Dubai’s taxi sector has seen significant growth in the first six months of 2024, with an increase of 400,000 trips compared to the same period last year. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) reported a total of 55.7 million journeys made from January to June this year, up from 55.3 million in the first half of 2023. Passenger numbers also rose from 96.2 million to 96.9 million in 2024, highlighting the increasing demand for taxi services in the city.
The number of taxi drivers has also increased from 26,000 in 2023 to 30,000 currently. Additionally, the total number of taxis in operation during the first half of 2024 reached 12,778, which is 644 more than the same period in 2023. Adel Shakri, director of Planning and Business Development at RTA’s Public Transport Agency, attributed this growth to the success of the e-hail service provided by Hala Taxi. E-bookings accounted for 40% of the total number of taxi journeys in Dubai during the first half of 2024, reflecting a 5% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Moreover, 76% of Hala journeys had an average vehicle arrival time of less than 3.5 minutes in the first half of 2024, surpassing the 73% rate achieved in the same period last year. This improvement in efficiency and response time demonstrates the taxi sector’s commitment to meeting customer needs and providing a seamless experience for passengers. With the ongoing advancements in technology and the popularity of e-hailing services, Dubai’s taxi sector is poised for continued growth in the coming years.
As the demand for taxi services in Dubai continues to rise, the RTA is focused on enhancing the overall customer experience and ensuring the efficiency of the taxi sector. By incorporating technology-driven solutions such as e-hailing services and e-bookings, the RTA aims to improve service quality and make taxi travel more convenient for residents and tourists in the city. The increase in the number of taxi drivers and vehicles on the road also contributes to better availability and shorter waiting times for passengers, further enhancing the overall transportation experience in Dubai.
The growth of the taxi sector in Dubai is a positive sign of the city’s economic development and increasing tourism numbers. With more people choosing taxis as a convenient and reliable mode of transportation, the industry plays a crucial role in supporting the city’s infrastructure and economy. As Dubai continues to position itself as a global hub for business and tourism, the efficient functioning of the taxi sector is essential in meeting the diverse transportation needs of residents and visitors alike.
In conclusion, the rise in taxi trips and passenger numbers in Dubai’s taxi sector highlights the sector’s resilience and adaptability in meeting the evolving needs of the city’s population. With a focus on technology-driven solutions and customer-centric services, the RTA is driving the growth and efficiency of the taxi sector, making it a vital component of Dubai’s transportation network. As the city continues to grow and evolve, the taxi sector is well-positioned to meet the increasing demand for convenient and reliable transportation services, contributing to Dubai’s status as a global destination for business and tourism.
