Getting from point A to point B in Dubai is a breeze, thanks to an extensive and efficient fleet of taxis. You won’t have to wait long to flag one down; simply use your smartphone to connect with the appropriate app, and you’ll be on your way in no time. While a recent viral video humorously suggested the possibility of hailing an “Uber Camel,” the reality is a bit more mundane but certainly much faster. The video, which depicts a woman stranded in the Dubai desert attempting to summon a camel via an app, is a comedic sketch. Uber has confirmed that this is purely fictional and has no plans to introduce camels into their lineup.
Instead, the options for transportation in Dubai include the RTA’s original Dubai Taxi service, which remains one of the most economical choices, alongside international ride-hailing services like Yango, Uber (without any camels), and Careem. Additionally, the Bolt app is set to launch in the emirate by the end of 2024. There are also dedicated taxis available at Dubai Airports, making travel even more convenient. Below is everything you need to know about getting taxis in Dubai, including how to book them and what the costs entail.
Taxis in Dubai and Ride-Hailing Apps
Blacklane
Chauffeur service Blacklane offers premium rides from Dubai Airport into the city. You can easily book your ride through their mobile app, and the chauffeur will wait for you for up to one hour without any extra charges.
How to book: Via their website.
Pricing: Varies based on the car type and distance.
Visit: blacklane.com
Careem
For those looking to use taxis in Dubai, downloading the Careem app is essential. This app allows you to select from a variety of vehicles, book a Hala Taxi for travel within Dubai, or even arrange inter-city trips between the Emirates.
How to book: Available on both Android and iOS.
Pricing: Includes a starting fee, per kilometer rate, and potential waiting time. The total cost will depend on the vehicle type and distance traveled.
Visit: careem.com
Dubai Taxi Corporation
Look for the red-roofed taxis, which belong to the Dubai Taxi Corporation. You can either hail these cabs on the street or book them in advance. This is the only taxi service in Dubai that allows you to flag down a car directly (be mindful of peak hours and driver changeover times, which can impact availability).
How to book: Contact the dispatch center at 800 880 88 or use the DTC mobile app.
Pricing: The meter starts at Dhs5 from 6 AM to 10 PM, and Dhs5.5 from 10 PM to 6 AM, with a rate of Dhs2.19 per km.
Call: Dubai Taxi Corporation (800 880 88)
Hala Taxi
Hala Taxi is one of the most budget-friendly taxi options in Dubai, listed within the Careem app. You can specify your pick-up and drop-off locations and choose between a car or van.
How to book: Select the “Hala Taxi” option in the Careem app on either platform.
Pricing: Dhs8 starting fee, Dhs12 minimum fare, and Dhs1.91 per km.
Visit: halaride.com
Uber
Uber is a household name and operates in 10,000 cities across 71 countries, including Dubai. You can enter your destination, receive an estimated cost before confirming your ride, and even book rides up to 30 days in advance.
How to book: Available on Android and iOS.
Pricing: Uber typically offers flat rates, making it a potentially economical choice for longer journeys.
Visit: uber.com
XXRIDE
XXRIDE is a new cab service that has recently received a license to operate in Dubai. This global service allows users to utilize ridesharing and ride-hailing options.
How to book: Available on Android and iOS.
Pricing: Charges include a starting fee, per kilometer rate, and waiting time, with total costs depending on vehicle choice and distance.
Contact: XXRIDE, @xxride_official (04 295 9942)
Yango
Yango may be relatively new in Dubai, but it has established itself in over a dozen countries worldwide. This ride-hailing service boasts features like booking multiple cars on one phone and finding alternate pick-up points to optimize travel time and cost. The vehicles offered are comparable to other ride-hailing services, including luxury options like the Lexus ES.
How to book: Available on Android and iOS.
Pricing: Includes starting fees, per kilometer rates, and waiting time, with the final cost depending on vehicle choice and distance.
Visit: yango.com
Coming Soon: Drife
(Credit: CanvaPro) A new ride-hailing app named Drife is set to launch soon, promising to make taxi rides in Dubai more affordable. This system will allow drivers to set standard fares or offer discounts and premium pricing. Initial rollout will feature around 100 limousines, with plans to include RTA taxis soon.
How to book: Through the Drife mobile app.
Pricing: Costs will depend on vehicle choice, distance, and starting points set by the driver.
Getting a Taxi from Dubai International Airport
Dubai International Airport (DXB) has a dedicated fleet of taxis, making it easy to grab a ride upon arrival. Each terminal has a taxi rank, with taxis available 24/7. The meter starts at Dhs25 (a standardized airport pick-up fee) for rides from Dubai Airport into the city, and fares thereafter are Dhs1.96 per kilometer. If you prefer, you can also hail an Uber through the app, selecting your pick-up point based on the terminal you are in.
Traveling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
A taxi ride from Dubai to Abu Dhabi typically costs between Dhs250 and Dhs300 for a one-way trip. You can either flag down a taxi on the street or order one via the Careem app.
Where to Go in That Taxi…
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