Page 179 - SALIK PR REPORT JANUARY 2024

Khaleej Times is breaking down the changes to keep the public informed.

What is the new flag-down rate for Dubai taxis?

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?
Dynamic pricing is not new and it has always been applied by taxi companies. Taxi
rates in Dubai is based on the taxi type, pick-up time and location, trip duration and

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/hi/life-and-living/public-transport-in-uae/dubai-changes-in-taxi-fare-nol-
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