agency, revealed that the service recorded an impressive 228% growth in the number of riders since its introduction. This remarkable increase encouraged the RTA to broaden the trial to include additional strategic locations across the emirate.

The upcoming expansion will cover routes from Al Maktoum International Airport to Dubai Marina Mall, Business Bay Metro Station, and Palm Jumeirah – Atlantis Monorail Station, as well as routes from Dubai World Trade Centre to Business Bay Metro Station, Al Satwa Bus Station, and Dubai Marina Mall.

Shakri explained that the selection of new locations was based on field studies and practical route analysis, aimed at reducing fare costs for riders, especially those who rely heavily on shared taxi mobility within the emirate.

The RTA emphasized that the initiative supports Dubai’s efforts to reduce traffic congestion and enhance road traffic flow, by enabling multiple passengers to share one taxi.

This approach contributes to lowering the carbon footprint, limiting unauthorized transport practices, and offering a safer and more comfortable travel experience.

The participating taxis are equipped with cameras connected to the RTA’s operations control center, along with systems to monitor driver performance and ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability.