Page 175 - SALIK PR REPORT JANUARY 2024

1/10/24, 10:50 AM Dubai: Changes in taxi fare, nol card top-ups; new parking company explained
The flag-down or flagfall rate (the initial charge incurred at the start of a taxi journey), has gone up from
Dh12 to Dh20 in some pick-up areas at certain times during major events.

The taxi fare hike is not city-wide. According to RTA, the introduction of new flag down rates for both
regular-metered taxis and Hala Taxi service will be applicable only during major event days, exhibitions

and international conventions at locations including World Trade Centre, Expo City, and Global Village.

This was implemented during last New Year’s Eve and only at certain locations where there were
fireworks displays, including Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Hatta, Al Seef, Bluewaters, The
Beach, and Global Village.

How does it work?

If there are major events, exhibitions or international conventions at World Trade Centre or Expo City,
the flagfall rate – if you start your journey from those areas – is Dh20. If there are no events, taxi fare will
start at Dh12.

Same rates apply when you book a taxi from Global Village. Because it’s open for the current season,
flag-down rate is Dh20; then it reverts to Dh12 when it is closed during summer months.

There is, however, no increase in the flag-down rate when you book a taxi anywhere aside from the

above-mentioned places. Meaning, flag-down rate for passengers who will be picked up from Mall of the
Emirates or Times Square, Deira City Centre, or their place of work or residence, will still be Dh12.

Why do fares fluctuate?

It’s actually called 'dynamic pricing' – fare fluctuates based on demand. This usually happens during

rush hour when more people are on the road and there is high demand for transportation. More
passengers means more traffic and the fare goes up to compensate for the time and petrol (or electricity
for electric vehicles) that will be used to transport people. The fare increase, however, is temporary.
Fares are cheaper during the day when there is less demand.

According to RTA, the introduction of new flag down rates for both regular-metered taxis and Hala Taxi

service is applicable during major event days, exhibitions and international conventions at locations
including Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), Expo City and Global Village.

“Through these changes, (we aim) to continuously improve and develop both regular taxi services and
the e-hail ride of Hala Taxi, especially during major events which typically see a significant increase in

demand for taxi services from residents, visitors, and tourists travelling to Dubai from all over the world,”
the RTA said in an earlier statement.

Is dynamic pricing new?

https://www.zawya.com/en/legal/regulations/dubai-changes-in-taxi-fare-nol-card-top-ups-new-parking-company-explained-s6h7alv7 2/5