The Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai (RTA) has confirmed the extension of its new ride-sharing service for a six-month pilot period.

According to a statement issued by the RTA, the trial is scheduled to begin soon, following the success of the initiative since its launch last year from Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai to Al Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi.

The new service has seen significant public interest from various segments of society, as it offers an easy, fast, and affordable means of transportation.

In a related context, Mr. Adel Shakri, Director of Planning and Business Development at the RTA’s Public Transport Agency, explained that the new service has achieved a 228% growth in ridership since its launch last year.

He added that those who used it to travel between the two emirates encouraged us to expand its scope experimentally to include two additional locations: Al Maktoum International Airport and from there to Dubai Marina Mall, Business Bay Metro Station and Palm Jumeirah Island, Atlantis Monorail Station, and from Dubai World Trade Centre to Business Bay Metro Station, Al Satwa Bus Station and Dubai Marina Mall.

Shakri noted, "The inclusion of new locations on a trial basis follows field research and practical examination of prospective routes for the emirate's shared taxi service.

The goal is to cut fares for travelers, particularly those who utilize this mode of transportation. 

The highways and Transport Authority (RTA) hopes that this effort will help to reduce traffic congestion on highways and streets by encouraging passengers to share one cab.

 This will enhance traffic flow and provide several environmental advantages, such as lowering the carbon impact and eliminating unlicensed transportation.

Furthermore, travelers will enjoy secure, smooth, and comfortable riding in RTA taxis, which are outfitted with amenities that improve passenger pleasure and safety.

These features include cameras linked to the operations control center, as well as cameras that monitor and track driver performance.