O Female: Empowering Omani Women through Innovative Transportation Services
In 2022, O Taxi took a groundbreaking step in Oman’s transportation industry by introducing O Female, a taxi service exclusively for female drivers. This initiative has rapidly gained popularity, particularly in Muscat, Sohar, and Salalah, offering a safe and convenient transport option for female passengers. O Female has also opened up significant employment opportunities for Omani women, allowing them to achieve financial independence and pursue stable income sources.
The introduction of O Female has been a game-changer for many Omani women, providing them with the chance to enter the workforce and earn a reliable income. For women who may not have had access to higher education opportunities, this initiative serves as a valuable employment avenue that enables them to support their families, continue their studies, or contribute to household income. The flexibility of working hours also allows many women to take on additional sources of income and balance them with other commitments.
The drivers of O Female, all Omani women, gather weekly at the company’s office in Ghala to discuss work-related matters and receive guidance from a supportive team of Omani female leaders. This sense of community fosters a supportive environment where challenges are addressed swiftly. The drivers express their satisfaction with the job, highlighting the minimum salary of OMR200 per month and the potential to earn up to OMR500 through commissions from trips. They also appreciate the flexibility and safety that O Female provides, making it a fulfilling and rewarding career choice.
The service has attracted a diverse range of Omani women, including highly qualified professionals who work part-time as drivers. The broad appeal and flexibility of O Female are evident in the case of a young medical doctor who drives in the evenings. This diversity showcases the inclusive nature of the service and the opportunities it offers to women from various professional backgrounds. The presence of strong leadership among Omani women within the company ensures that drivers receive consistent support in their roles, enhancing their overall experience and job satisfaction.
At the core of O Female’s success is the leadership provided by CEO Harith Al Maqbali, an engineer with a background in Petroleum Development Oman. Since its inception in 2014, O Taxi has been driven by Al Maqbali’s vision of reliability and prompt service, with O Female continuing this legacy by not only offering transportation services but also empowering Omani women. The success of O Female is a testament to the transformative impact that innovative transportation services can have on women’s lives, creating opportunities for financial independence, career growth, and personal fulfillment.
